Apple Honey Challah

So this is my second attempt at making this fantastic challah.  Last year it came out good.  This year it came out exceptional. I used Smitten Kitchen's Apple Honey Challah Recipe but, of course, changed it a bit!

Strawberry Preservation!! Jam, Vinegar, Freezing!

I got my hands on a flat of strawberries and instantly knew that it was time for some preservation projects!!

Freezing Strawberries 

Fava Beans with Bacon and Mushrooms

So I love fava beans.  Cooking with them is a labour of love, but taking the time to hull, blanch, and de-shell this amazing, nutty, spring time treats is well worth the wait!
(Serves 1-2)

Mouthwatering Oven Roasted Chicken

This oven roasted chicken came out mouthwateringly delicious and moist.  So excited about the final product, I didn't even take a picture! It is a lengthy process and requires a lot of love, so beware!!

Potato Bread!

Seafood Risotto

Unfortunately I don't have step-by-step pictures of this recipe!  But use your imagination!

Summer Pizza with Figs, Goat Cheese, and Strawberries

 Because I love the summer!

Chorizo and Kale Stuffed Poblano Peppers

So, I found this recipe and I couldn't resist trying it.  It looked so simple yet delicious and different!

I'll post my pictures but send you to the website it came where you can get detailed instructions. The recipe was perfect-I didn't change a thing!  Feel free to check it out: Chorizo and Kale Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Oven Roasted Chicken

Okay, so this one was a BIG experiment!  I wanted delicious, roasted chicken.  But I was feeling lazy.  But not SO lazy that I had to go buy food.  So here’s what I did.

Oyster Mushroom and Leek Gratin

Potato, Leek, Gruyère and Oyster Mushroom Gratin

(serves 4 as a side dish)

Step 1: Grow your mushrooms! 

 I bought a mushroom starter kit at the Santa Cruz Fungus Fair.  Within two weeks, little mushrooms began to grow.   Once they sprouted, the mushrooms began doubling in size each day.  One week later, I had a handful of beautiful oyster mushrooms, ready to be consumed.

Coconut Chicken Curry (with Kale)

This dish was inspired by a fabulous meal my house mate Lexi made for me the other night! I've never used coconut milk before while cooking...and I'm totally sold. I'm in love. With coconut milk.

Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Hand Pies