Award-winning mixologist Ravin Buzzell unlocks the secrets of smoke and spirits in his unique Old-Fashioned cocktail. Frisky tendrils of cherrywood smoke swirl above the glass. The gray curls hint of rye and cardamom, conjuring up an enticing mystery. He took a cocktail that originated in the 1800’s and improved it, switching it up with components that added palate and visual…
Mark Bittman, NYT’s columnist and cookbook author, knows how to create tempting flavors without much fuss. Try out his Salmon and Tomatoes in Foil for a quick weeknight entree. This 5-ingredient recipe takes about 5 minutes to put together and roughly 12 minutes to bake. Easy. Salmon and Tomatoes in Foil Yield: 4 servings 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1…
Deborah Schneider, executive chef at Sol and Solita restaurants that include locations in Orange County and Los Angeles, has written an excellent new book, “The Essential Mexican Instant Pot Cookbook” (Ten Speed Press, $19.99). It showcases the vibrant flavors of Mexican food with fresh and authentic recipes for soups, tacos, burritos and tamales, as well as side dishes, salsas and…
There is mischief in Amar Santana’s eyes as his exuberant laughter fills my kitchen with culinary joy. He is relaxed, his confidence driven by a passion for cooking and a well-proven skill sets. The celebrity chef joined me to share the secrets of his silky corn pudding, a versatile side dish that can accompany everything from steak to sweetbreads. Watch…
Recognize the name? Chef Amar Santana dazzled viewers as a finalist on Bravo’s “Top Chef.” He competed on Korean Food Battle, and although he doesn’t speak Korean, almost won the competition. The HALL Global Eatery, SCP, Costa Mesa: Along with business partner Ahmed Labbate, Chef Santana has opened a extraordinary food hall at South Coast Plaza (it’s the spot where…
Yes, Cathy Thomas Drinks! One of my favorite cocktails of 2019 is the Morrigan’s Dream at the award-winning new restaurant, Fable & Spirit in Newport Beach (Lido Marina area). Mixologist Drew Coyle makes this irresistible concoction with fresh fruit juice, fresh celery juice, gin and Yellow Chartreuse. It’s bright and refreshing. Pretty too, a delicious green hue served in a…
Gratin Crush: teams butternut squash and Yukon Golds. Beyond irresistible. My gratin love started long ago in Paris. My first family meal in the home of my soon-to-be grandmother-by-marriage, I tasted my first cauliflower gratin. It was a pivotal moment. French cuisine had grabbed my palate and my imagination. How could anything taste, smell and look so delicious? There have…
Hatch chilies are such a treat. These beauties are named for the original growing area in Hatch, New Mexico. Growers say that the intense sunlight and cool nights in this valley result in a uniquely flavored chili. (The valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande’s southern-most bend before crossing into Texas and Mexico, is covered with row after row of…