Each autumn, Mexico awakens with a celebration unlike any other: Día de Muertos, or “Day of the Dead.” One essential part of Día de Muertos is pan de muerto or “bread of the dead.” Joyful Reunions Día de Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” is a multifaceted cultural celebration observed in Mexico and by Latinx […]
In Spanish, the word “espuma” simply means foam. Culinarily, it signifies a light and airy technique that revolutionized the gastronomic landscape in the 1990s when world-renowned Chef Ferran Adrià introduced it at his restaurant El Bulli on the Catalan Costa Brava. Espuma as a culinary technique is universally credited to Chef Adrià after he refused […]
Put away your forks and spoons because this bread does it all. In this article, we demystify injera and shed light on what makes this cornerstone of Ethiopian cuisine so special. Appearance, Texture, & Flavor Injera is a slightly sour, spongy flatbread that’s a staple food in Ethiopia and Eritrea. Despite its delicate appearance, injera […]
“The bouquet garni, that little bunch of herbs tied together with string, is one of the great secrets of French cooking.” – Julia Child Mastering the art of bouquet garni means developing a deep understanding of flavor, balance, and adaptability. In this article, we’ll provide you with key steps to guide you on your flavor journey. What […]
The terms “yam” and “sweet potato” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about their origins and culinary applications. While they share some similarities in appearance and usage, these two root vegetables are botanically distinct and exhibit unique characteristics that set them apart. A Case of Mistaken Identity In the United States, the terms “yam” […]
Saffron has long been prized for its vibrant color, unique flavor, and captivating aroma. In this article, we explore the essence of saffron, including its distinctive characteristics, why it is one of the most expensive spices in the world, the various types available, best practices for procurement and commercial storage, and how to incorporate it […]
Looking for a new ingredient to whet the appetite of your customers? Consider adding the exotic crystalline iceplant to your menu. What Are Crystalline Iceplants? The crystalline iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) also known as common iceplant and salty iceplant, is a visually enchanting addition to any dish. Native to South Africa, this little succulent purportedly […]
In the same vein as frog legs and escargot, what was once considered “food for peasants” is now regarded as classic French fare that even meat eaters and vegans can agree on. In the United States, however, it is most closely associated with a Disney Pixar rodent. That’s right, we’re talking about ratatouille today. What […]
Craving a savory wrapped dumpling? Today, we will explore an outstanding comfort food that doubles as the national dish of Poland — pierogi. These boiled, fried, or baked dumplings hail from Eastern Europe, and are now enjoyed throughout the world. What Are Pierogi? Pierogi (singular – pieróg) is a generic Polish term for filled dumplings. […]
Maybe you’ve heard of poutine or even tried it. If you haven’t, you will soon. This tasty snack out of Canada has recently garnered fans all over the world. Whether from a food truck or in a fine dining establishment, poutine has found its place within our culinary landscape. What Is Poutine? Poutine is a […]
When most Americans think of mole, they think of spicy chocolate. However, that is only one piece of a very large puzzle. So, what is mole sauce exactly? Today we will explore mole’s history, varieties, and flavor notes. What Is Mole? Mole (pronounced MOH-lay) is Mexico’s national dish. The word “mole” comes from the Nahuatl […]
Humans have enjoyed and relied on tofu for a very long time. The first record mentioning tofu occurred all the way back in 965 A.D. China where it was widely consumed by both the rich and poor. It was first documented in Japan shortly after, in the diary of a Shinto priest who used it […]
On August 23rd, 2021, California became the first US state to pass a resolution designating that kimchi gets its own special day — November 22, Kimchi Day. This comes a year after China tried to lay claim that kimchi originated within its borders — a statement that greatly shook South Korea. As it has gained […]
People all around the world enjoy eating curry. Yet, the dishes that make up our global appreciation of curry are often disparate in taste, appearance, and ingredients. So, what is curry, really? Curry Is Everywhere and Nowhere Curry is an umbrella term used to describe a spiced sauce or gravy. As a category of food, […]