Recipezaar: Historical/Traditional,European recipes

Rose Cottage Fragrant Old English Rose Liqueur Syrup

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:46:43 -0400

This is my mum's recipe for rose syrup - and the name of their cottage in England! Try to use old English shrub roses, as they are highly fragranced and impart a delicate flavour to the syrup. The correct word for this recipe would be a Shrub or a Ratafia, as it is fortified with brandy - however, Ratafia would also have fruit or almond kernels added; it would have been offered as a refreshing "pick-me-up" to gentile ladies - with water or lemonade added of course! This recipe is well over 100 years old and a bottle of this would make an unusual and delighttful gift. -- posted by French Tart

Lemon Verbena Ice Cream from a French Country Herb Garden

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:53:00 -0400

I grow many old fashioned and unusual herbs in my garden in France, and although many people know Lemon Balm, Lemon Verbena is not so well known, which is such a shame! For me the flavour is MUCH more lemony and intense than Lemon Balm - think lemon sherbet, and you have a good idea of what to expect! The plant has graceful pointed leaves that are a gorgeous pale green in colour. Just scrunching a leaf in your hand to release the aromas can help fatigue or a headache. This is an ice cream I came up with to refresh and revive even the most jaded of palates refreshing and with an amazing lemony zing! You should be able to source Lemon Verbena at any good Farmer's Markets - alternatively, make friends with someone who grows it! (Prep time includes the time to infuse the leaves to extract the flavour.) -- posted by French Tart

Swiss Zitronen Kuchen (Lemon Loaf)

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:37:18 -0400

I learned this recipe from a family when I was living in Switzerland. I didn't have much experience as far as making loaves, but this recipe turned out almost right away and soon became a favourite. The lemon drizzle makes for a nice burst of lemon flavour in the moist loaf. It also tastes really good warm or cooled down! The only problem is that the ingredients are all measured in grams, since I just use a scale. Sorry for the inconvenience...but enjoy! -- posted by Ruki Nox

Pierogi Filling

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:48:21 -0400

I grew up on Mrs. T's, never knowing what a homemade pierogi tasted like. I still have love for Mrs. T's, but there is nothing like a homemade pierogi; it's the ultimate comfort food for me. I won't bother to put up a dough recipe since there are so many good ones out there but I will advise never to trust a pierogi dough recipe that doesn't call for sour cream. So here are my recipes for potato and cheese, cabbage, and meat fillings. I try to cut a few corners since making pierogies is an all day event. They are all my own creations with the exception of the hunter's seasoning mix which I found in a traditional polish cookbook called "Polish Holiday Cookery" by Robert Strybel. You can make your own mix by using the instructions below or order the seasoning mix from an online food exporter or specialty store. -- posted by OwlMonkey

Chilled Summer Lettuce, Lovage and Garden Pea Soup

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 02:25:38 -0400

A delightful and refreshing chilled soup for summer - this savoury soup takes its flavour from freshly chopped lovage leaves, which impart a savoury, lemony and celery-like taste. I like to serve this pale green soup in clear glass bowls for maximum impact, with a few chopped leaves sprinkled on top and a swirl of cream. This soup makes an elegant starter for any summer event or a light luncheon dish. Do not be tempted to add more lovage then is suggested, it is a very strong flavoured herb and can be overpowering if used with a heavy hand! -- posted by French Tart

Tarte Aux Abricots - Glazed French Apricot Tart With Almonds

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:12:06 -0400

This is my favourite type of French fruit tart, even more so than apple tart! Our local Patisserie makes a wonderful Tarte aux Abricots, but they are quite expensive and VERY large, much too big for the two of us when we have no B and B guests! So, I have been tinkering in the kitchen again, and have come up with this recipe. You MUST use fresh apricots for this - tinned ones are too soft and too sweet. Plus, I love the slightly tart flavour that the fresh apricots lend to the flavours of this tart. The ground almonds are scattered over the base of the short crust pastry case to stop it becoming soggy during cooking; they also provide a complimentary flavour to the apricots. A classic French tart that will make a delightful ending to any special meal or for afternoon tea. Serve this tart with fresh whipped cream or crème fraiche. -- posted by French Tart

Old-Fashioned English Summer Berry Jelly and Ice Cream!

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:17:56 -0400

Little wibbly-wobbly ruby red jellies with mixed summer berries, so cooling and great with ice cream. There is nothing I love more than taking a basket to the end of my garden to pick an assortment of ripe summer berries when they are in season! The sense of satisfaction at picking your own fruit is wonderful. Although I have called these little jellies English summer berry jellies, I DO make these in France of course - it's just that the berries remind me of my grandparent's gardens and picking the fruit when I was little...plus, the combination of berries is the same as a traditional English Summer Pudding recipe! I make these in little vintage metal moulds, they look so pretty served this way; you can of course make this recipe in a large mould, but DO allow extra time for the jelly to set. -- posted by French Tart

British Fig Rolls - Almost Better Than Shop Bought!

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 09:47:22 -0400

This is a recipe I found many years ago for authentic Fig Rolls, and they are almost better than the shop bought variety, much though I love the commercial ones! Try to roll out the pastry as thinly as possible, other than that, this recipe is a breeze to make. Fig rolls are a much-loved "biscuit" from my childhood days and I make them whenever I can as I now live in France, as we cannot get them here. Fig rolls are great for a mid-morning snack with a cuppa as well as being ideal for school lunchboxes, picnics, gifts and afternoon tea. (I have posted this recipe on Zaar especially for Lalaloula, who asked about a fig roll recipe in the British forum.) -- posted by French Tart

Chicken Salad in a Creamy Chive and Lovage Dressing

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:55:21 -0400

I love my lovage! Moreover, this is a delectable way to use up cold cooked chicken with this wonderful old-fashioned herb! This salad would be perfect for a light luncheon dish or an elegant dinner party starter. I have also made this to take on picnics with great success. Lovage is one of my favourite herbs and I have been growing it for the last 20 years in my herb garden. It is only now regaining its popularity - however, it was a much-used herb in medieval times, and later on, it was often used as a salt substitute. The leaves have a slightly salty, savoury celery-like flavour and are very pungent, so they mused be used carefully in cooking. Anything more than 2 tablespoons of chopped lovage in this dressing will totally overpower all the other flavours - I know this to my cost! An obscure little-known fact! Culinary celery salt and celery seeds are nearly always made with ground lovage seeds, as lovage seeds have a more distinct celery flavour than celery seeds! I am a mine of useful or useless information! -- posted by French Tart

Fresh Fig and Ginger Chutney from the Auberge

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:06:24 -0400

When my two fig trees are in season, I struggle to cope with the amount of fruit they produce..........a rather nice problem I have to admit! We eat figs fresh with nearly every meal; I make jams, conserves and also bottle the fruit in liquor. However, this is one of my favourite ways of using some of my fresh figs, and this chutney is just amazing when served with the cheese board or with cold meats and charcuterie. Ginger has a natural affinity with fresh figs and gives this chutney an extra layer of flavour. This chutney does not keep as long as some other fruit chutneys, but that never seems to be a problem, as we eat most of it quite quickly and I always have numerous requests from family and friends for a pot or two when I make it! This intense chutney really captures the fruits rich sweetness perfectly and is capable of turning a simple toasted sandwich into something rather special.......it's great with all types of cheese. -- posted by French Tart

Lemon Curd

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:26:46 -0400

On scones of course, but also "eat-it-with-a-spoon" good. Try it as a cake filling, or topping fruit quickbreads or English muffins. -- posted by Corvina

Stuffed Vine Leaves With Lamb and Wild Rice

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:34:10 -0400

Stuffed Grape Leaves with Wild Rice and Lamb -- posted by Chef #1322060

Mary's Savory Marinara Sauce

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:33:40 -0400

This is my mom's delicious marinara sauce recipe that she kindly provided to me. I have fond memories of her making this sauce often and filling the entire house with its wonderful aroma. It has a savory tomato-y taste, a nice hint of basil, and goes well with all types of pasta (including lasagna). I also like to use it for homemade meatball heroes. I hope that you all will enjoy it as much as we do! -- posted by someone named antoine

Bergamot Fresh Fruit Salad With Scented Pelargonium Leaves

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:58:43 -0400

This fruit salad is amazing, and all the more for the addition of bergamot leaves and flowers! The fragrant leaves of this versatile herb delicately flavour the syrup whilst the gorgeous shaggy red flowers and scented pelargonium leaves decorate it for the final finishing flourish! If you are a lover of Earl Gray tea, you will instantly recognise the flavour of this herb, as it is used to flavour this famous and popular tea blend. NOTE: Bergamot, often referred to as bee balm, became distinguished as "Oswego Tea" when a Quaker botanist, John Bartram, sampled a tea made from the leaves. A Bergamot lemon is a small yellow sour citrus fruit similar to an orange, mostly cultivated in Calabria in Italy. The rind contains an essential oil used in perfumery (the basis for eau-de-cologne), confectionary and Earl Grey tea. The zest is also used in pâtisserie. NB: Prep time includes cooling time. -- posted by French Tart

Mixed Herb Salad With Borage : La Salade De Plusieurs Herbes

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:58:51 -0400

A delightful old French salad recipe, which uses fresh aromatic herbs with fresh lettuce leaves and a simple dressing. Serve this with poached salmon or cold chicken for an elegant dinner party dish. Adapted from a 16th century French translation of a book originally written in Latin in 1474. NB: Borage is an excellent culinary herb and can be used in a variety of ways. Borage is far better used fresh, as the flavour and colour deteriorate when dried and some essential oils lost. Traditional recipes recommend borage leaves and seeds, together with fennel in salads for increasing the milk supply in nursing mothers. The leaves and flowers are still added for flavour and garnish to wine cups, Pimms and gin-based summer cocktails and the flowers are still candied for confectionary as cake and ice cream decorations. -- posted by French Tart

Saffron Scented Fresh Figs With Cinnamon and Honey

Sat, 18 Jul 2009 14:12:33 -0400

A delectable dessert that makes full use of fresh, luscious, ripe figs with a sophisticated saffron and honey syrup. This is often on my dessert menu when my figs are in season, and is an easy and yet impressive end to any special meal. Although I have suggested that you serve this warm, it is also lovely when served at room temperature or just slightly chilled. Food of the Gods and Goddesses! -- posted by French Tart

Lemon Lavender Posset

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 15:52:12 -0400

Wonderful dinner party dessert -- so easy! You may also wish to add fresh seasonal fruits such as raspberries or strawberries, dusted with confectioner's sugar. Preparation time includes a four hour chill time. Adapted from an 'A la Carte with Lee White' recipe. -- posted by BecR

Fresh Peaches in Sauternes Soak With Angelica and Lavender

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 20:32:34 -0400

This is a wonderful, light summery dessert, which never fails to please my guests, as well as my family and friends! Fresh peaches are soaked in sweet Sauternes with angelica leaves and lavender flowers tucked amongst them. Angelica is an interesting, aromatic tasting herb, and although I normally only use the stems to candy or crystallise (Recipe #248003) I have discovered that the leaves also make a great accompaniment when used with fresh fruit. Try to serve this fresh fruit salad in a large clear glass bowl for maximum impact; it just looks so pretty with the light shining through the fruit, juices and herbs! I find that the only thing that is needed to serve this is a good dollop of crème fraiche. I have also made this with apricots and melon for a slight change. I like to use a combination of white and yellow peaches for this recipe but please use local and fresh peaches regional to your area. Prep time includes the minimum "soaking" time. I have not tried this with tinned peaches, but suspect that they may be too "soft" to hold their shape for prolonged soaking. -- posted by French Tart

Little Wild Sorrel and Herb Tarts With Melted Goat's Cheese

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 10:12:12 -0400

A delicious and different way to use sorrel leaves - sorrel is usually used in soup and omelette recipes. These little herb tarts are so summery and make wonderful picnic food, as well as interesting appetisers. I have wild, woodland and cultivated sorrel in my garden, but prefer the tangy almost lemon and vinegar taste of wild sorrel leaves in these little tarts. Serve these warm or at room temperature with lightly dressed salad leaves and a glass of crisp, chilled Chablis or Chardonnay. Notes on using sorrel leaves: Sorrel is one of those ingredients that feature all too rarely in our kitchens, yet its bite and acidity make it one of summer's top temptations. When you're cooking the larger, mature leaves, strip out and discard the stalks, just as you would with spinach, before cooking. Avoid aluminium or cast-iron pans, though, because the oxalic acid in the leaves reacts with the metal and affects the flavour. -- posted by French Tart

River Cottage Sorrel Pesto With Goat's Cheese

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:10:48 -0400

Tangy, freshly made pesto with sorrel leaves and goat's cheese. A WONDERFUL recipe from River Cottage and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, and one that I use regularly! This pesto is stunning when added to gnocchi and all types of pasta, as well as grilled chicken and fish. So simple and full of summer flavours! It also makes a great gift for a dinner party host/ess, or for a foodie friend; put the pesto in an attractive jar with a recipe suggestion label and a wooden spoon. -- posted by French Tart

Peachy Fresh Fruit Salad With a Flourish of Angelica and Mint!

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:08 -0400

This was the first thing I was taught to make at secondary school in Domestic Science! We were all taught to make basic lemon syrup for the fruit salad, a great classic and a standard recipe that I have never forgotten! However, here I have deviated a little and have taken advantage of some excellent local peach syrup instead of the homemade lemon syrup I usually make; and I have garnished the salad with mint and angelica from my herb garden. I have suggested certain fruits to use, but the beauty of a fresh fruit salad is that you can always rustle one up with whatever you have locally and to hand. Serve with fresh pouring cream for a real treat! -- posted by French Tart

Lavender, Lemon and Honey Tea from Wolds Way Lavender Farm

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 02:14:35 -0400

A wonderful recipe that I discovered on a recipe card from Wold's Way Lavender Farm in North Yorkshire, England! This magical lavender farm is just down the road from my parent's house and is high on my "must visit" list when I go home to England. I have found that this tea is a miracle worker for headaches, head colds and colds in general........the soothing honey helps sore throats whilst the lemon contains essential vitamin C, and the lavender provides a calming and refreshing element to this herbal tea or tisane. Although this is mainly served hot, I have made this during the summer months as an iced tea, as it's perfect for hot, sultry days. -- posted by French Tart

Lavender and Strawberry Fruit Cup from Wolds Way Lavender Farm

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 02:14:53 -0400

A boozy lavender fruit cup made with vermouth, herbs and fresh strawberries! How good is that! This is another gem of a recipe that I discovered on a recipe card from Wolds Way Lavender Farm in North Yorkshire, England which is just 10 minutes from my parent's cottage. The delicately flavoured drink is the perfect way to unwind after a long, hard day........It is almost better than Pimms, and, as Pimms is my favourite summertime tipple, that is really saying something! Sit back, relax, sip and enjoy! -- posted by French Tart

Sarah's Best Lasagna

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:34:28 -0400

This is the 1st time I've completely invented a recipe on my own!!! I've made lasagna before, following a recipe or two, but this one certainly takes the cake! A little sloppy, a-lot-o-saucy, and scrumdidleeeeumptious!!!!! My 12-yr-old went for 3rd's while she was supposed to be cleaning up the kitchen :) It's an easy recipe you can make on your own, or with your kids. -- posted by sarahcis

Mum's Quick & Easy Throw It All in Lemon Drizzle Cake

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:47:02 -0400

One of my favourtie recipes that my Mum has been making for years - if only I knew how easy it was I'd have started making it sooner! No faff, just throw it all in & pop in the oven for 40 mins and you will be left with one of the most moist, delicious cakes you will ever make :o) -- posted by Chef #1162143

Turkish Spinach & Feta Borek

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 03:01:31 -0400

This is a wonderful recipe for borek made in a large dish rather than the individual little rolls. It is great served in squares as a side dish or you can even make a meal out of it with a nice salad, some olives & fresh bread! Borek of all kinds is very popular with everyone in Turkey but it is especially popular during Ramadan time. Time to make doesn't include the resting time in the fridge! -- posted by Um Safia

Old-Fashioned Baked Egg Custard Tart With Nutmeg

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 03:12:41 -0400

A taste of my childhood, my grandmother made the most amazing Egg Custard, as we used to call it! In the absence of lard, or if you are vegetarian, use a white vegetable cooking fat, but NOT margarine, as the white fat gives the pastry its crispness. Serve this tart at room temperature with cream or just "naked"! You can buy these delectable little tarts in most British bakeries, but they always taste better when they have been made at home. This old-fashioned custard tart needs a thick, wobbly filling, so I've used a round tin with sloping sides and a rim, which gives a good depth. The nutmeg is very important to the flavour, so always use it freshly grated and grate it on to a piece of foil, which helps when you have to sprinkle it on quickly when it goes into the oven. -- posted by French Tart

Honey-Roasted Pear Salad With Thyme and Verjus Dressing

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:33:56 -0400

An elegant and sophisticated salad that makes good use of verjus (verjuice) in the dressing. I use a local blue cheese, such as Roquefort in this salad; however, please do use a local blue cheese of your choice - any creamy or robust blue cheese will marry well with the pears and tart dressing. Verjuice, or verjus, is the juice of unripe grapes. This staple of French provincial cooking, a key ingredient in Dijon mustard, has the tartness of lemon juice and the acidity of vinegar, but the harshness of neither. Its delicate flavour is ideal for everything from stocks to sweet syrups - as long as you know what you're doing. Verjus was also a common ingredient used in English cooking throughout the Middle Ages. I try to make a batch of verjus every year with the green grapes from my non-dessert grape vine - as I love cooking with it. This recipe came from an old copy of Bon Appetit magazine from 2005. Prep time includes the time it takes the pears to cool. -- posted by French Tart

Brussels Sprouts Parisienne

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:49:48 -0400

Lightly steamed and tossed in butter, a dash of salt & pepper and a pinch of nutmeg--sometimes simple is best! Top sprouts with crisp crumbled bacon, freshly grated lemon zest, and a dollop of creme fraiche to dress them up, if you like! This is my favorite Brussels sprouts recipe, since childhood. -- posted by BecR

Kielbasa, How to Cook Fresh Homemade Kielbasa

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:55:59 -0400

Should you make my Kielbasa, Homemade Kielbasa, Fresh Polish Sausage, Recipe #386789, this is a very good way to cook it. This is better even than simmering it in beer. Servings, of course, depend on the amount you are cooking! -- posted by Jezski

Maids of Honour - Traditional English Custard Cheesecake Tarts

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:18:35 -0400

These old fashioned English tea tarts are somewhere between cheesecake and custard, and are similar to those served at the Maids of Honour tea rooms in Richmond, Surrey, England (the official recipe is a closely guarded secret) since the early 18th century. I prefer a shortcrust pastry shell, but you may use a puff pastry if you prefer---9 ounces of packaged puff pastry should be sufficient for the job. Recipe is slightly adapted from one found in a Nigella Lawson cookbook. -- posted by BecR

Old-Fashioned Raspberry Vinegar

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:34:20 -0400

A bottle of this beautiful ruby-red vinegar would make a lovely foodie or hostess gift! A little history: in modern times, flavored vinegars are mostly used as a salad condiment. But in olden times, before the advent of soft drinks, vinegar syrups were mixed with ice water and served as a cooling & refreshing summer drink. This is an updated version of a recipe found in an old cookbook from Colonial Virginia and Thomas Jefferson's time; I've included simple directions for making either raspberry vinegar, or raspberry vinegar syrup. Time includes steeping time of 48 hours. -- posted by BecR

Grandmother's Strawberry Jam

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:02:59 -0400

Old fashioned strawberry goodness! This delicious jam with its rich, fruity Strawberry flavor is lovely served on warm buttered scones with Devon or Cornish cream for a traditional English Strawberry Cream Tea. An updated old family recipe. Enjoy! -- posted by BecR

Traditional Jersey Bean Crock: the Original Baked Beans

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:25:13 -0400

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands.The island is usually the hottest place in the British Isles during the summer months, with the temperature averaging a few degrees higher than the mainland. As the island is neither part of the EU or the UK, it is a popular 'duty-free' destination. Jersey has a rich and varied history, with several wars and invasion attempts over many centuries.The island was part of the Duchy of Normandy in the 10th century and became part of the Anglo-Norman realm in 1066. The island's history is reflected in the French road names and typical Jersey surnames, as well as in the many historical French artefacts and monuments that can be found around the island. This is a traditional recipe, and no self-respecting Jersey woman would be without her earthenware bean crock, or casserole, in which to cook one of the most filling and tasty of all the island's recipes. So popular was this bean dish that every farmhouse had its bundles of drying French beans hanging from the rafters waiting to be shelled in the long winter evenings. Town folk used to hang their beans in the garage. For some Islanders this was a traditional supper dish; others had it for Sunday breakfast. Mr. Heinz is supposed to have taken the idea for his famous baked beans from the bean crock of Jersey emigrants in Canada. Prep time includes the overnight soaking for the beans. (This adapted recipe is originally from the Jersey Tourism Website.) -- posted by French Tart

Potted Shrimps for a Traditional Yorkshire Shrimp Tea

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 02:56:56 -0400

Delicate pink shrimps nestled in spiced butter that are packed into earthenware pots, and sealed with golden clarified butter - quintessential British fare that is tinged with timeless elegance of an old-fashioned Seaside teatime treat! Although Morecambe Bay in the North West of England is most famous for its potted shrimps, I remember these amazing Yorkshire Shrimp Teas from my childhood; you would see signs outside country cottages and farmhouses along the Yorkshire coastline near Scarborough and Whitby. Potted shrimps are traditionally served with hot toast and lashings of hot (preferably Yorkshire) tea! Serve these potted shrimp as appetisers, or for a real Yorkshire Shrimp Tea - with hot buttered toast, fresh lemon wedges and a pot of tea. This recipe is based on a 19th century recipe found in an old country cookbook, which I bought in an antique bookshop in England. (Prep time includes chilling time.) -- posted by French Tart

Singin' Hinnies - Northumbrian Tea-Time Griddle Cakes/Scones

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 03:04:32 -0400

Served warm and oozing with butter, these fabulous fruity griddlecakes make a great treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. I remember my grandmother making these when I was little; she lived in a very old stone cottage in Northumberland, and made these on a huge cast iron black griddle, or girdle as they were also called! We used to eat them hot from the griddle, with butter in front of a roaring wood fire during the winter months. Singin' hinnies are a type of fried fruit scone or griddle cake, so called as they 'sing' and sizzle whilst cooking. 'Hinny' is a Northern term for endearment used especially to children - my grandmother used to call me "hinny". Similar to singin' hinnies are Northumbrian griddle cakes, also known as Gosforth gridies. If you are making them for a childrens party or at Christmas, put coins that have been briefly boiled, then wrapped in greaseproof paper, in the middle of some of the singin hinnies. -- posted by French Tart

Fresh Figs With Stilton and Walnuts in a Honey Drizzle Dressing

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:59:58 -0400

A new fig recipe for this year! Similar to my Recipe #250866 but with blue cheese and a honey drizzle dressing. I like to tuck a few fig leaves amongst the salad for colour........but please do wipe them first! Serve these figs with crusty bread, some mixed herb and salad leaves.......and a glass of chilled wine. Quantities for figs depend on the size; allow one or two large figs per person or, between three and six for medium to small figs.This makes a fabulous dinner party starter, or a light salad for lunch..........I sometimes serve this for the cheese course too, for something a little different. -- posted by French Tart

Irish and Scottish Gaelic Soda Bread Scones

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:00:40 -0400

Delicious and easy to make soda bread scones, which are perfect when served alongside soups, stews or an Irish or Scottish breakfast. These can be whipped up in a trice and make a nice alternative to bread.........they are also delectable when eaten hot, split and spread with fresh butter. -- posted by French Tart

Scottish Lorne Sausages: Square Breakfast Sausage!

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:02:17 -0400

Wherever you go in Scotland you will come across Scottish Lorne Sausage, which are square and sliced. Whether you be in a Hotel, a Guest House or a Bed and Breakfast, you will be offered a Scottish cooked breakfast, that will usually include the slices of this Scottish Lorne sausage. It is nearly always on a breakfast menu, along with bacon, egg, and "tattie" (potato) scones, and many Scots will eat it in a bread roll for lunch or maybe serve it with potatoes and vegetables for dinner. This is an easy recipe - and the sausage can be frozen in slices for ease and convenience. Prep time includes chilling time. What's in a name? It is thought that the Lorne sausage, which also goes by the names of square sausage, sliced sausage or sausage slice, was an invention of the Scottish comedian Tommy Lorne who lived from 1890 and died in 1935. He was born in Kirkintilloch near Glasgow. His birth name was Hugh Gallagher Corcoran. Tommy Lorne performed in many Scottish theatres and often performed in Glasgow and Edinburgh and was much in demand for pantomime. In his own acts he would apply white make-up and wear a short kilt, a glengarry, boots that were far too big for him and a jacket that was short. He spoke in an hilarious high pitched voice. It is thought that Lorne sausages were named after Tommy Lorne because of one of his famous catchphrase: "sausages are the boys" - he loved his sausages! He often ate a sausage sandwich between his acts. It has even been suggested that not only were Lorne sausages named after Tommy Lorne and to give people an easy to make sausage sandwich, but that Tommy Lorne was the inventor of the Lorne sausage. -- posted by French Tart

Healthier $#%& Beef Stroganoff

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:19:21 -0400

I love Stroganoff but it's so fattening. I took Bri22's fantastic recipe and tried to keep the flavour while making it a bit better for you. I love it and my guinea pigs (guests) were asking for seconds. Note: I always sauté with olive oil but you could use butter too. I also put extra sour cream on the table for anyone who likes theirs creamier. -- posted by Chef #1209227

German Toffee (Sahne-Bonbon)

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:08:20 -0400

This recipe makes just a small amount of creamy, delicious toffee. A great back-to-school treat. I used to make this super simple toffee with my mother and grandmother when I was a child, and it was my favorite candy! I've translated the recipe from a very old and treasured German children's cookbook. -- posted by BecR

Irish Feather Gingerbread Cake

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:05:41 -0400

A beautiful, spicy Cake traditionally served anytime, but very popular at Christmas. It's made in a bundt pan. The addition of Guiness stout makes for a light and feathery texture. Recipe comes from 'The Irish Spirit' cookbook I love so much. Serve this dark, spicy confection with fresh whipping cream. -- posted by DiLo

Inspirational Goat's Cheese on Garlic Ciabatta Toast

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:18:49 -0400

Toasted goat's cheese on toast that has been spread with garlic paste.......and then served on mixed salad leaves - brilliant! I am hooked on Nigel Slater's new programme, "Simple Suppers", where he prepares and cooks food just the way I like it...........fresh, seasonal, unpretentious, flexible and hearty. This is one of Nigel's "Inspirational" recipes that was shown on his first programme. In the absence of ciabatta bread, I would be inclined to use any rustic bread........with lots of body! (Recipe from NIgel Slater's Simple Suppers and the Digin site.) -- posted by French Tart

Terrific and Tasty Tidy Friday Pan Fry!

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:41:32 -0400

Another BRILLIANT idea from Nigel Slater and his new programme, "Simple Suppers". I love the idea of this, and can see all sorts of possibilities for what to "raid" from the fridge at the end of the week. I like his suggestions for bacon and bangers, and especially when served with crisp, green cabbage. An excellent, hearty supper dish and one that would be great for the children too - the greens being "hidden" amongst all the spuds, bacon and sausages etc! (By Nigel Slater. From Nigel Slater's Simple Suppers.) -- posted by French Tart

Lamb Curry

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:46:50 -0400

Curry is a dish that has the reputation of being very spicy. You can control this by adjusting the curry powder to your tastes. I think you will find that this recipe is moderate, and needs little adjustment. From the Williamsburg cookbook, this is an authentic colonial dish brought from India via England. It may date from as early as the 14th Century. Serve with rice, salad and veggie for a full meal. -- posted by Lauren4372

The Witchery by the Castle Gates Steak Balmoral and Whisky Sauce

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:28:42 -0400

An excellent recipe for traditional Scottish Steak Balmoral, as served at the famous "The Witchery" restaurant located in Edinburgh, Scotland at the very top of the Royal Mile near the gates of beautiful Edinburgh Castle. The "Old Hell Fire Club" used to hold their meetings in this historic sixteenth century building. We prefer tender Aberdeen angus filet steaks in this first-rate recipe, but sirloin steaks or rib-eyes are just as good. Do try to use a very high quality beef, if possible. You can carefully flambe the whisky in step 2, but I usually don't bother as I find it boils down quickly enough into the divinely smooth and mellow sauce without the extra step. Serve these steaks with steamed new potatoes or baked potatoes, and seasonal greens or a tossed salad. -- posted by BecR

Vendange Harvest Sausages With Grapes, Thyme and Wine

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:05:46 -0400

A traditional Italian or French dish--called 'Salsiccia all'Uva' in Italian-- typically served from large vats at Vendange autumn grape harvest celebrations. Quite popular here in the Southern California Wine Country, as well! Preferably use a meaty best quality pork sausage which is lean and not highly seasoned (allow 1 or 2 sausages per person). I like to use a mixture of sweet and hot Italian sausages or local smoked chicken and apple sausage, but any good meaty sausage will do. Serve piping hot with potatoes or pasta, assorted cheeses, a good baguette or rustic peasant bread, and a bottle of the year's new vintage Beaujolais Nouveau or Gamay Beaujolais wine! -- posted by BecR

London's Borough Market Chocolate Brownies

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:50:00 -0400

Borough market brownie-maker Matt Jones shared his infamous dense chocolate brownie recipe on BBC Good Food, and I am posting it here for safe-keeping! For anyone who has tasted one of these brownies, the experience is sublime.......deep, intense and chewy brownies that are packed full of lucious chocolate! Borough Market is London's oldest food market, its origins date back from the time when the Romans built the original London Bridge. And, although it has moved from where it was originally established, Borough Market has occupied its current site for the last 250 years. You can find both food and non-food items in this market, but locals regularly go here to get fresh produce from various parts of the British Isles. One of the most popular foodie treats in the market, is the ostrich burger, as well as these delicious brownies. Makes 12 LARGE squidgy brownies. -- posted by French Tart

Queen Victoria's Brown Windsor Soup

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:19:28 -0400

The very soup reputed to have built the British Empire and one that was oh-so-fashionable in Victorian and Edwardian times! This soup was served daily, until recently, in the dining cars of British Rail. This classic hearty soup was also very popular at the castle (Windsor) in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Queen Victoria was particularly fond of it, and it regularly appeared on state banquet menus. However, this recipe has not had very good press over recent years - drab tinned brands and indifferent, greasy soups served in some lower end restaurants have given it a bad culinary name! I hope to redress that with this authentic recipe from Windsor in Berkshire, England - home to the Royal Windsor Castle. A rich and hearty soup, this makes a meal in itself when served with crusty bread, scones or bread rolls. -- posted by French Tart

Spice Cake

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:53:52 -0400

This is, in my mind, the taste of autumn placed into a cake. I highly suggest letting it cool, slightly then rubbing butter all over the cake, while the cake is still warm enough to melt the butter. I use a cake mixer for this so the mixing goes a little smoother, than by hand. -- posted by ReeceB

Spiced Autumn Walnut and Golden Syrup Tart-Pie

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:58:40 -0400

This sticky and lightly spiced walnut tart is absolutely perfect for any autumn gathering, especially Thanksgiving, Halloween or Bonfire Night. It combines walnuts together with warm spices and a hint of orange, which are all bound together in a buttery syrup filling.......if you cannot get hold of golden syrup, you can use honey instead. Serve this pie with a dollop of cream, crème fraiche or yoghurt. -- posted by French Tart

Oregano Lamb Steaks With Lemon, Olive Oil and Feta Cheese Mash

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:49:02 -0400

Grilled lamb steaks served with a tangy lemon, feta cheese, and herby olive oil mash; this simple supper has bags of hearty, robust flavours, and is very easy to whip up. I always make extra feta, lemon and olive oil mash, so it can be used as a dip or a sandwich filling for another meal. Try to use fresh herbs wherever possible, they have a softer and more subtle flavour and truly make the lamb steaks sing! Serve this supper dish with jacket potatoes and a fresh mixed salad. The flavours in this recipe remind me of hot sunny days by the seaside here in South West France, the distant fragrance of herbs mingling with the salty air........free-range lamb would also be good - especially hill reared lamb that has a distinct herby flavour in the meat. I serve this in true French fashion with a glass of chilled Rosé wine. Bon appétit! (The inspiration for this dish came from Nigel Slater's wonderful grilled lamb with feta and lemon recipe..........I have altered it enough to call it mine though!) -- posted by French Tart

Porchetta - Italian Marketplace Pulled Pork Sandwich (Crock Pot)

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:12:23 -0400

Tender succulent boneless pork roast is rubbed with olive oil and seasonings and slowly roasted to perfection in the crock pot until it is falling apart, then stuffed into warmed and buttered Italian ciabatta rolls. A wonderfully simplified version of the classic Porchetta Italian Market Place Sandwich by Nigella Lawson. -- posted by BecR

Tangy, Zesty Oil and Vinegar Potato Salad

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:48:18 -0400

The best potato salad you've never had. For when your craving that certain ZING from vinegar...I don't like regular potato salad. I don't like sweet relish, eggs, or miracle whip in my potato salad. The sharp onion with the vinegar balances the soft potato texture. Inexpensive and college budget approved. For more of a bite, add two to three teaspoons of whole grain mustard along with the olive oil. Try this!! Yumm....From Bon Appetit, 2009. **Note: To use smaller potatoes, cook time is about 5 minutes less. -- posted by College Girl

An Indoor Camembert Picnic Platter for Parties and Fêtes!

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:05:54 -0400

Picnic like the French with a perfectly ripe Camembert, some garlicky sausage and a fresh, crusty baguette - eh voila! No need to go outside for a picnic, if the weather is inclement; enjoy a picnic in your kitchen at the kitchen table, or use the cheese platter as a centrepiece for parties, fêtes, cocktails or social gatherings! Lay a tartan rug on the table and use wicker baskets or a hamper if you wish...........be as "rustique" or as "chic" as you want to be! Great for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year, as well as for a summer picnics of course! -- posted by French Tart

Basic Garlic and Oil Sauce for Perfect Pasta (Rachael Ray)

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:11:53 -0400

If you like pasta, you're going to LOVE this recipe from Everyday With Rachael Ray's magazine (Oct '09). She has a "secret ingredient" that adds an unexpected zest to the ordinary ingredients: anchovies. She notes in her recipe that " even if you think you don't like anchovies, you should try this recipe--it'll change your mind." Further, she points out that "once you heat anchovies, they stop tasting like fish and start tasting more like salted nuts." So: try it, you'll like it! If you must, don't say anything to the diners--and ask them if they like it, before you reveal the "secret ingredient." -- posted by Debber

A Grape Picker's Lunch! Sausages and Lentils With Thyme and Wine

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:19:42 -0400

I am lucky enough to live in the Cognac and Pineau grape growing area of South West France - we also grow grapes for the excellent local (Charente-Maritime) wine in this area. Our woodman, Monsieur Jacquot, has a small chateau with several vineyards, and every year we are invited to join in on the first or last day of the "Vendange" - the grape harvest. And, every year, Madame Jacquot prepares and cooks the most delicious food for all of the grape pickers, family and invited friends. This year (2009) the harvest started on the 1st October, and this is the dish she made for us, served simply with fresh salads, assorted local breads, local butter, cheese and of course local wine, pineau and cognac. I asked her for the recipe and she rattled out the ingredients at a rapid pace, whilst I scribbled them down on the back of an envelope! I have recreated this recipe at home twice now, and this is ALMOST as good as hers is! (Mind you, she set hers out on long tables with white linen and beautiful old vintage crockery.......I found out that the white linen were bed sheets! NEVER used on a bed she stressed, kept for large gatherings.) The key to this recipe is SIMPLICITY and GOOD sausages and wine. I used local Toulouse sausages, meaty and with a high 85% meat content. But you can use ANY good, meaty sausages that you have available locally - I bet high quality venison or Angus beef sausages would be brilliant in this dish. Also, DO try to source Lentilles Vert de Puy green Puy lentils; they make all the difference to this wonderful harvest dish. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we did, sitting at the long table in the old barn, under ancient beams and with beaming faces and loud laughter. ( PS: I cut this recipe RIGHT back from 30 people to just 4! Please adjust the amounts to suit.) -- posted by French Tart

Bed and Breakfast Spiced Pumpkin Scones With Honey Butter

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:04:21 -0500

Gorgeous spiced pumpkin scones with honey butter - what a treat for the tea-time table during autumn and winter. I have made these twice now and love the combination of the honey butter with the scones, although they are also delicious with plain unsalted butter. This recipe came from an Australian "Olive" magazine that was sent to me, apparently, Queensland is famous for its blue pumpkins where this recipe originates from - I added the spices as well as the honey butter! A wonderful recipe for the cooler months, but as it uses tinned or frozen pumpkin, these can be made all year around. If you don't want to serve these with the honey butter, just split them whilst warm and spread with normal butter or cream. Mixed spice is a British spice mixture, I have a recipe for this on RZ: Recipe #266688 -- posted by French Tart

Ricciarelli - Italian Almond Cookies

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:27:09 -0500

Fantastic intense almond cookies from the Tuscan town of Siena, Italy. These wonderful cookies are very popular year around, but especially at Christmas time! -- posted by BecR

Dutch Amandelspijs (Sort of Marcipan)

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:35:15 -0500

In holland we eat this inside speculaas (spice bread/cookie) in december, when Sinterklaas comes around :o) -- posted by mamaDlicious

French Pear Hot Toddy

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:13:33 -0500

A delicious hot-coffee drink in the French style, made with apricot brandy and Poire Willliam eau de vie. This is a variation of a very old French recipe. -- posted by BecR

Traditional Scottish Pure Butter Shortbread Cookies - Biscuits

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:49:57 -0500

Scotland's favorite tea-time or Christmas Holiday cookie! The very best fresh dairy butter is a requirement in these cookies, for flavor. Make them into squares or "Petticoat Tails", or any shape you wish. Great for gift giving. Our family favorite recipe, adapted from "Having Tea". -- posted by BecR

Coconut Ice - Old-Fashioned Sweet Shop Coconut Candy

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:49:09 -0500

A trip down Memory Lane! This is my mum's recipe for Coconut Ice, little coconut squares which are coloured pink and white, and used to be popular in old-fashioned British sweet (candy) shops. My mum used to make trays and trays of these for our Church fêtes, as well as for Christmas and for gifts. These lovely little coconut morsels are very popular in Scotland where I think my mum's recipe originated either from my Scottish grandmother or an auntie. These are great fun to make with the children, as they are easy as well as being "no-cook". If you plan to make them for gifts or to sell, pack them into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients and storage details. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Christmas Deli Salad With Pomegranate, Parma Ham and Gorgonzola

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 01:59:21 -0500

A fabulous wilted salad boasting the rich, festive colours of vibrant crimson reds and lush holly greens, as well as being full of flavour - this is simply a wonderful salad for the Christmas, New Year or Thanksgiving family table. Please do use any blue cheese or ham of your choice; Stilton or Roquefort would be lovely as well as Prosciutto or Bayonne ham.......and, if you are serving any vegetarians, just leave the ham out of the equation! The dressing can be made up a few hours or a day beforehand, just wilt the leaves and assemble the salad right before serving. Serve this salad with crusty rolls or some thinly sliced rye bread and a glass of chilled Rosé or Chardonnay. -- posted by French Tart

Quick and Easy French Cognac and Crème Fraiche Ice Cream

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 02:09:28 -0500

This is a really easy ice cream to whip up and one that I make every Christmas to go with the Christmas pudding and with my annual Rumtopf or Brandied Cherries and Apricots. You can make it in an ice cream maker if you have one, but as it is a non-custard base ice cream, it works just as well without an ice cream maker. It lasts for one month in the freezer and is a great addition to the summer dining table too! -- posted by French Tart

Mock Gefilte Fish

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:23:42 -0500

Both my father and my aunt served this during those months, when fresh carp is not available. There are many versions of " Gefilte Fish", "Fish Balls", "Falsher Fish" or what my dad called "Polish Carp". Theirs was sweeter than most others I sampled, but it must closely resemble the taste they remembered from their home in Sosnowitz, Poland. Unfortunately I could not ask them for their recipe, so I adapted the one I found in Harriet Roth's "Deliciously Healthy Jewish Cooking". -- posted by soscha

Festive Sugar Plums - Old Fashioned Sweetmeats

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:37:27 -0500

I love the Nutcracker Ballet and the music that accompanies it, especially the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies! These fabulous little festive sweetmeats are based on a recipe that I adapted from Delia Smith's latest and BRILLIANT cookbook, "Happy Christmas". I have made these TWICE already - as a pre-Christmas dummy run, and they are SO easy as well as being extremely delicious! Sugar plums are mentioned in all forms of literature; most famously in The Night Before ChristmasThe children were nestled, all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads". However, they are a VERY old kind of sweet/candy, and I have traced some recipes right back to the Middle Ages in one guise or another, usually with minced meat hence sweet meat. This recipe can be made as a boozy after dinner adult treat, or with orange juice so the children can dream of them dancing in their heads! NB: These are great fun to make with the children, as they are easy as well as being "no-cook". If you plan to make them for gifts or to sell, pack them into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients and storage details. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Jewel Studded Holiday Fudge With Ginger and Cranberries

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:42:20 -0500

A delectable holiday fudge, which is the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. This buttery, crumbly fudge is enhanced and made more festive by studding it with rich, jewel-like fruit. If you do not have stem ginger handy, you can use crystallised ginger or glace ginger instead. Making fudge the proper way involves using a sugar, jam or candy thermometer - or you can use the "soft ball" method if you do not have a suitable thermometer. Drop a small spoonful of the fudge into cold water, if it forms a malleable soft ball, the setting temperature has been reached. If you plan to make this fudge for gifts or to sell, pack the squares into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Italian Meat Bars

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:37:54 -0500

Spicy and flavorful italian meats in a soft, chewy and rich pastry crust. A favorite in our house and often requested for pot-luck gatherings, especially around the holidays! I got this recipe from a coworker years ago who just gave me general directions, and have spent a few years refining it. -- posted by CityGirlExiledToASmallTown

Roast Goose from the Plaza Hotel

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 14:20:19 -0500

from The Plaza in New York, roast goose makes the best gravy... and be prepared to scoop out loads of fat as it's roasting -- -- posted by carrie sheridan

Mousse De Turbot from the Plaza Hotel

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:48:01 -0500

from New York's premier hotel, a classic sole mousse -- -- posted by carrie sheridan

St. Mark's Swedish Meatballs

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:37:48 -0500

I found this recipe years ago in the church cookbook my grandmother gave to each of her grandchildren. I have spent many Christmas's with my cousin Heidi and we have made and enjoyed these together. I can't tell you if this is an authentic Swedish meatball, just that the church has a large population with Swedish roots. -- posted by Gunnerbun

Boxing Day Festive Roast Pumpkin and Cheese Lasagne - Lasagna

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:27:54 -0500

Roasted pumpkin and creamy cheese lasagne (lasagna); a Boxing Day special - although I have made this for Christmas Eve too! This is a wonderful addition to the festive vegetarian table, but is ALSO hugely popular with meat eaters. This is my adapted version of Nigella Lawson's pumpkin lasagne; I have changed a few of the methods and added (as well as omitted) a few ingredients! Boxing day is the day after Christmas day, also called St Stephens Day the 26th December; it is a public holiday in the UK and most Commonwealth countries.generally a turkey curry day, or a turkey-free day, one of the two! Serve this with a large bowl of salad and some crusty bread for mopping up the delicious sauce. -- posted by French Tart

The Easiest Latkes

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:07:09 -0500

Beautiful, crisp latkes, made in minutes -- posted by Gabimir

Buttered Pecan, Cranberry and Apricot Sausage Stuffing Loaf

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:49:04 -0500

A wonderful stuffing recipe for your turkey or indeed lamb, beef or game birds - this is baked in a bread (loaf) tin and looks very impressive when turned out, as well as being easy to slice and serve. It can also be served as an alternative type of "meatloaf" with salad, pickles and chutneys........or even better, in sandwiches. I have also made this as a vegetarian option, leaving out the sausage meat and adding more breadcrumbs to the stuffing loaf. -- posted by French Tart

Truly British Brandy Butter: for Festive Figgy and Plum Pudding!

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 18:07:31 -0500

Make your own brandy butter to smother over delicious, homemade Christmas Figgy or Plum pudding, and in only 5 minutes with this easy recipe,..........no Christmas table would be without this "naughty but nice" accompaniment! This is also wonderful when served with hot mince pies......prise open the pastry lids and dollop some brandy butter inside, preferably when they are warm, so the brandy butter runs through the pies! This makes a great gift - pack the brand butter into an attractive pot and add serving instructions. . -- posted by French Tart

Krostule

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:28:56 -0500

Krustules is a Croation dessert. This recipe came from my Aunt Pauline. I make it every year at Thanksgiving and Christmas to share with my family. Krustule are time consuming to make, but my family enjoys them so much it is worth the time. Thanks to the first review of this dessert I was able to get the correct spelling of this Croation dessert. (I was spelling it as Krustlers.) -- posted by Lighthouse Rita

After the Party is Over! Refreshing Detox Fresh Fruit Salad

Sun, 27 Dec 2009 14:50:57 -0500

A wonderful brunch recipe for the morning after or when you need an early boost for a busy day ahead; although this is super healthy and refreshing, I have also served this as the dessert dish for a buffet, BUT with champagne as the liquid instead of orange juice! (Just another idea for dressing this fresh fruit salad up with frills!) This is not only healthy, but it is SO festive and colourful - my photo shows the one I made this Boxing Day (26th December), I usually add kiwi fruit too, but we had run out of them.......oooops! My quantities listed here make enough for 6 to 8 people, but this can be increased as well as reduced to suit personal requirements. I normally serve this with crème fraiche or vanilla yoghurt, but its also wonderful when served naked, the salad that is, not me! The fruits I have suggested are rich in vitamins and antioxidants for a quick mental boost, as well as a rapid detox to aid recovery after a heavy night or after indulging in rich food, but please do adapt this to your own seasonal and local produce if you wish. -- posted by French Tart

Christmas Cardamom Cookies

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:39:29 -0500

Delicate green,pink and white sugar cookie flavored with cardamon and almond extract. An original recipe of mine often requested. -- posted by red and white kitchen

Kolacky

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 01:14:41 -0500

My Moms' traditional recipe. You can fill with your favorite fruit flavors. Our family loves apricot, cherry and raspberry. This recipe uses 2 1/2 cans of Solo cake & pastry filling so choose your favorite three flavors. Dough must be refrigerated overnight before baking. -- posted by red and white kitchen

Baccala Salad

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 02:04:37 -0500

courtesy Raos Restaurant -- posted by Phil Franco

Grandpa Frank's Panettone

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:48:20 -0500

This fruited Italian holiday yeast bread has been a favorite of my family as long as I can remember. I learned to make it from my grandfather, whose mother made this for him as a child in Sicily. -- posted by Linda in Madison, VA

Moms Italian Baccala christmas Salad (Saltcod)

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 17:25:50 -0500

My mom makes this at Christmas time. Im not a big fan of it but everyone else in the family loves it. Its a simple dish. *BUY the dried salted cod at least 24 hours before needed, you would need to rinse it many times, place in bowl cover with cold water and keep changing the water every 6 hours. -- posted by Phil Smith

Williams-Sonoma Chicken Breasts With Mustard Sauce

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 14:52:29 -0500

A simple and quick chicken saute--a restaurant quality chicken dinner ready on your table in just 30 minutes! The key to this recipe's success comes in flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking them. They will cook evenly and stay perfectly moist throughout. Fabulous served with peas or asparagus spears, along with pan-fried or mashed potatoes. Recipe is a seriously adapted one, originally from Williams-Sonoma. -- posted by BecR

Apple Tart Tatin

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 11:51:11 -0500

From the delectable crust to the luscious caramel/apple filling, this beautiful tart from Chef Anne Burrell is a taste delight! You will need a 10" nonstick, ovenproof pan. A couple of suggestions I got from FN: you may want to cut up a couple of extra apples to pack into the caramel since the apples cook down so much; OR, after baking and before unmolding, drain off excess liquid and use it to sweeten the mascarpone instead of sugar. Recipe does not reflect inactive prep time. I hope you enjoy this as much as we do! -- posted by ninja

Fortnum and Masons Authentic Scotch Eggs With Sausage and Herbs

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:06:45 -0500

Freshly boiled eggs are encased in a herb flavoured sausage jacket and are then deep-fried until golden and crisp, delicious! Contrary to popular belief, Scotch eggs are not Scottish, and they were actually invented by the famous London department store Fortnum & Mason in 1738, where they are still available today. The word "Scotch" is an old English word meaning to chop or mince, and obviously, the eggs are covered with chopped or minced pork sausage meat, hence the name Scotch Eggs. They are traditional British picnic food but I also like to serve them as a light lunch or snack, and they make a wonderful addition to the buffet table. These tasty traditional English specialities have had bad press over the years; mainly down to commercial mass production, but if you make them at home with fresh, free-range eggs and the best quality sausage meat, they will taste divine, and they will always be the stars of the picnic hamper or family lunch table! PLEASE use high quality sausage meat or sausages, with at least 70% meat content.Historical Note: Founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason (F&M) stocks "food fit for a queen". The 300-year-old British department store, famous for its jams, teas, and sauces, provides the Queen with her annual supply of Christmas puddings and holds the "Royal Warrant. -- posted by French Tart

Buttermilk and Sour Cherry Scones for Afternoon Tea and Picnics

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:23:23 -0500

A delightful and EASY scone recipe that is perfect for a proper afternoon tea or to take on a picnic. Dried sour cherries are sensational and give a deep essence of cherry flavour to these scones, whilst the buttermilk makes them light and airy. This is a casual eating scone, easy to rustle up, and is perfect when eaten fresh from the oven with butter and maybe some cherry jam and cream too! If taking on a picnic, wrap the scone in a clean tea towel to keep it warm and pack the butter and jam separately. Makes one large scone, which is marked to split into wedges when served. -- posted by French Tart

Irish Rarebit on Soda Bread With Cheddar Cheese and Ale

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:32:04 -0500

An easy and very tasty rarebit dish made with Irish cheddar cheese and the ubiquitous Irish ale, Guinness. The Emerald Isle produces some great dairy products and none is better than their butter and Cheddar style cheese. This recipe has Ireland written right the way through it, using soda bread as the base for this cheesy snack, as well as the aforementioned cheese and ale. I have also made these to eat with a bowl of hearty soup or Irish stew, perfect for a cold or damp winter's day. Amazing high tea time food as well; served with salad, chutneys and pickles for a cheap and easy fire-side supper. -- posted by French Tart

Capuzzi

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:55:57 -0500

This is my attempt at my mother's recipe. For some reason, it comes out different every time I make it. This side dish was always served at my family's holiday dinners. I love it so much I don't wait for the holidays to make it. Though we claim it's a traditional dish from the Istria-Venezia-Giulia region of Italy, I know some Polish and Hungarian families that make it. Always use sauerkraut from a bag, not canned. -- posted by Ingrid Nicolich-Obregon

Dean and Deluca's Authentic Bavarian Sauerbraten Pot Roast

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:33:49 -0500

Sauerbraten is, quite simply, the best pot roast that we know of. Though we normally stay away from top round as a braising beef -- because it's so relatively lean -- we like to use it for sauerbraten, which requires intact slices of beef to be served at the table. Top round keeps its shape very well, and, in this dish, comes to the table quite moist -- due to the long marination and the long cooking time. To insure the moistness of the beef, have the butcher leave a thin outer covering of fat around the top round. Serve this deep, dark, sweet-and-sour treat with red cabbage recipe #108449 and boiled new potatoes (salzkartoffel) or spaetzle. Serves 4 -- posted by BecR

Melted Foie Gras on Country Bread With Armagnac

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 20:19:36 -0500

This fabulous Dean and Deluca recipe was inspired by an extraordinary restaurant near Baden-Baden, in Germany. The chef sautéed thick slices of country bread in duck fat, with garlic, then simply melted very thin slices of fresh foie gras over the bread. Though it's astoundingly simple to do, it's a mightily impressive starter for a lusty dinner party. Serves 4 as a first course. -- posted by BecR

Monday Supper! Curried Lamb and Chutney Rissoles/Patties

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:13:25 -0500

A tasty and different way to use some of the Sunday Roast leftovers on Monday! Although I have specified lamb in this recipe, beef would also work very well, it's just that I had roast lamb leftovers when I made these. These rissoles are lightly spiced and tangy - perfect for supper when served with salad, pickles, chutneys and maybe a naan bread or pitta bread to make a sandwich. They are easily made and can be prepared ahead of time and left in the fridge, as they hold their shape better when they have been chilled and are firm. These will also freeze very well; open freeze them before frying on a tray or plate until firm and then pack them into freezer bags or a plastic container. They only need about 6 hours to defrost and then are cooked as instructed below.Use curry powder to taste, I use 2 teaspoons as I like mine quite spicy! -- posted by French Tart

Turkey and Earl Grey Honey Butter Tea Sandwiches

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:35:28 -0500

You don't have to be British to enjoy these wonderful tea-time sandwiches! From about.com. -- posted by BecR

Making a Perfect Cup or Pot of Tea

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 18:07:55 -0500

From "Victorian Tea Party". Afternoon and High tea were daily events in Victorian society in England and ladies tea parties were very popular. The table was beautifully set with the household's best bone china, beautifully prepared sandwiches and treats were served and tea was carefully brewed to ensure the very best flavor. In 1880, Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management was published - here is what she had to say about making tea the proper way: "There is very little art in making good tea; if the water is boiling, and there is no sparing of the fragrant leaf, the beverage will almost invariably be good. The old-fashioned plan of allowing a teaspoonful to each person, and one over, is still practised. Warm the teapot with boiling water; let it remain for two or three minutes for the vessel to become thoroughly hot, then pour it away. Put in the tea, pour in from 1/2 to 3/4 pint of boiling water, close the lid, and let it stand for the tea to draw from 5 to 10 minutes; then fill up the pot with water. The tea will be quite spoiled unless made with water that is actually boiling, as the leaves will not open, and the flavour not be extracted from them; the beverage will consequently be colourless and tasteless,in fact, nothing but tepid water. Where there is a very large party to make tea for, it is a good plan to have two teapots instead of putting a large quantity of tea into one pot; the tea, besides, will go farther. When the infusion has been once completed, the addition of fresh tea adds very little to the strength; so, when more is required, have the pot emptied of the old leaves, scalded, and fresh tea made in the usual manner. Economists say that a few grains of carbonate of soda, added before the boiling water is poured on the tea, assist to draw out the goodness: if the water is very hard, perhaps it is a good plan, as the soda softens it; but care must be taken to use this ingredient sparingly, as it is liable to give the tea a soapy taste if added in too large a quantity. For mixed tea, the usual proportion is four spoonfuls of black to one of green; more of the latter when the flavour is very much liked; but strong green tea is highly pernicious, and should never be partaken of too freely." -- posted by BecR

Best Ever Red & White Sauce Lasagna

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:04:10 -0500

This is the absolute best tasting lasagna I have ever had. The red sauce offers sweetness and the white sauce gives it a warm creaminess. I came up with this recipe for my sister who doesn't eat pork, but have made it many times with traditional pork Italian sausage. Either way its yummy, hearty and sure to impress. -- posted by Shamrockjulie

Elegant Tarragon and Tomato Butter Tea Sandwiches

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 09:56:30 -0500

These delightful and rather unusual tea sandwiches combine the delicate French herb tarragon, with ripe tomatoes, garlic and shallots a change from the usual basil and tomatoes. The tomatoes are gently poached with all the seasonings until a thick puree or butter is obtained; the tomato butter is then cooled and you are left with a wondrous sandwich filling, bursting with flavour and colour! The butter can be used for all manner of things, including a topping for a pizza or for toasted sandwiches. Use fresh bread, white or wholemeal, and garnish with fresh tarragon leaves. Any excess butter can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. NB: Prep time includes chilling time for the butter. -- posted by French Tart

Victorian Watercress Tea Sandwiches for High Tea and Picnics

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:20:30 -0500

During Victorian times, children used to take watercress sandwiches to school in place of meat ones. I love them, especially when cut into small trianges and served with a cuppa (cup of tea!). Use the freshest bread - I like to use wholemeal, and a fresh salted farmhouse butter. I have inlcluded a soup idea at the end of the recipe, to be made with the excess stalks! So a soup and sandwich recipe then! -- posted by French Tart

A Mere Trifle! Strawberries and Clotted Cream Trifle

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:20:30 -0500

Luscious fresh strawberries nestle amongst light sponge cake sandwiched with strawberry jam, which are then covered with creamy custard and topped with clotted cream. Simple! This trifle may be simple but it is the star on any tea-time or dessert table and if you cannot obtain clotted cream, use whipping cream, heavy cream or double cream instead. Madeira is used in place of sherry in this trifle, which gives a mellow flavour to the trifle. This is a recipe that my mum sent to me, from a cutting in a British magazine promoting Devon and Cornwall in the West Country - home of the Cream Tea! If you wish to serve this to children or non-drinkers, substitute the Madeira with fruit juice of your choice. In the summer scatter some pink rose petals over the top for the ultimate and romantic finish! (Prep time includes the chilling and soaking time.) -- posted by French Tart

Pain DÉpices - Spiced French Gingerbread Loaf With Honey

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:20:36 -0500

A French classic and one that I will me making myself from now on, having just paid a small fortune for a tiny, if delicious loaf from my local boulangerie! This is a cross between sticky ginger parkin and a gingerbread cake or a tea loaf. It is not as moist as parkin or gingerbread, but it is extremely good when spread with butter or even better, when toasted.......divine! It is also surprisingly good when served with cheese. Another idea that I discovered in a local café, is to serve it warm with a dollop of crème fraiche and a little bunch of fresh berries on top, a perfect dessert for an elegant dinner party! This improves with keeping and makes a wonderful gift for a foodie friend or hostess wrap in cellophane and attach a ribbon with serving suggestions. If you cannot source Quatre Épices, I have a recipe on zaar to make it at home! Recipe #283280 -- posted by French Tart

Nigella's Blackberry Trifle With Creamy Limoncello Mascarpone

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:43:16 -0500

Serve this elegant and refreshing layered dessert in a trifle dish or individual dessert glasses for a fabulous ending to any meal! Perfect for Valentine's Day or other romantic occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or Afternoon tea. Inspired by a Nigella Lawson recipe. -- posted by BecR