Sweet, sticky red onion chutney spiced for the holidays, served on char-grilled ciabatta and topped with crumbly Gorgonzola. These crostini are an easy, festive appetizer that pairs beautifully with cheese boards and seasonal drinks. I set out to make a crostini that felt festive, pairing the assertive tang of Gorgonzola with a sweet, spiced red … Read more
Torta Barozzi (also known as Torta Nera) is a classic Italian flourless chocolate cake that originates from Vignola in Emilia-Romagna. The original formula from Pasticceria Gollini remains a closely guarded secret, so this is our faithful interpretation. This rich cake combines ground almonds and peanuts with plenty of dark chocolate, a touch of coffee and rum, yielding a dense, fudgy dessert with an intense chocolate flavour.
Quick and easy Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry that’s full of flavor and ready in about 30 minutes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner. This stir fry takes roughly as long to make as it does to cook rice. Start the rice, then prepare the stir fry so everything … Read more
My people, the meeting finally took place, so my ears can rest from “Is the meeting today???” I had a busy weekend preparing to host the traditional meeting for people from Ndop in the North West region of Cameroon, where Mr. N is from. It was a joyful time for me because I love to … Read more
A rich tomato Sausage Ragu tossed with light, pillowy homemade ricotta gnocchi. On chilly nights, nothing beats a big bowl of Italian comfort food. This sausage ragu tastes like it’s been simmering all day but comes together in just over an hour, including the gnocchi. If you want a generous, warming bowl of comfort food, … Read more
Why cook Brussels sprouts in oil when smoky bacon fat adds so much more flavor? This pan-fried Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe makes Brussels sprouts that are golden, tender inside, and loaded with savory, smoky goodness. Ready in about 15 minutes, this simple side dish is perfect for weeknight meals or holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, … Read more
A quick and easy Tuscan bean stew made with Italian sausages, cannellini beans, tomato, sage, and garlic. Hearty, filling and perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. This stew is surprisingly simple because canned cannellini beans are already cooked, so it comes together fast without sacrificing flavor. It’s one of my favourite winter dishes—comforting, … Read more
Soft and chewy Italian Amaretti Cookies, also known as Amaretti Morbidi. These little cookies have a crisp outer shell and a tender, chewy center. They’re naturally gluten-free, simple to prepare and perfect for gifting or serving with coffee. There are two classic versions of amaretti: Amaretti Croccanti – small, crisp cookies that are crunchy throughout … Read more
Last Wednesday I returned to an African church for the first time in many months. I fed and dressed my girls, and we drove to the evening prayer service. I was eager to pray with my fellow Pentecostals and to join the fervent worship I remembered. Finding the venue took some effort. The church sat … Read more
This Chicken and Potatoes recipe makes a comforting, hearty meal that feels like it took hours to prepare but actually requires very little hands-on time. It begins on the stovetop and finishes in the oven, making it a great option for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. This version is similar to a potato hot … Read more