spicy clementine beef stir-fry

Spicy Clementine Beef Stir Fry

While citrus are available year round, many varieties are at their peak of flavor in winter.  Among them is one of my favorites, clementine oranges. These little “cuties”, at their best right now, are super sweet, juicy, naturally seedless, and easy to peel.  Clementines are delicious on their own or in desserts, but I think they are even more sensational in savory dishes. Their sugary, tart flavor compliments the salty and spicy notes of this delicious stir-fry.

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twice-cooked french fries with sriracha mayonnaise

 

I seldom make french fries at home, and when I do, I usually purchase the frozen kind and bake them in the oven.  This time around, I decided to make them myself as the accompaniment to the lamb sliders I shared with you a few days ago.  Making the perfect fries, golden brown potatoes with a soft and creamy inside and crunchy exterior, takes a bit of time and effort. It involves cutting the potatoes uniformly into the desired shape, soaking the cut potatoes in water and then frying them twice, first at a low temperature to cook them through and then at a higher temperature just before service to brown and crisp them. Continue reading

pork meatball bánh mì sandwich

pork meatball bánh mì sandwich
The result of the French influence on Vietnamese cuisine is very evident in the bánh mì sandwich.  Usually served on a baguette and slathered with spicy aioli that is borrowed from French cuisine, this sandwich is then filled with meat and other ingredients that are decidedly more Vietnamese –  vegetable slaw made with pickled carrots and daikon radishes, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.  Other typical fillings include barbecue or roast pork, pâté, sliced ham and other deli meats, and even tofu. Continue reading