Brazilian Feijoada - Black Bean Stew with Beef and Pork

There are likely many versions of Brazilian Feijoada, with each family claiming that their tradition is the right one. After all, it is a national dish with roots in the country's past, including making the most of whatever ingredients are on hand. 

Feijoada actually has roots in Brazil's slaveholding past (Milk Street Magazine, March, 2022) and it was made with whatever bits of meat, pork ears, tails, feet, and tongue that were leftover from the slaveholders meals. The meat was cooked low and slow with black beans. 

Cod, Leek, and Potato Chowder

This cod, leek, and potato chowder is super creamy and comes together very quickly. Pair it with a glass of chardonnay for a wine that holds up well to the richness of this soup. 

This cod chowder is a wonderful combination of a creamy fish stock base along with leeks, celery, carrots, potatoes, onions, and herbs. It all comes together in less than 30 minutes if you prep your ingredients in advance. It's the perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner. 

Pan di Ramerino (Rosemary Raisin Buns)

Pan di Ramerino are little rosemary, olive oil, and raisin buns from Tuscany, originally served on Holy Thursday right before Easter. Now you can find these sweet and savory treats in Tuscan bakeries any time of year. 

These buns are lightly sweet from the raisins and a bit of sugar. They also have a savory side with rosemary infused olive oil added to the dough. They are easy to make and can easily be prepared in just a few hours. They would be definitely be a fun project to make with kids.  

Tangerine Ricotta Cake

This tangerine ricotta cake is a dessert that you can bake ahead. It is actually better and more moist on the second or third day. 

I love the moistness that ricotta brings to desserts. Some of my favorites include blueberry lemon ricotta tea cake, ricotta chocolate chip cookies, and tangerine ricotta cookies. Of course, I love it for making savory dishes such as lasagna or breakfast tomato and ricotta toast. 

Chicken Pot Pies

These chicken pot pies are pure comfort food and totally tasty. They are a wonderful "go-to" meal for family gatherings and dinner parties. 

I have made this recipe quite a few times. Everytime I serve these chicken pot pies, those at the table quickly earn memberships to the "clean plate club." 

Corn and Edamame Salad

The flavors in this corn and edamame salad go together so deliciously, and the dressing has become one of my new favorites. 

This salad is so colorful and the flavor is so bright. With an array of crunchy vegetables and a dressing that includes hot sauce, this salad stands out on its own. 

Kung Pao Noodles

These kung pao noodles are easy to make and loaded with flavor. The sauce, flavored with seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the noodles. 

These noodles are also loaded with tasty and crunchy vegetables, along with a sprinkling of roasted peanuts.