We love fresh spring rolls for just about any occasion; even serving them at this year’s socially distanced super bowl party; but they’re especially appreciated following this the 2021 Chinese New Year…the year of the OX. Regardless, these tiny bundles are delicious with shrimp or as a completely vegetarian offering; and a big hit with this super easy dipping sauce curated by chef Becky Miller from the Appleseeds Teaching Garden in Fayetteville.
There’s been several inches of snow consumption in our house over the last several days following the Winter storm here in Arkansas; two varieties of ice cream, scores of cocktails, but perhaps the favorite of everyone has been our simple, whimsical WINTER MAPLE TAFFY that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Homemade marshmallows are a triumph; relatively simple to make but oh so impressive to announce that you prepared them when serving them as a topper to hot chocolate or gooey, charred liaison between chocolate and graham cracker in the quintessential S’MORE. We actually love them as a dramatic addition to creme brulee and ramekin chocolate cake - especially at intimate dinner parties.
Chinese New Year 2021 begins Friday, February 12th - and just in case you were unaware, it’s the year of the OX….way sexier than my own PIG ZODIAC ANIMAL. Traditional Chinese noodles are thought to bring good luck in the new year; our quick, simple recipe calls for long lo mein noodles, tossed with a quick peanut based sauce and topped with just a few greens and pantry items.
Earthy, rustic, yet nuanced in delicate heat and sweetness, our CHICKEN with MOLE NEGRO might just be the perfect Valentine’s Dinner for your significant other…guaranteed to not only help you seal the deal, but also to make your house smell magical.
