Austin Food Journal

Not a thing wrong with it. The pan would have cost $12, but I got it for free from my mother. Best pan I have. Steak. Eggs. Potatoes. Cobbler. You name it. It cooks it.

My grandparents house in Napa has the most wonderful walnut orchard in the back of the property. We have a pecan tree, but there is something special in having a dozen, purposefully grafted, fully mature trees at the ready. Your own army.

I get the impression that sitting down to a meal is slowly becoming extinct. I think that is a shame. Especially if you put some good work in the kitchen. If nothing else you have a captured audience to tell you how much they enjoy your food. Turn off the TV, get out the good silver.

I wish more people ate duck. I love it. Here it is with a dried cherry port sauce.

I know it tastes good, but seriously. After 45 minutes of killing and dismantling a live lobster, this is what I have to show for it. No wonder I prefer scallops.

Lobster Risotto with Peas and Asparagus.

One of the Naked Chef (Food Network) shows had him preparing simple braised chicken. Slow cooked in a pan with olives, garlic, tomatoes, rosemary and white wine to deglaze. I like that each simple ingredient adds a component (olive = salty, tomato = acid, rosemary = spice). Here is a variation with arugula and red onion rings.