New Year Gumbo from My New Orleans

New Year Gumbo If you’re looking for real cooking from a solid chef, you’ll appreciate the recipes in My New Orleans from Chef John Besh. The colossal cook book landed on our new doorstep in October and flashed a familiar return address – our former residence in Austin that we left behind in 2011. The […]

93-year-old grandma cooks up happy holiday gram

We won’t mention any names, lest we spoil the surprise of those who may find one of these recipe grams in their Christmas stockings this year. The Cookery likes this gift idea created by a 93-year-old grandmother who boasts dozens of grandchildren and great-grands. She’s sure to bring out the spirit of giving with this personal gift. […]

Ridiculously rich recipe

Jane Manaster shares a little festive fudge with us at The Cookery. Here’s a word from Jane . . . In England ‘fudge’ doesn’t imply chocolate. Here’s a ridiculously rich recipe known variously as ‘Grandma’s Fudge’ and Auntie Lily’s Fudge – they were sisters! 1/2 lb. butter (not margarine) 2 lbs. (4 C) white sugar […]

Never let gifts of food be returned to sender

Have you moved during the past year? Friends and family may be trying to send greetings in the way of festive food packages. I encourage you to update your address for their benefit and yours. We’re a little remiss in updating ours, but we’re rejoicing this week as our favorite gift of food found us. […]

Get fresh around the table

If you can’t walk the woods and gather fresh pine cones to get fresh around the table, freshen it up with cranberries. Add berries to candle holders, glass compotes, or your favorite crystal stemware. Get really fresh and embellish with a spray of evergreen, oranges and cloves.

Berry good grits

Cranberries earn their place at the table in November, but don’t restrict them to the Thanksgiving bird. Dress up grits instead and savor a sweet-tart burst over a mountain of cheesy bliss. Boost your intake of fruit for the day with a healthy antioxidant kick. Here’s what you’ll need to showcase your cranberries with grits: […]

Pumpkin-spittin’ image

It’s quick and easy to spit out those pumpkin seeds once you’ve carved up the pumpkins, but keep your pumpkin-spittin’ image in check. Roast on and repurpose those pumpkin seeds. Test The Cookery’s best pumpkin seed tip.

Packin’ up the chuck box

Welcome to The Cookery, a space to digest life, explore food and keep it real, to read, and to write. I’m writing from another new kitchen, and our family has made the way from Texas to New York. After packing up May 31, we bounced around the country and lived out of suitcases for four […]

Dodge cholesterol and keep a distance

Designating a month for causes must be getting someone’s attention, and if that’s what it takes to turn heads to healthy living, I’m flying the flag for Cholesterol Awareness Month. Give yourself or someone you love some space from bad cholesterol and keep the distance. It seems as if we should all know by now […]

MyTown Marketplace opens in Highland Falls

Hudson Valley residents in and around the village of Highland Falls don’t have a wealth of shopping options when it comes to food, but someone’s getting the party started. Here’s to what MyTown Marketplace is: Now Open. Fresh. Food. Daily.