Posts From Amanda
Chef Notes: Dried Beans
Being a good southern girl, I’ve eaten my share of dried beans. Back in the day they were a staple of all working class southern families. They’re healthy, simple to
Chef Notes: The Art of Risotto
I love a good risotto. It can be a an appetizer, a side dish or a main dish. It’s so versatile yet we treat it like a special occasion dish.
Chef Notes: Smoking Made Easy Peasy
Just the idea of smoked food gets my mouth watering. Who doesn’t love smoked oysters, smoked turkey breast, or smoked beef brisket? It’s one of the oldest ways of preserving
Chef Notes: Mussels
I came to love mussels when I moved to New England. I started slowly, first I would only sop up whatever buttery, garlicky broth was left after my fiancé Al
Chef Notes: Getting Saucy with Simple Syrups
For some reason, the term “simple syrup” doesn’t sound so simple. If it’s so simple why must I pay $7 or more for a cup of the sweet juice stashed
Chef Notes: The Salt Diaries
I love salt. I know it’s not good for you, particularly if you have high blood pressure, and it should be used judiciously and in moderation. However, it is the
Chef Notes: Amanda’s Secret Staple
I had never heard of quinoa until culinary school. It’s not something you see in your grandmother’s pantry in Alabama. And honestly, the first time or two I had it
Chef Notes: Amanda’s Homemade Ricotta
I was reminded of how wonderful homemade ricotta cheese is while at a friend’s party this weekend. Jeff’s parties are famous for many things and the pot-luck dishes are at
Chef Notes: What’s better? All-purpose or Self-Rising Flour?
My mother and I have a running battle over which type of flour is better as a pantry staple; all purpose, or plain, or self rising. A/P flour is exactly
Chef Notes: The Art of the Stock
Chef Amanda is back with her fast and easy way to make homemade stocks. Yes, you heard me: stocks. Sounds scary, I know. But, thankfully, we have Amanda to make
