La Mesa Mexicana: The Food of Mexico, written by Rosa Cienfuegos, features an incredible assortment of regional recipes from across Mexico alongside beautiful writing and captivating photography. A few highlights include Maizduros (Corn Cookies), Jaibas Rellenas (Stuffed Crabs), Pacholas (Thin Beef Patties), Corundas de Queso (Cheese Triangle Tamales), and Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza (Zucchini…
A recipe for Australian Damper! This easy quick bread comes together with simply self-rising flour, water, optionally milk, and butter. I first came across the inspiration for this Australian Damper recipe over on Manu’s Menu as a way to use up some self-rising flour before our move. Damper is an Australian quick bread traditionally made…
Korean Banchan Recipes: 100 Authentic Side Dishes from Japchae and Jeon to Kimchi and Namul, written by Nobuko Kitasaka, features a vibrant assortment of Korean sides and small plates for the home cook. A few highlights include Whole Garlic Jangajji, Spicy Mixed Octopus and Spinach, Carrot Namul, Water Kimchi with Citrus, and Shredded Sweet Potato…
A recipe for Adobong Baboy (Filipino Pork Adobo)! Pieces of pork belly are slowly simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices until tender. This Adobong Baboy (Filipino Pork Adobo) is such a comforting meal and it comes together all in one pot with minimal prep. There are many variations in the exact cooking style and…
Gennaro’s Hidden Italy: Regional Recipes to Treasure for Generations, written by Gennaro Contaldo, features a beautiful collection of historical and lesser known dishes from across Italy. A few highlights include Suricitti Marchigiani (Polenta Dumplings with Sausage and Broccoli), Crostata di Ricotta e Visciole (Ricotta and Cherry Tart), Pane Squarato (Aniseed Bread), Pasticcio di Pasta alla…
A recipe for Salzburger Nockerl inspired by my time in Salzburg, Austria. This souffle-like dessert is formed into three peaks to resemble the mountains surround Salzburg. Last fall, I visited Austria for the first time! I spent a little over a week traveling through Innsbruck, Salzburg, Wolfgangsee, and Linz, then finished with a few days…
The Miso Cookbook: 87 Umami-Rich Recipes Using Japan’s Incredible Probiotic Superfood, written by Misa Enomoto, features a comforting assortment of sweet and savory recipes using homemade or store-bought miso with detailed guides and step-by-step photos. A few highlights include Mushroom Miso Soup, Miso Butter Toast, Miso Chicken Patties, Miso Cheesecake, and Kinako Miso Truffles. I…
A recipe for Encharcada (Portuguese Soaked Eggs)! Threads of egg yolk are simmered in a cinnamon-infused syrup for quite the decadent dessert. I was originally inspired to make Encharcada (Portuguese Soaked Eggs) while reviewing Culina Europe (unfortunately no longer in print) and am updating the recipe today for a smaller serving size and overall less…
The Secret Life of Chocolate Chip Cookies: Exciting New Ways to Enjoy Everyone’s Favorite Dessert, written by Marissa Rothkopf Bates, features a comforting collection of 60 nostalgic and innovative recipes, all inspired by the chocolate chip cookie. A few highlights include Ginger and Rye Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chocolate Chip Cookie Brittle, Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookie…
A recipe for Cherry Blossom Syrup! This Sakura-infused simple syrup has a floral blend of cherry blossom petals, hibiscus, and lemon. I brought back a few packages of salted cherry blossoms during my last visit to Los Angeles/Torrance and saved the last couple for this Cherry Blossom Syrup (桜シロップ). It is such a refreshing springtime…
The Japanese Pantry: From Sake to Soy, Essential Ingredients for Japanese Home Cooking, written by Emiko Davies, showcases Japanese staples alongside traditional and innovative recipes for all seasons and skill levels. A few highlights include Kissaten Fried Eggs (Kissaten no Medamayaki), Hijiki Onigiri, Umeboshi-Braised Chicken (Tori no Umeni), Pressed Sushi with Marinated Mackerel (Shimesaba no…