now in season

Food

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Mapping the True Texas Hold’Em

If you want to read a book about Neapolitan pizza, Chinese dumplings or American hamburgers, you have many choices. But where’s the book that maps

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An Heirloom and Heritage Feast

We hear the words “heirloom” and “heritage” in reference to ingredients, but what do they mean? “Heirloom” refers to a variety of edible plants that

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Chiles Secos de México

Botanically speaking, chiles are actually a fruit and belong to the genus Capsicum. Gastronomically, they are utilized as a vegetable and, when dried and ground,

The Big Short Order

For the last decade, the names of Austin restaurants and chefs have peppered the awards lists of national food magazines and organizations. From the headlines,

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Beans

Often, the simplest foods, such as rice and beans, are the ones that daunt us—many people end up buying them either precooked or canned, respectively.

Infusing with Extracts

My garden is producing the most abundant aromas with basil, oregano and mint taking over whole rows. I live alone and don’t cook as often

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Curry

Many don’t realize that curry is neither a specific spice blend nor a dish in its own right. In the 17th century, when the British

What We’re Drinking With Eggs

When it comes to pairing beverages with egg dishes, many find the task a bit daunting. Eggs wear many culinary hats—from bright and brunchy to

Best Laid Plans

In his 1974 book “On Food,” celebrated American chef James Beard wrote, “I have had, in my time, memorable meals of scrambled eggs with fresh

Gazpacho Borracho

Hooray! It’s the season for eating outdoors—starlit suppers, Sunday brunches and fiestas al fresco. On weekends, many Tex-Mex families celebrate tardeadas—leisurely, afternoon backyard gatherings. Revelers

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DIY Tea Blends

There are countless tea blends on grocery store shelves for tea lovers, so why make your own at home? One answer is expense—you can save

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In a Pickle

by Kate Payne • Photography by Jo Ann Santangelo The world of fruit pickles opened up before me during a particularly lush summer of peaches