Changing temperatures are reminders that time is passing and with those subtle differences, come shifts in our menu planning. Gone are the times when I embrace only cold foods to stave off the sweltering heat. Now I want something that matches my surroundings. And it’s not just food. We are creatures of habit even when…
Pork and Bean Soup
I am a dedicated food preserver and have the full freezers and canned goods in my pantry to prove it. I am also good about using “older” food items that I have stored. What is the purpose of going to all that trouble, only for it to sit in the freezer forever? On a routine…
Tennessee Whiskey Trail – Part 4
Our journey along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail took us south on a recent Saturday. On this outing, we were joined by some friends from church, as well as our trail mates John and Donna. All together, eleven of us made our way to Shelbyville for a visit to Nearest Green Distillery and then over to…
Tomato Pie
The first time I had a bite of tomato pie was after I finished college. I was home for the weekend and stayed with my Grandmother. She had one sitting on the countertop and when she told me about it, I wasn’t quite sure. But what had my Grandmother ever made that I didn’t like?!…
Basil Hayden
One morning after church, we were discussing bourbon with some of our friends while having coffee and donuts. As we found out, some of our church friends like bourbon and whiskey as much as we do. One couple was was also making their way through the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, just as we are. Well, one…
Freezing Tomatoes
August is the time when fresh tomatoes are at their peak. My garden plants are yielding an armload every few days. As much as I love munching them, the excess has to be dealt with. I love homemade canned salsa, but I also make sure I have plenty of stewed tomatoes in my freezer for…
French Martini
I love martini glasses. They are elegant and beautiful, especially when filled with a fun summer cocktail. At a recent gathering, I decided it was a good time to start the evening off with French Martinis. Supposedly this recipe was created especially for Chambord Raspberry Liqueur and it is fabulous. Give it a try for…
Orchard Fresh Peach Cake
Fresh peaches are such a delight! I have been using them in cobblers, fried pies and ice cream, but now it’s time for cake. I love this recipe from Farm Fresh Southern Cooking (page 192) and used it with strawberries in the spring. It has little bits of chopped fruit in every bite and makes…
Croutons
Croutons I hate for any food to go to waste. I am constantly checking the pantry, freezer and refrigerator to see if anything is in immediate need of use. With loads of vegetables coming in from the garden, we’ve been eating lots of salads, so a half loaf of sliced bread caught my attention. I…
Tartar Sauce
Tartar Sauce I realize that most people purchase commercially prepared tartar sauce … I certainly have. But last night for an impromptu fish fry, I didn’t have any so I made my own. I don’t think I will ever purchase it in a bottle again! What a difference and I wasn’t the only one who…
Haute Flavor 