Arroz con gandules is a very popular Puerto Rican rice dish. Rendered pork fat and spices flavor the rice before the pigeon peas are added and the whole lot is steamed until fluffy and soft. You’ve probably seen, if not tasted, Arroz con Gandules if you’ve ever had the honor of being invited to a Puerto…
side dishes
Macaroni Salad: Hawaiian Inspired
Show of hands of all the people who have cancelled vacations this year? Yep. That’s exactly what I figured. Unfortunately for most of us, 2020 is a wash. Since many of us aren’t going on a tropical vacay this year, let’s bring a taste of the tropics to us. Hawaiian-inspired Macaroni Salad that’s creamy and flavorful…
Arroz Blanco (Steamed White Rice)
I read an article on the internet that said more than half of the world’s population depends on rice for their daily caloric intake. Rice is an important dietary staple for many of the world’s cultures. For my family, in particular, it has been a part of most of our meals, yes, even breakfast. Many…
Rainbow Carrots in Tarragon Brown Butter
My Rainbow Carrots in Tarragon Brown Butter are the best springboard to an easy, memorable (for good reasons) Easter (or Mother’s Day) dinner. Because you’re my friend, I’m going to give you a piece of professional advice. Never, ever, ever go out to eat on a major holiday. Just don’t do it to yourself. Nine time…
Rustic and Rich Baked Mashed Potatoes
Let’s establish something right out of the gate: mashed potatoes shouldn’t be smooth. I don’t care what you say, I don’t care how it makes you feel; I said what I said. The only mashed potatoes that are supah-smoove are the ones that come in those boxes with the metal spout. They are potato flakes,…
Country Style Collard Greens in the Slow Cooker
I’m going to give it to you straight- I, honestly, have no idea what makes these greens “Country Style”. Most of my childhood was set in suburban/inner-city areas. But, when I think of “Country Style” food I think of food that is slow-cooked, wholesome, and tastes of love. As such, I think my slow cooker…
Crispy Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Fresh Herbs
So, remember last week when I told you about my asinine decision to renovate my living room and kitchen? And remember how I said I, “Would have updated pictures by this week,” [because, surely, it wouldn’t take that long]? Well, I’m a total liar, and I suck at renovating. There. The truth is out. One thing I…
Frijoles Borrachos (Drunken Beans): Cinco de Mayo Recipe Ideas #4
I’m going to try my hardest not to perpetuate a stereotype. Let’s preface this post by saying that not all Latinos like, or eat, beans. Now, my family isn’t among them, nor are any of the Latinos I’m friends with. Every single Latino I know enjoys beans. Hell, we even have our Black and White friends eating…
Haricot Verts with Bacon and Portobello Mushrooms
Here in Central Texas, we’ve been enjoying Summer since, well, December. Nevertheless, I’m gearing up for it in the kitchen with vim and vigor! Seeing the arrival of haricot verts in my favorite farmer’s market sparked a new sense of, “Omigosh!! I have two weeks to get a six-pack!!” Now, I really had to be honest…who’s checking…
