Olla-Podrida: April 2025

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Saffron-Spiced Chicken Makhani with Lemon Yogurt

Few dishes rival the elegance of a slow-simmered meal that envelops your home in fragrant, exotic notes. This Saffron-Spiced Chicken Makhani with Lemon Yogurt reimagines a timeless Indian-inspired classic with a refined twist—tender chicken steeped in garam masala, turmeric, and a whisper of saffron, enriched with creamy yogurt and brightened by a touch of lemon. The slow cooker melds these flavors with Rotel tomatoes and a late addition of peas, creating a dish that’s as effortless as it is opulent. Serve it over fragrant rice with a scattering of cilantro, and you’ve crafted a masterpiece fit for both intimate dinners and grand occasions. This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience.

Saffron-Spiced Chicken Makhani with Lemon Yogurt

2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" cubes

1 t. kosher salt

½ t. freshly ground black pepper

2½ t. garam masala

Pinch of saffron threads (about 10-15 threads), crushed

1-2½" piece of Melissa's organic ginger, minced

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 Melissa’s shallots, diced

2 T. unsalted butter

1 T. tomato paste

1½ t. turmeric

1 14-oz. can Rotel tomatoes

1 10-oz. pkg. frozen peas

1½ c. plain yogurt

1 T. fresh lemon juice

¼ c. chopped Melissa’s organic cilantro

Lightly mist the inside of a 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray (like PAM) for easy cleanup.

In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with kosher salt, black pepper, garam masala, and crushed saffron threads until evenly coated. Transfer to the crockpot.

In a separate bowl, combine the minced ginger, garlic, diced onion, unsalted butter, tomato paste, turmeric, and Rotel tomatoes. Stir until blended, then pour this vibrant mixture over the chicken.

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours, allowing the saffron and spices to infuse the chicken with rich, tender flavor.

After 6 hours, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Turn off the heat, then gently fold in the plain yogurt and fresh lemon juice, lending a creamy texture and a zesty lift.

Serve this luxurious dish over your favorite rice—basmati or jasmine enhances its sophistication—and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a final flourish.

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Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Dashing Hare Tablescape

This design is more intentional than my usual creations, embracing simplicity with a restrained palette of orange and green. Yet, its understated elegance speaks volumes. The foundation features a burlap tablecloth, paired with a sage-green gauzy runner, both carried over from last week’s tablescape.

Initially, I hadn’t planned an Easter table setting, but a charming running hare weather vane caught my eye and sparked inspiration. I decided to make it the centerpiece—an element I often find the most challenging—and build an elegant tablescape around it.

The plate stack is a curated blend of heritage and style: Italian porcelain chargers with deep green rims, a cherished inheritance from my mother, layered with black and white polka-dotted porcelain plates, matching soup bowls (perfect for my avocado cucumber soup), mugs, and vibrant tangerine Fiestaware plates. Each piece harmonizes within the cohesive color scheme.

One of the highlights of this tablescape are the whimsical carrot-shaped salad bowls, which never fail to spark conversation. They’re versatile—ideal for a carrot salad, a warm carrot soup, or even a creamy carrot dip, as I’ve served in the past. Their playful charm elevates the setting.

Bold orange flatware delivers a striking accent, while checked green napkins from Pottery Barn soften the look with subtle sophistication.

The greenery encircling the soup bowls is from a local shop; this is complemented by whimsical faux carrots. The green glassware, sourced from Villeroy and Boch, adds a final touch of refinement.

This tablescape strikes a balance of simplicity and appeal, suitable for all tastes and versatile enough for Easter, spring gatherings, or summer occasions. It’s a testament to how minimal elements can create a memorable dining experience.