For maximum heat, leave the seeds and membranes in the pepper; habanero will be much hotter than serrano. Ever touched your lips or eyes after chopping hot peppers? Avoid those burns by wearing gloves to prevent the pepper's heat from penetrating your skin.
Currant-Glazed Lamb Chops with Pistachio Couscous is definitely a company-worthy entree, but it's also easy on the cook. The slow-cooked flavor of these lamb chops will have guests thinking you've been in the kitchen all day--not 20 minutes.
Shrimp and Grits, a low-country favorite, makes a hearty, one-dish dinner and is table-ready in 30 minutes. Sustainable Choice: Buy Pacific white shrimp farmed in recirculating systems or inland ponds.
Quinoa works just as well as the traditional bulgur, and it takes less time to cook. We prefer curly parsley here, but flat-leaf parsley or a mix of other herbs would also be delicious.
Yes, you can always use instant. But food editor Margo True swears by steel-cut: "I love it because it has a chewier texture than instant or ordinary rolled oats and a deep, nutty flavor." It also freezes well (add the fruit after defrosting), so make a big batch on the weekend.
Note: I prefer using Carnaroli rice for its slightly longer grains and firmer texture. Feel free to use any risotto-style rice like Arborio or Vailone Nano. About the author: J. Kenji Lopez-Alt is the Chief Creative...
Note: This recipe calls for moderately ripe plantains. Look for ones that have mottled yellow-black skins, avoiding those with green skins (which are unripe) or black skins (which are too ripe). You may have to visit a...
