Cooking

essamy’s Nanaimo Bars are plated with mint and strawberries on the side.

essamy’s Nanaimo Bars are plated with mint and strawberries on the side.

Cook's Corner: No-bake, easy treats for the last weeks of summer

This week I have some new recipes for no-bake desserts that are easy and so good, without turning on the oven. I have two new recipes using cherry tomatoes and three easy desserts that are all-time favorites of friends that I think you’ll want to try either now or later.

Cook's Corner: Make the Most of Peach Season With These Family Recipes

Last week, I received half a case of fresh peaches that were at peak ripeness and flavor. They were "freestone" peaches, meaning they come right off the pit instead of clinging to it, as “cling” peaches do. These were from Georgia, but of course our Fredericksburg peaches are fabulous too.

Cook’s Corner: A taste of Germany, years in the making

A "few" years ago when I was at Austin College, the A Cappella Choir went on a concert tour in Europe, and while we were in Germany, it had been arranged for us to split up into small groups and go to homes in Berlin for a family dinner with a host family.
Sourdough focaccia bread made during a Extension Office class seen before and after being baked.

Sourdough focaccia bread made during a Extension Office class seen before and after being baked.

Wilco AgriLife Extension Office offers resources for bakers, gardeners

While some residents were in line to vote or attend court hearings at the Williamson County Annex last Thursday, others enjoyed the Williamson County AgriLife Extension Office’s Lunch and Learn sourdough breadmaking class.

Birthday burgers and cookie balls

Last week, I was happy to receive three new recipes from friends that I’ll share today. This first recipe comes from interior designer and friend, Dawn Hearn (a great cook!) who made it for her brother’s birthday. Instead of beef, these burgers use ground chicken and are delicious!

Wake up to a great breakfast

Last week and weekend, I got to spend in Austin with my grandsons Jack and Cole while Cate and Bill were traveling. Then I went to Dallas for a close friend’s daughter’s wedding. While there, I stayed with college roomie Rebecca and husband Ronny.

Cook's Corner: Baking cookies for Santa, or yourself

Christmas is about many things, but in the holiday food world, cookies play a major role. Today, I have some new and delicious new recipes for cookies and bar cookies that can be baked now and frozen for easy entertaining in the next two weeks.

Cook's Corner: Planning ahead for Thanksgiving

It may sound early to some of you, but for those of you who love to plan ahead, I thought I’d share some recipes for freezable dishes that will be wonderful on your Thanksgiving table (or any time, for that matter).
Milana Shydler speaks while she demonstrates how to cook fried rice.

Milana Shydler speaks while she demonstrates how to cook fried rice.

Tastes of the Town: How to cook up authentic fried rice

I recently attended a demonstration given by Milana Shydler on the secrets to making authentic fried rice.“I’m from a Chinese family. My parents immigrated from rural China in the 1950s after the Communist takeover” she said.Her parents set new roots while keeping certain food traditions alive.