Luben’s perfect chicken

Some years ago my dear friend Luben was visiting from NYC, and he offered to cook “the perfect chicken” that he had mastered from the NY Times (I think). Еver since, when we make roast chicken at home, it is referred to as “Luben’s perfect chicken”.

Truffled mac & cheese

This piece of Americana gets a sophisticated upgrade with the addition of truffles. Recipe is courtesy of my friends at Truffle Shuffle. You can watch the entire cooking class on their web site. Mac & cheese may be kids food, but save this one for yourself!

Miso glazed black cod with bok choy

Miso glazed black cod is a signature dish at many Southeast Asian restaurants. Black cod is one of my favorite types of fish – it is delicate, flakey and delicious. Check out the other black cod recipes: Black cod over tomato-saffron risotto and Black cod with caramelized fennel and Manila clams in tomato-fennel-saffron broth.

Curried cauliflower

Cauliflower is one of the most under-appreciated vegetables.  It is great sautéed or roasted, and is a great vehicle for pungent spices and strong flavors – like curry. 

Mushroom Stew

This mushroom stew is very much the vegetarian equivalent of beef bourguignon. Gather whatever medley of mushrooms you can find + a bottle of cheap red wine = delicious dinner. I served it over creamy polenta (found in the Squab glazed with port reduction with creamy polenta recipe)

Risotto with English Peas

As I promised in the original risotto post the possibilities are endless.  And English peas are one of my favorite ingredients – a great way to celebrate spring.

Endive and pear salad with pecans and blue cheese

May be the only upshot of being stuck at home during the coronavirus pandemic is the opportunity to cook more at home. We were supposed to have a dinner party last night which didn’t happen but we still decided to dine in style.