Backyard Barbeque is Back
For many Americans, a backyard barbeque means hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and beer. Recently in our hometown of Perrysburg, Ohio our friend Haseeb invited us to an American barbeque at his home that is just a little bit different. I learned early on that an offer to have dinner at the Ahmed’s home is not […]
Sensory Pho
Smell the scent of freshly plucked Thai basil, the rich beefy aroma of the gently spiced broth; hear the slurping of noodles and crunching of a crispy spring roll. Eating pho and Vietnamese spring rolls has a ritual surrounding it, elements of seasoning and cooking at the table, and a variety of flavor, texture, and […]
Mad About Mole!
In Chicago, Illinois, Rick Bayless’s restaurants Frontera Grill and Topolobampo serve the highest quality authentic Mexican food in the United States and have long been supporters of sustainability and local agriculture. I had the pleasure of working at these restaurants (they share a single kitchen), during my externship at CIA. My job during the six months […]
What’s Good About Meatloaf?
This American classic has unfortunately suffered from versions which may evoke memories that are less than desirable for the discerning cook. A good meatloaf will be still juicy when cooked, pleasantly textured, and well seasoned. It is served well hot from the oven with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, and is equally as good the next day […]
WD-50: More than Molecular
Molecular gastronomy is the term commonly used to describe the food at WD-50 and other restaurants who use cutting edge techniques and ingredients combined with creative ideas to achieve flavors and textures of food that would otherwise not be possible. WD-50 in New York City is undoubtedly a leader in this field, but, during our […]
Red, White, and Blue Hill
Blue Hill, for me, began in my imagination. I was finishing school at CIA, it was summertime, and the Hudson Valley was at the height of it’s splendor. Cool breezes brushed the tall grasses sent ripples off the river which would shimmer brilliantly in the late afternoon sun. I was in love with the place and […]
Da Bomb!
Bridge and tunnel cops, firemen, paramedics, workers from the industrial area that borders north Astoria in Queens, New York: do want to eat what these guys eat for lunch every day? If the answer is yes, than the Sandwich King of Astoria is the place for you! Maybe it’s because the guy ahead of you is […]