There is something sensuous about nibbling a dainty biscuit that transports one to a perfumed rose arbour or a sunny patch of violets. And the taste of these really lives up to the romantic associations. They are beautifully buttery, with a great … [Read more...]
Toscakaka: Scandinavian caramelised almond cake
This is a cake beyond the ordinary. I encountered Toscakaka (Tosca cake) years ago in Norway, where it is well-loved throughout the year. I associate it mostly with Christmas, however, as the best I had there was baked by a lovely woman named Elsa, … [Read more...]
Sicily, part 2: Sicilian caponata
This is where I share the treasured recipe and insider tips for making traditional Sicilian caponata, as we learned it from two wonderful cooks in Noto, in the south-east of Sicily (read more here). It's the real thing -- exquisitely vibrant, … [Read more...]
Lamb and gammon broth with vegetables and herb dumplings, and rhubarb sponge crumble
March brings that antsy feeling, when we’re tired of winter, but it’s not quite finished with us. The signs of spring are getting bolder, but there are days when the lambs look a little cold in their new fleeces, and a late frost could still play … [Read more...]
Cranberry and orange streusel cake
This cake makes a moist, festive and fresh-tasting treat for November and December when cranberries are in season and oranges are really good. It has a lovely, fine crumb and isn't icky sweet. The tartness of the cranberries provides a great … [Read more...]
Chez Panisse almond tart, and how even the best recipes evolve
The Chez Panisse almond tart has a loyal following to this day, almost forty years after it was first developed by pastry chef Lindsey Shere for the Berkeley restaurant that started the American food revolution. Sophisticated and delicious, this … [Read more...]