Penang Achar

Achar is a word used in many Indo-Aryan languages for “Indian pickle.” This dish is composed of a variety of vegetables that are essentially pickled by being blanched in vinegar. This achar is particularly delicious to be eaten the next day when all ingredients infuse together. We prepared this dish during our Penang Cooking Class, … Continue reading

Quinoa Salad Tabbouleh-Style

My quinoa addiction started during my holiday in South America, where I ordered this refreshing quinoa at almost every meal.  I find the taste of quinoa itself to be quite mild, maybe slightly nutty, but I absolutely love the crunchy texture and fluffy consistency.  Sometimes I feel like I am betraying my natural affinity for white … Continue reading

Salmon Rillettes

Jen and I first tried salmon rillettes at one of our favorite brunch spots in New York, Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bakery. We decided to make a version of it for a party we hosted — we wanted a bunch of finger foods that were easy to serve as well as easy to make and salmon … Continue reading

apt4 food & wine, NYC

apt4 food & wine I had heard about apt4 initially from Tribeca Citizen, when the guys behind apt4 hosted an hors d’oeuvres and drinks event at a Tribeca loft. I was instantly intrigued by the concept — people go to an apartment, meet strangers who love food, and get served a full dinner with wine … Continue reading

Salad Shirazi

As I was preparing my Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb with a Honey Mustard Glaze, I was trying to think of a lighter side dish to serve with it.  I recalled the first time I had made Baby Lamb Chops with a Cucumber-Mint Relish, I served it with a tomato, cucumber, red onion and mint … Continue reading

Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwiches

I made these easy sandwiches for a work party. I like how cream cheese and mint filling gives this sandwich a refreshing taste. You can whip these up in no time for events like baby showers, tea parties, bridal showers and more. Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwiches recipe via Epicurious Ingredients 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint … Continue reading

Tzatziki

Jen and I have been meaning to make tzatziki ever since our trip to Greece in 2007.  We even bought the herb mix for it at the market during our trip. But somehow we’ve managed to forget until Jen decided to concoct the Mediterranean Feast of Baked Stuffed Peppers and Falafel Sandwiches. I used a … Continue reading

Baby Lamb Chops with Cucumber-Mint Relish

To celebrate spring (and have an excuse to day drink), my roommate and I hosted a grand “indoor picnic” party.  We made a bunch of appetizers and gallons of refreshing cocktails.  We even purchased this nifty plastic beverage dispenser so we could easily transport our bar up to the roof at the first sign of … Continue reading