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Christopher Idone

Christopher Idone
Did you know?

Christopher is considered a pioneer of the large-format, gorgeously photographed  cookbook. Thank you, Christopher.

Christopher Idone
Christopher's Featured Recipe
Braised Lamb Shanks with White Beans

Click here for recipe

In 1970 Christopher Idone changed the culinary world forever when he founded Glorious Food, a New York-based catering firm with a brand new take on style and taste. His fresh approach wowed the public — it went beyond catering and brought an elegance and ease to every occasion and placed his company and cuisine very much in the public eye. Throughout his tenure at Glorious Food, the company set the culinary bar, and many of today’s finest catering firms were founded by his protégés. 

 

Christopher sold the company in 1982 and turned to writing. His first best-selling book, Glorious Food launched the wave of lush, large-format cookbooks. A beautiful book, filled not just with his fresh, new recipes and food/style suggestions, but with extraordinary photographs as well, it sold more than 100,000 copies. Since its publication, hundreds of other food writers have borrowed the format but Glorious Food was the first of its kind.

 

His second book, Glorious American Food, made its debut in 1985 and won Cook Book of the Year and Best General Cookbook from the IACP, as well as the Photographers Annual Award. Salad Days followed in 1989, Cooking Caribe in 1992, Lemons in the spring of 1993 (winner of the James Beard Award) and Apples in the fall 1993.

 

Christopher was long in demand as a food consultant for restaurants as diverse as Sette MoMA, formerly at the Museum of Modern Art, to the Blackwell Group’s South Beach hotels and restaurants (including their first launch, The Marlin). He also contributed to culinary forums such as PBS’ Master Chef series and the American Beef Council. 

 

He was in demand as a speaker and lectured at a wide variety of venues from N.Y.U. to Macy’s. He appeared on the Today Show and Good Morning America, and contributed (as writer and photographer) to House and Garden, The New York Times Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, Allure, and Gentleman’s Quarterly. Christopher’s dinnerware – another fresh take on style – was sold exclusively at Neiman-Marcus and Henri Bendel.

 

In the mid-1990s, Christopher traveled extensively in Brazil. He fell in love with the country, its culture, and its cuisine, and introduced America to it in Brazil: A Cook’s Tour. The U.S. public embraced this take on the country and its food — the book is in its eleventh printing.

 

Christopher Idone passed away on April 15, 2016, after a long battle with cancer. He will forever be remembered as one of the culinary greats – he revolutionized the way cookbooks are published in America and consistently dazzled with his delicious recipes.

Latest Recipes

Creamed Dried Beef

Serve this on toast, baked potatoes or waffles-- it's a good dish.

(0 Votes)

Meatloaf

When it comes to comfort food, there's nothing quite like serving meatloaf for dinner! This recipe is a creative take on the classic dish, as it uses three types of ground meat, chili sauce, heavy cream, and an assortment of herbs and spices. The result is a dinner dish that everyone in your household will love! Although this meatloaf recipe will be the perfect way to warm up on a cold evening in fall or winter, you can certainly serve this recipe year-round.

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Collard Greens

Every home cook should have a collard greens recipe up their sleeves! This recipe for the delicious side dish, a favorite of the South, is easy to make. In this four-ingredient recipe, a ham hock and collard greens combine to form a side dish that is tasty as can be. Although the ingredients must simmer for two hours, don't despair that is plenty of time to get caught up on household chores.

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Chicken-Fried Steak and Cream Gravy

This Chicken-Fried Steak and Cream Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. It's a dish is also sometimes called country fried steak - crispy oil-fried steak and a hearty, creamy gravy that's easily found in the South. This chicken fried steak recipe doesn't need many ingredients to make a family-friendly dish that no one can resist! The basic cream sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the savory steak - it's no wonder this recipe is a tried and true favorite.

(1 Votes)

White Fish Chowder

You'll love how tasty and satisfying it is to make this fish chowder! This hearty soup can be served in your next dinner party or as a light family dinner the choice is yours. The fish chowder includes both cod and halibut, as well as pork fat back, resulting in a dish that you are sure to love. The use of fresh herbs will be the crowning touch for this recipe.

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Salad Nicoise

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Corn Souffle

To prepare the corn, husk the ears and remove all of the silk. Using a sharp knife, cut away the kernels from the cob, slicing from the top of the ear downward and not too close to the cob. Place the kernels in a bowl. With a small spoon, scrape the pulp from the cobs into the bowl.

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Shrimp Jambalaya

Looking for a Cajun-style recipe for your next dinner party? Shrimp Jambalaya is a great one to serve and build a menu around. This is an easy and quick dish to prepare and guests will enjoy the festive feeling that Cajun food brings with it. You can pair this dish with other New Orlean's inspired recipes and drinks to raise the level and excitement and fun. "This classic shrimp dish has a kick to it, so your guests will enjoy explosions of flavor in their mouth. They won't want to miss a bite of your homemade, delightful dish."

(2 Votes)

Poussin with Olive Puree and Sweet Peppers

Here is an unusual dish for a fancier dinner party you may be throwing. Poussin with olive puree and sweet peppers is a dish your guests will remember. In some commonwealth countries, Poussin is a butcher's term for a chicken that is less than 28 days old when it makes the transition into food for your table. Your guests will enjoy a change of scenery on the chicken front. It is a cut of chicken not served all of the time. This recipe prepares it with a delicious olive puree and sweet peppers. The flavors will jump off of the plate. Your guests will have a night they will not soon forget.

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Glazed Country Cured Ham

Here is a classic ham recipe you can use for a nice dinner party or a holiday meal. Glazed Country Cured Ham is a dish that you can build an entire menu around. This simple yet distinctive dish will have your guests looking for another helping. The ham with a glaze that includes dry mustard, bourbon, molasses, and brown sugar comes out incredibly flavorful and vibrant. You can pair a wonderful mashed potatoes dish and a vegetable casserole with your ham and your dinner will be complete and satisfying.

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Marinated Grilled Beef Hearts

This is a savory recipe for all of you beef lovers out there. It is can be a great entree for an outdoor gathering. While grilling the small beef cubes on skewers, easy for serving, you can also grill some very tasty vegetables, such as portobello mushrooms and eggplant. The garlic, onion and fresh oregano, along with a red wine marinade overnight, brings out the spectacular flavors of the beef and helps you create an amazing barbecue memory. Of course the beef skewers would not be complete without pairing them with a spicy salsa sure to cause a second alarm blaze in every bite.

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Caprese Salad

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Saratoga Chips

(1 Votes)

Irish Coffee

Rumor has it that Irish coffee was first served in the bars on San Franciscos wharves. Whether this is true or not, the practice of a li...

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Oven-Braised Barbecue Brisket

This Oven-Braised Barbecue Brisket only takes five ingredients and four steps to throw together, making it one of the easiest BBQ recipes out there! First, beef brisket is browned in a skillet, then smothered with chicken stock and barbecue sauce and baked in the oven until it's fall-off-the-fork tender. It's a great dish to make for a weekend get-together or a weeknight dinner. The best part is that you don't even need a grill to make this delicious barbecue beef brisket recipe, so you can have it all year long!

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Gravlax

Learn how to make Gravlax with this easy recipe. Gravlax is a Nordic dish made from salmon, salt, sugar, and spices. To make this cured salmon recipe, the fish is coated in a combination of salt, sugar, and crushed pepper. The salmon cures in the refrigerator over a period of several days. Once the salmon has been cured, it can be sliced thinly and served with a flavorful sauce made from mustard and dill. Gravlax makes a delicious and decadent appetizer for any party or social gathering.

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Potato Salad

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Lemonade

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Margarita

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Chicken Pot Pie

Who can resist the comforting, savory taste of a Chicken Pot Pie? This easy pot pie recipe is chock-full of vegetables and chicken for a dish that's as filling as it is flavorful. It's a favorite dish of kids and adults alike, and one that's earned its place as an American classic. By using frozen puff pastry you can cut down on the prep time, but this chicken pot pie recipe can be even better if you take the time to make it all from scratch! Either way, this is a familiar favorite dinner that can't miss.

(0 Votes)

Shepherds Pie

Shepherd's Pie, also known as cottage pie, has come a long way from the peasant dish it started out as in the 1700s. This hearty, filling dish is chock-full of meat, potatoes, and other vegetables for a comforting flavor you probably remember from your childhood. This shepherd's pie recipe can easily be made with leftovers, especially from Thanksgiving, so it's a great way to use up whatever's in your refrigerator. It's a great pick-me-up that's sure to keep you and your family warm on a cold day!

(1 Votes)

Herbed Mashed Potatoes with Roquefort Cheese

These Herbed Mashed Potatoes with Roquefort Cheese take your typical cheesy potatoes and bump them up a notch. Unlike other mashed potato recipes, this one uses sophisticated Roquefort cheese to complement the flavor of the herbs and create a creamy, rich side dish that's perfect for any meal. You can also substitute the Roquefort cheese with goat cheese for a new and exciting flavor (see the Notes section). Dinner parties will never be the same - these mashed potatoes will quickly become everyone's favorite!

(0 Votes)

Double-Dusted Fried Chicken

What makes this Double-Dusted Fried Chicken recipe so darn delicious? The secret is in the "double-dusting" technique the chicken is coated in two layers of seasoning before frying, which makes for a crispy fried chicken that's loaded with flavor. This is one of those easy chicken recipes that's sure to be a hit with family and friends - it takes less than an hour to make, so you can cook up this fried chicken for any dinner or gathering. It's a favorite of kids and adults alike!

(0 Votes)

Avocado Sandwiches

Avocado Sandwiches prove that you don't have to sacrifice taste for simplicity. Fresh and filling, this easy vegetarian recipe is sure to be a hit at a brunch or party. A delicious take on finger sandwiches, this avocado recipe pairs a buttery cilantro spread with bacon, tomato, and avocados for a mouthwatering combination that's quick and easy to prepare. The spread is simple and doesn't take away from the vegetables' natural flavor, making this a refreshing dish to serve as a snack or a main course. But be warned - they're addicting, and your guests won't be able to stop after just one!

(1 Votes)

Fried Chicken

This Fried Chicken recipe has only five basic ingredients, so you know you're getting the full flavor of the chicken without having to dress it up with any fancy seasonings. Flour, salt, and pepper are the key to making a simple breading that's delicious while not taking away from the chicken itself. This is an easy chicken recipe to use as a base for making chicken wings, or enjoy it on its own for a juicy chicken dinner that's great for the whole family or a summer cookout.

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Roast Chicken

If you're looking to learn how to roast a chicken, this Roast Chicken recipe is the best there is. The difficulty with roasting a chicken lies in the task of ensuring that the bird doesn't dry out while still cooking it thoroughly throughout. The secret lies in placing a lemon inside the bird, them basting the entire chicken several times during the cooking process to achieve a juicy, tender roast chicken for a classic family dinner. Serve with a vegetable side dish for a healthy and balanced meal!

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Grilled Chicken Salad

Marinated grilled chicken and a light, tangy dressing are the key components to making a Grilled Chicken Salad that truly stands out. The grilled chicken is easy to marinade and make, which is why a salad like this is one of those chicken breast recipes you need in your summertime arsenal! This simple salad is a healthy alternative to burgers or ribs that's great to have on hand at a cookout - fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and avocados deliver a burst of refreshment that feels delightful on a hot day. You'll come back to this chicken salad recipe time and time again!

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Piquant Tamales

These Piquant Tamales are bursting with spicy, savory flavor - it's no wonder that homemade tamales are one of the most sought after Mexican recipes among those who love cooking. Jalapeno peppers give this tasty tamale recipe a bit of a kick, while vegetables such as eggplant and zucchini bring a unique new element that you don't always see in traditional tamale recipes. While tamales often contain meat such as chicken or pork, this happens to be an entirely vegetarian recipe (although it is not vegan.)

(0 Votes)

Jalapeno Pie

When you think of pie jalapenos might not usually be the first thing that comes to mind, but you'll be missing out if you don't try out this Jalapeno Pie! This savory pie recipe has a kick from the jalapenos and a layer of cheese to form the perfect Mexican food - it's like jalapeno poppers in pie form. If you love a little spice, you're definitely going to want to make this recipe. It's great on its own as a main course, but you could also serve it as an appetizer along with other Mexican recipes for a themed dinner that no one will forget!

(0 Votes)

Chicken with Dill Dumplings

Who doesn't love the classic flavor of a chicken and dumplings recipe? This Chicken with Dill Dumplings uses fresh dill to amplify the flavor of the homemade dumplings - it's a totally different experience than using the kind of dried dill that comes in a jar. The dumplings themselves are remarkably simple to prepare, and the result is a rich, savory dumpling that perfectly complements the chicken, which is smothered in a delicious creamy dill sauce. This easy chicken and dumplings recipe makes for a hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy.

(1 Votes)

Lemon Risotto

This tangy Lemon Risotto recipe makes for a delicious, romantic dinner. Parmesan cheese and lemon juice give this risotto rice a tangy burst of flavor, while a little lemon zest provides a pop of bright color that dresses up the dish. People sometimes shy away from risotto recipes because they mistakenly think that it's too complicated a dish, but with a little patience, you'll learn how to make a risotto that's a perfect 10 every time. This easy risotto recipe is a great place to start.

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Shad Roe

Shad roe is a springtime delicacy found mainly in certain regions of the East coast. The shad fish itself is too bony to eat, but the roe has a delicious, decadent taste and texture that is eagerly awaited each year by those who love it. This shad roe recipe calls for a simple but flavorful sauce that pairs well with the delicate fish eggs. Unique fish recipes like this are sure to stun at a dinner party. But be warned - once you've tried shad roe, you'll be counting down the days until the spring when it will be available again!

(0 Votes)

Osso Buco

Osso buco is a traditional Italian recipe for braised veal shank that originated in Milan during the 19th century. It is often served in a brown broth with vegetables - in this case, onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes. A garlicky gremolata perfectly sets off the rest of the flavors in this osso buco recipe. It does take a few hours to prepare, but the tender veal and savory sauce will be well worth it. If you've been looking for veal recipes that are a hit every time, this age-old classic is certainly one of them.

(0 Votes)

Boudin

Boudin is a type of sausage that originated in Europe but has also become a popular component of Cajun cuisine. It can be made with almost any type of meat to create a wide variety of sausage recipes, including some that use seafood. This particular boudin recipe uses both pork and rabbit meats for a truly one of a kind flavor that's more sophisticated than that of other homemade sausage recipes. The time it takes to prepare is well worth the result - a savory, slightly spicy sausage that's unlike any you've had before.

(0 Votes)

Choucroute

Choucroute is a traditional sauerkraut recipe that originated in Alsace and became popular in France. It consists of sauerkraut and various meats, sometimes accompanied by potatoes or other hearty vegetables. This particular recipe is bursting with flavor - sausage, bacon, bratwurst, pork, and sauerkraut are accompanied by a hint of juniper and herbs for a truly unique taste, served in casserole form for ease and convenience. You'll never want to go back to other sauerkraut recipes once you've sampled this hearty, meaty dish - it's got the best of many worlds.

(0 Votes)

Posole Stew

Posole, sometimes written as pozole, is a traditional Mexican soup recipe that uses hominy, meat, spices, and other ingredients to form a hearty stew. This posole recipe uses pork, lamb, and sausage for a variety of meaty flavors that make this Mexican stew a family favorite. This posole soup is hearty and rich and stands alone as a main course. Posole is usually served on special occasions such as holidays and birthdays, but there's no reason you can't cook this mid-week and have a little celebration!

(1 Votes)

Turtle Soup

If you've never tried turtle meat before, you might balk at the idea of Turtle Soup. But rest assured - it's delicious (and very common!) Turtle has a texture similar to lobster when cooked, and this gumbo recipe uses its flavor to full effect, combining with vegetables and a touch of sherry to form a hearty, savory stew. When served with rice, this turtle soup recipe is enough to keep you full all day long. If you're not feeling adventurous, however, you can swap the turtle out and still get that delicious gumbo taste.

(0 Votes)

Mandiches Po Boy

The po' boy is a traditional sandwich recipe out of Louisiana. It can be made with most types of meat, but Mandiches Po Boy recipe, adhering to tradition, calls for fried oysters. These sandwich recipes have been around since the 1800s, and for good reason - they're savory and delicious, a true classic. This is also a great way to fry up some oysters if you're in the market for oyster recipes. The next time you're looking for sandwich ideas that are a little outside the box, make yourself a po' boy and have a little taste of New Orleans.

(0 Votes)

Bourride with Aioli

Bourride is a French fish soup similar to bouillabaisse. This Bourride with Aioli is a fish stew recipe that has a garlicky broth, thickened with aioli and served with tender cooked vegetables for a full, light meal. The fish stew itself is simple, requiring only a few ingredients, which leaves you free to cook the vegetables to your liking. The aioli makes for a great finishing touch when served with the vegetables. If you're a fan of garlic, you'll love this fish soup recipe.

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Oysters Rockefeller

The famed oyster creation was invented in 1899 in New Orleans at Antoine’s restaurant and named for the richness of its green sauce. The ...

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Codfish Balls

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Stewed Tomatoes with Rosemary

Fresh ripe tomatoes are one of summer’s joys. They need little seasoning and the fresh taste is incomparable. After stewing, the tomatoes...

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Brown Bread

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Apple Charlotte

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Cooking Lobster

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Johnny Cake

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Red Flannel Hash

Serve the hash with a poached egg for each guest, and ketchup on the side.

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Poached Salmon with Hollandaise Sauce

Fresh garden peas with butter and a sprinkling of mint are a traditional accompaniment to this festive dish. Sweet snap peas are a simpl...

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Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise is easily made in a blender or food processor. Egg yolks, lemon juice, and seasonings are blended and the clarified butter is...

(0 Votes)

Fish Fry

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Spoon Bread

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Tomato Soup

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Creamed Oysters and Ham

Serve this with Buckwheat Cakes

(0 Votes)

Buckwheat Cakes With Melted Butter

This savory pancakes are a wonderful base for the Creamed Oysters and Ham.

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Bread Sauce

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Glazed Tomatoes

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Syllabub

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She-Crab Soup

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Deviled Eggs

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Cole Slaw

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Coconut Cake

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Vichyssoise

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Peach Cobbler

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Grilled Oysters

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Ham Glaze

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Hopping John

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Glazed Potatoes

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Pound Cake

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Crab Cakes

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Mint Julep

How to make a julep: crush the mint, bruise the mint; freeze the glass, freeze the silver chalice; make it with rye, make it with bourbon...

(0 Votes)

Asparagus

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Rhubarb Pie

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Spiced Peaches

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Cherry Pie

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Minted Peas

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Glazed Carrots

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Spaetzle

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Spiced Cantaloupe

Serve with Dutch Brisket with Braised Onions.

(0 Votes)

Dill Pickles

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Apple Cake

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Matzo Ball Soup

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Gin Martini

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Black-Eyed Peas

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Stewed Corn

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Chili

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Sopaipillas

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Tripe Soup

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Turkey Mole

Serve this with Blue Corn Pancakes for something very extraordinary.

(0 Votes)

Blue Corn Pancakes

These are the unusual accompaniment for Turkey Mole.

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Squash Puree

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Michelle Naranjo’s Indian Bread

Be certain to serve this dense Indian bread hot from the oven.

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Pinon Brittle

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Gazpacho

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Chimayo Cocktail

This drink was invented at the Rancho de Chimayo. It provides a happy way of using the cider from their apple orchards.

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Red Salsa

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Chopped Salad

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Lemonade

Lemonade is probably the most refreshing thirst-quencher I can think of for the hot months of July and August. It is something I associa...

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Nut Conserve

Serve as an accompaniment to game meats and birds.

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Flapjacks

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Game Pie

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Chocolate Snow

Chocolate snow is one of winter's pleasures, not unlike the hot maple syrup New Englanders drizzle into snowbanks where the syrup hardens...

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Boiled Crawfish

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Calas

Calas was an early morning New Orleans snack, a hot, sweet-spiced rice cake fried crispy and served with the morning's cafe noir, or cafe...

(0 Votes)

Hot Slaw

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Pecan Pie

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Creole Oysters

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Sauteed Frog’s Legs

Jumbo frog's legs are as tender as butter.

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Oysters Rockefeller

The less you cook an oyster, the more delicious it will be. Blanketing an oyster with crumbs or cream results in a smothered oyster. Of t...

(0 Votes)

Corn Sticks

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Orange Ambrosia

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Pralines

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White Remoulade

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Hush Puppies

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Chilled Stone Crabs  with Mustard Mayonnaise

Winter stone crabs, looking like bright red parrot heads with jet-black beaks, are bought fully cooked because they are steamed and refri...

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Sazerac

Of all the drinks to come out of the watering holes of the Delta and the Quarter -- the fizzes, punches, cafe brulots, and cafe diablos -...

(0 Votes)

Toasted Pecans

The ubiquitous Southern pecan is served in many guises. Here the pecans are warmed, coated with a little butter and salt.  It's the perfe...

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Potato Tart

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Plum Tart

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Quail

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Polenta

This is a lovely side side for many things, but it was devised to be served with the Quail.

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Melted Berries

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Angel Food Cake

Serve with Lemon Cream and strawberries.  The tart lemon sauce and the berries cut the sweetness and complement this all-American dessert.

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Lemon Cream

This is very nice with Angel Food Cake.

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Louis Dressing

This dressing is served at Swan's Oyster Depot as the perfect sauce for oysters, Pacific coast clams, Dungeness Crabmeat and good sourdou...

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Foccacia

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Country Salad

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Summer Salad

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Black Bean Soup

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Lamb Stew

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Ratatouille

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Grilled Corn

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Pickled Herring

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Onion Marmalade

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Pickled Pears

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Plum Ketchup

(2 Votes)

Spiced Peaches

Serve with roast loin of pork, roast fresh or smoked ham, or as a dessert.

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Orange Brulee

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Cherry Clafouti

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Coconut Flan

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Huevos Nevadas

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Lemon Cake

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Berry Shortcake

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Plum Tart

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Ketchup

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Simple Syrup

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Pie Dough

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Vinaigrette

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Brown Sauce

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Tartar Sauce

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