I’m Liz Baloutine and I want to save the world. Or perhaps the environment. Is there a difference really? I’m an idealist. I love plants and the beauty they bring into our lives. I believe starting vegetable gardens influences people to take more of an interest in planting in their homes and experimenting with fresh food. Seedlings Gardening is my contribution to local, sustainable, healthy [...] Read more »
End of Season Lettuce
Wondering what to do with all that lettuce you just pulled out of your garden? At the end of the season it can often be a bit bitter. Meg Schwartz Chef and owner of Spoon & Co. Catering had a couple great ideas. Crunchy Lettuce Salad Chop your crunchier lettuces and toss them with julienned jicama and crumbled cotija cheese. Make a dressing with three [...] Read more »
Borage
It’s an herb with fuzzy leaves and the most beautiful blue flowers. The whole plant is edible leaves, stock and flowers. Borage has a crisp flavor similar to cucumbers. Candy the flowers, add the young leaves to yogurt, sate it, or use it in soups. Borage is a versatile herb. Here are some of my favorite suggestions. Garnish a Cocktail Borage brings out the cucumber [...] Read more »
Brine A Turkey, Dai Due–Style
My Thanksgiving starts with the smell of maple syrup mingled with fresh coffee. Friends gather in the kitchen, bringing ingredients over. The day is filled with wine, conversations, and a freshly brined turkey in the oven. A few years ago I asked my boss Jesse Griffiths, the chef/owner of Dai Due supper club, what he was cooking for Thanksgiving. He said he was brining [...] Read more »