Chow-Chow & Soul™

I am excited and up before dawn to watch The Royal Wedding. I typically watch the major American networks, but today I am tuned in to the BBC.  In considering which network would have the best coverage—my bet is on the hometown broadcasting network. The BBC will point out the British traditions, celebrities, and identify […]

I love chili and have stirred more than a few gallons of it. The family recipe was typically ground beef served Cincinnati-style over spaghetti with Delta tamales. Then there was white bean chili with chicken created by my friend at Southern Living magazine. These days the Drapers’ chili of choice starts with a beef chuck roast. It’s […]

I saw a recent post on Facebook from a friend who had received an email invite to buy a personalized cast iron skillet. Now I can’t say that folks need to have a personalized one unless you count as personal the skillet that may have been in your family for years. Everyone needs this kitchen […]

In wrapping up National Soul Food Month, I hope you’ve eaten your fill and enjoyed it all. I kicked off the month with collard greens, and continued to savor an assortment of savory soul items at Sweet Home Café at the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). Of course I had help […]

It is National Apple Pie Day and I’m reposting this  “Mommy & Me” date on Mother’s Day Weekend.   I’ve enjoyed Mommy and Me cooking afternoons to make sure I have all the details on the heritage recipes our family loves.  Apple Pie is one dessert that Daddy loved.   Friends know this deep-dish fruit pie […]

Now I know some of you think I may be immune to kitchen faux pas, but believe me every now and then I experience an oops. I’ve been in a NOLA state of mind from Mardi Gras posts on social media, food photos from chefs and food enthusiasts and chats about culinary doyenne Leah Chase. […]

It’s all about hearts, the symbol of love. I ♥ you, you’re my sweetheart, my heart beats for you, you’re my heartthrob, and without you I’m heartbroken. Celebrate loving and being loved with this mouthwatering heart-healthy dessert. I know it looks indulgent, but it isn’t. Lemon Pound Cake 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking […]

  During this season of noshes, nibbles, buffets, potlucks, tree trims and other festive occasions, I am sure there are a few that you look forward to every year. One of my can’t miss gatherings is the annual holiday brunch that connects friends from the Kraft Kitchens. As you might imagine, a gathering of food […]

If you’re hosting the holiday meal, it‘s time to give serious thought to prep and cooking of the turkey if you’re dishing up a menu of turkey plus the fixins’. One of the biggest snafus that can come with the signature meal is failure to completely thaw the turkey. To avoid facing the icy challenge […]

According to the food calendar, we are in the midst of National Pasta Month. In my book pasta is always good from mac ‘n cheese, to ravioli to spaghetti with meat sauce, you can’t go wrong with pasta. This robust red sauce is one to keep on hand– I usually make a double batch keeping […]