Now that we live in the Pacific Northwest, we are quickly becoming addicted to what is referred to here as ‘salmon candy.’ It is often an alder-smoked version I buy at the farmer’s market. And I now know the difference a belly cut makes – chewier, but much higher energy content. But the salmon I…
Turkey Kotlet (Persian Meat and Potato Patties)
I have mainly avoided making kotlets, Persian meat and potato patties, for two reasons: 1 – they are typically make with ground beef; and 2 – they are usually fried. But here is a recipe for kotlet make with ground turkey and baked in the oven. And guess what? They were great! I shouldn’t admit…
Eggplant and Zucchini Antipasti
Our condo association held a social last week. Since it was going to be right outside our patio, of course we would attend, but what would we bring? I decided to reach into the techniques I use to prep eggplant and zucchini for my Persian cooking and make some antipasti. To add some color I…
Rice and Broccoli Frittata
This frittata was great! It was a hit with each of us, even my now-picky 10 year old. And, it could have been even better. Putting rice in the frittata leads to the possibility of combining Persian tahdig (crispy rice layer) with an Italian omelet – how good would that be?! I am still adjusting…
Zucchini Quesadillas
Last week, my husband called me to say he was at the Lloyd Farmers Market and did I need anything? I needed a zucchini, so I asked him to buy 1 medium-sized zucchini. I wish I had taken a picture, because he came home with 3 large zucchini. They weren’t as big as the huge zucchini,…
Blackberry Jam
I have been told that all you need to grow blackberries in Oregon is to disturb the soil and wait. That seems to be true along the riverfront near our condo. Luckily, there is a walking path within arms reach of the plants. So, on a recent morning walk with my dog, I brought my…
My First Rainbow Trout
My son’s love of rainbow trout goes back many years. Seven years ago, when Cam was 3, we joined my husband on a business trip to the Portland area. During our wanderings, Cam and I found the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, where they raise…rainbow trout. He was captivated by the fish and made me buy him…
Smoked Salmon Creamy Pasta with a Kick
When we came to visit Portland last year, we discovered The Smokery at the Portland Farmers Market. Last weekend, we tasted their Old Irish smoked salmon…all it took was one bite, this was the perfect mix of smoke with a touch of sweet. In addition to eating it ‘straight,’ I decided to make it as…
Cooking from the Portland Farmers Market
Now that we have arrived in Portland, I no longer have access to my own garden, but I do have a number of wonderful farmers markets in easy reach. The biggest is the Saturday market at Portland State University. It is an easy 1.3 mile walk before we shop, and a very easy ride on…
Wineries on the Way – Washington & Oregon
After a long 7 hour driving day, we finally reached Richland, WA and Fiction at the J. Bookwalter Winery. It was so nice to sit out on the patio relaxing in the 95F heat with a glass of chenin blanc. Dinner featured the happy hour menu and a flavorful flatbread for me with a…
