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 […]
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 […]
No-recipe recipe for one hot dish
This no-recipe recipe transforms potatoes into a great hot dish. And as Mama often says, “Honey – There is no recipe!” Hot German Potato Salad . . . just boil some taters (6-8) with the jackets on . . . cool enough to hold and remove skins . . . and slice them into a […]
Farewell food keeps Austin real
When the task turns to hospitality, Texans go the distance. In the midst of prepping for our return journey to New York, friends have shared home-cooked meals around their tables, served brisket from the smoker, and tucked restaurant gift cards into our bags. Thank you for all that, friends! It’s been a fueling farewell of protein-packed plates. Need a few simple but […]
Prep pizza for family appetites
Pizza prep invites the whole family to pitch in for dinner. Whether it’s Father’s Day or any day, invite all hands to help prepare a family meal. Austin’s Jane Manaster shares her variation of pizza prep, and she’s often among a crowd of children and adults–some vegetarians, some not. Provide pizza crust dough, sauce, and a selection of toppings, and let […]
Cookery crumbs
We’ve nibbled away at the last of the crumbs in our Austin kitchen, and made the final meals with few tools. Refrigeration deserves more credit than it receives, and if you have access to clean water (not to mention filtered), count your blessings. A well-working refrigerator, decent sink and clean water, and a cooking/heat source all help in sustaining healthy […]
Please don’t pack . . .
the coffee. We’re still making coffee around The Cookery, but that’s the extent of food and beverage preparation. It’s packing time, and nearly everything is boxed up and ready to move. It’s a load of work with the promise of unpacking in the near future. If I’ve learned anything about packing and moving over the years of […]