When it comes to buying produce, most shoppers pick through dozens of pieces, turning, squeezing and unfortunately bruising many of them until they find the most perfect looking, blemish-free pieces leaving mounds of picked-through, roughly handled and damaged produce that ultimately goes to waste. I’m guilty of this myself, but this behavior pressures grocery managers […]
It is winter once again in Chicago. The harsh winds and short grey days call for comfort food and quiet reflection as we prepare ourselves for the chaos of the coming holiday season. This time of year will always make me think of the time we spent living in southern Germany; the winters there were […]
Over the last several months I have been rigorously testing some cookware from legendary French maker Mauviel, and it has totally changed the way I cook. From searing meats to simmering velvety sauces or baking perfectly golden desserts, nothing cooks like copper. Even a thick steak won’t chill a hot copper skillet, and perfectly even […]
Spring has arrived at last, the trees are full of leaves again and the days are getting longer. Local farmer’s markets are just starting up again and though its still early in the season, the first summer vegetables are starting to appear. Deep red tomatoes, golden yellow squash, dark green zucchini, and violet eggplant are […]
A little over a year ago I made a new friend. Kara came from Chicago to stay in our village for 2 months while her boyfriend worked on a project with my husband. As it always is in the beginning you talk, ask questions, find out what you have in common. On a whim we decided […]
Women love shopping, and I’m no different. While most women are shopping for shoes and handbags; I would rather browse shops and markets for herbs, spices and fresh ingredients. My favorite section is produce, this is where I really get inspired and the ideas start flowing. Soups, stews, casseroles, salads, or just heirloom tomatoes and […]
When the air grows cool and crisp, I start reminiscing about an apple-picking weekend trip we’d taken several years ago to the orchards along the lake shores of southwestern Michigan. Rows upon rows of trees heavy with the most beautiful red, yellow, and green apples, begging to be picked and eaten on the spot. As […]
My first entry… this is pretty exciting! Another food blog, I know. With so many food blogs going up every day, how can I compete with some of the best out there? Like most food bloggers, I read blogs for the wonderful recipes and delicious photos. I’ve always been fond of cooking and grew up […]
A Cook's Canvas 