Long Weekend Gift Guide
The perfect warm weather presents for your host, or yourself
Whether you're heading up to a friend's cottage or are decorating your outdoor space, these gifts will inspire a summery vibe in no time.
Cinco de Mayo Party Guide
Mark a major Mexican-American holiday with delicious food, drinks and good friends
Cinco de Mayo is held annually on May 5 to celebrate Mexican heritage and commemorate the army's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is celebrated all over North America and has become synonomous with all things Mexican.
Mother's Day Gift Guide
Our top five food-inspired gifts for Mom
Mother's Day is quickly approaching. Check out our Top 5 gift recommendations for the food-loving mom who enjoys entertaining.
Five Great Wine Routes to Explore
Drink in centuries of tradition on a European wine trip
Escape the crowds of Tuscany and head to the hills of nearby Umbria instead. This wild, mountainous region of Italy isn’t as famous as, say, Chianti, but that just makes discovering its bright, food-friendly wines that much more exciting. Umbria has long been known for Orvieto, a crisp, dry, white blend produced around the medieval village of the same name. But it is also becoming celebrated for elegant reds based on sangiovese, such as Torgiano Rosso, which pairs beautifully with the area’s hearty, game-based cuisine. Be sure to visit the village of Norcia, which is as famous for its pork salume and black truffles as it is for being St. Benedict’s birthplace.
Recipe: Vietnamese Chicken Pho
Serve this classic Vietnamese dish with an aromatic white wine
In large stockpot over high heat, warm chicken broth. Add scallions, garlic, ginger, five spice powder, sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, Tabasco and sesame oil; bring to a boil. Lower heat to medium-low and simmer 15 minutes.
Recipe: Vodka Pasta
Serve this pasta with an Italian red
Heat a large skillet over moderate heat. Add oil, butter, garlic, and shallots. Gently saute shallots for 3 to 5 minutes to develop their sweetness. Add vodka to the pan, 3 turns around the pan in a steady stream will equal about 1 cup. Reduce vodka by half, this will take 2 or 3 minutes. Add chicken stock, tomatoes. Bring sauce to a bubble and reduce heat to simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
Recipe: Rustic Beef Stew
An excellent and hearty one-pot dish
Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 300˚F (149˚C). Using paper towels, thoroughly dry the beef and generously season with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy-duty casserole (preferably enamelled cast iron) heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add several pieces of meat and cook until meat is browned on all sides, about 10 to 12 minutes per batch. Do not crowd the pan. Using tongs (to avoid piercing the meat), transfer to a platter.
Recipe: Walnut Eggplant Parmesan
Serve this side dish alongside a cut of veal and an Italian red
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
