Olla-Podrida: recipes

Showing posts with label recipes. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Empanadas by Donna Kelly, Reviewed

As someone who’s always been enchanted by the magic of handheld pies, I was beyond excited to get my hands on Donna Kelly’s latest cookbook, Empanadas. Let me tell you, this book is a game-changer for anyone who loves food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With over 70 recipes packed into its pages, it has quickly become my go-to for creating flavorful, golden turnovers that bring joy to every bite.

What I love most about this cookbook is how approachable it makes empanadas, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out. Kelly offers three distinct dough recipes, each one carefully crafted for either frying or baking to achieve that perfect crispy or flaky texture. And for those days when time isn’t on my side (hello, weeknights!), she includes a genius shortcut using tortillas. It’s like she knew I’d need a quick fix to satisfy my empanada cravings.

The heart of this book, though, is the fillings; over 60 recipes that take you on a global flavor journey. I’ve been having a blast experimenting with savory options like Venezuelan Mojo Chicken, which bursts with zesty citrus and herbs, and Mexican Street Corn, a creamy, spicy nod to one of my favorite street foods. The Louisiana Jambalaya filling brought a taste of New Orleans to my kitchen, while the Asparagus and Goat Cheese empanadas felt like a fancy springtime treat that had me going back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds).

Kelly also sprinkles in holiday-inspired fillings that make every occasion feel special. I’m already planning to whip up the Lucky New Year’s Hoppin’ John empanadas for a festive start to 2026, and the Easter Ham and Scalloped Potatoes filling is calling my name for next spring. But the real showstoppers for me? The sweet empanadas. The Peach Melba filling, with its juicy peaches and tart raspberry drizzle, is pure summer bliss, and the Chocolate Raspberry empanadas? Let’s just say they disappeared from my counter faster than I’d like to admit.

To top it all off, Kelly includes seven bonus recipes for sauces and drizzles that take these pies to a whole new level. I’ve been obsessed with pairing her tangy chimichurri with the savory fillings and her sweet caramel drizzle with the dessert empanadas. It’s these little touches that make every recipe feel like a complete experience.

Donna Kelly has truly outdone herself, and I can’t wait to keep exploring this cookbook. If you’re ready to dive into the world of empanadas, grab a copy of and let the folding, filling, and feasting begin!

You can order your copy here.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from Gibbs Smith in exchange for my honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Rediscovering Virginia Rich, the Heart and Soul of Culinary Mysteries

Culinary mysteries are the ultimate comfort read for me—cozy settings, amateur sleuths, no gore, and food stealing the spotlight. Many fans, like me, adore this delicious subgenre of cozy mysteries, but have you ever wondered where it all began? We owe it all to the late Virginia Rich, the brilliant mind who pioneered this delightful blend of mystery and cuisine. Her novels, starring charming widow and chef Genia Potter, weave recipes—like blueberry buckle and lobster pie—right into the story, inviting readers into her kitchen. For me, opening one of Rich’s books feels like coming home, especially when I need a cozy escape. Adding to the charm, her novels feature recipes for every dish mentioned on the interior covers, making each read a culinary adventure.

Before Rich, mysteries like Agatha Christie’s A Pocket Full of Rye used food as a plot point (hello, poison), and Rex Stout’s Nero Wolfe loved his gourmet meals, but Rich made food the heart of the story. It’s like she’s inviting you into her kitchen, and for me, that’s pure magic. As a fan, cracking open her books feels like coming home, especially when I’m craving a cozy escape.

When I started reading Virginia Rich, I was expecting my first son. Now, alas, I find that I can more easily relate to her widowed main character, Genia Potter. Rich’s three novels, all starring Genia, are like a three-course meal of mystery and flavor.

Those three wonderful, groundbreaking mysteries are as follows:

The Cooking School Murders (1982)

Genia joins an Iowa cooking class led by a celebrity chef, but when students start dying, she stirs up clues alongside casseroles. The Midwestern recipes, like hearty hot dishes, ground this cozy mystery in small-town warmth.

Flipping through my first edition, I can almost smell the casseroles baking. The cooking class setting makes every dish a clue, and I’m itching to try those recipes myself.

The Baked Bean Supper Murders (1983)

In a Maine coastal village, Genia attends a baked bean supper that turns deadly. She digs into town rivalries while serving up blueberry buckle and lobster pie, with recipes included. It’s pure New England charm.

This one’s my favorite—maybe because I dream of Maine summers. The communal supper feels like a hug, and I’ve bookmarked that blueberry buckle recipe for my next read.

The Nantucket Diet Murders (1985)

Genia visits Nantucket, where her friends’ obsession with dieting takes a deadly turn. She uncovers the killer while cooking light dishes like seafood chowder, with recipes that scream coastal vibes.

Holding this book, I’m transported to Nantucket’s beaches. The “diet” angle is hilarious, and those recipes make me want to cook and sleuth at the same time.

Rich, born around 1914, was a food columnist for the Chicago Tribune (as Mary Meade) and Sunset magazine’s food editor before she turned to fiction. Her love for regional dishes and home cooking spilled into her mysteries, starring Eugenia “Genia” Potter, a widowed gourmet cook who solves crimes with a spatula in one hand and a clue in the other. Rich’s three novels, published from 1982 to 1985, changed the game for cozy mysteries, and holding those books now feels like holding a piece of history.

Rich’s books aren’t just stories—they’re experiences. Her recipes, from Iowa casseroles to Maine lobster pie, tie the mysteries to their settings and make Genia feel like a real friend. Her death in 1985, just after The Nantucket Diet Murders, broke my heart—three books weren’t enough! Nancy Pickard picked up the series with books like The 27-Ingredient Chili Con Carne Murders, but Rich’s originals are the gold standard. She started a genre that lives on through authors like Diane Mott Davidson and Joanne Fluke, and I’m grateful every time I crack open her pages.

These books are my go-to when I need a cozy night in. They’re perfect for curling up with a cup of tea, and the recipes make them even better—imagine baking blueberry buckle while solving a murder. For collectors like me, first editions are out there on AbeBooks or ThriftBooks, and trust me, they’re worth the hunt. Whether you’re a mystery buff, a foodie, or just love a good story, Rich’s novels are a treat you’ll savor.

Virginia Rich didn’t just write mysteries; she cooked up a genre that’s still feeding my soul. Her Eugenia Potter books are like comfort food—warm, familiar, and full of love. So, grab The Cooking School Murders, whip up a casserole, and join me in celebrating the woman who made food and mystery a perfect pair. Here’s to Virginia Rich, the founding mother of culinary mysteries, and to the joy of rediscovering her books.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking, a Review

Jodi Moreno’s Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking is a refreshing departure from the often lackluster cookbooks flooding today’s market. As a James Beard–nominated chef, Moreno brings a vibrant, indulgent, yet approachable energy to her collection of comfort recipes that celebrate life’s simple pleasures. From the moment you open the book, its beautifully designed pages and comprehensive index—a rarity in modern cookbooks—draw you in. Every recipe is accompanied by a stunning photograph, making it as much a visual feast as a culinary one.

What sets this book apart is Moreno’s knack for reinventing familiar dishes with unexpected twists. The pickle-brine sheet pan chicken with capers, red onion, and dill is a standout, its bold flavor combination will no doubt provide a “toothsome” experience that lives up to its intriguing title. Similarly, the broccoli with feta, almonds, and lemon, inspired by her boss’s obsession, is a simple yet sophisticated dish that delivers on both taste and ease. As a broccoli enthusiast, I found this recipe to be a delightful addition to my repertoire.

The shrimp scampi with tomato rice is another gem—elegant enough for company, yet straightforward for novice cooks. Moreno’s Golden Salmorejo, a yellow tomato gazpacho, is a must-try for summer, especially for those growing their own yellow tomatoes, like me. Her take on potato leek soup, enhanced with crispy potatoes and leeks, challenges even the most confident home cooks to rethink a classic. The book’s variety ensures there’s something for every taste, budget, and skill level, from indulgent butter-laden dishes to lighter, feel-good options.

Moreno’s playful organization, with sections like “Pasta Parties” and “Long Leisurely Gatherings,” invites readers to embrace cooking as a joyful, communal experience. Her love for bold ingredients—crème fraîche, juicy tomatoes, mounds of parmesan—shines through, creating recipes that balance decadence and nourishment. Simple Pleasures is a cookbook that feels personal, thoughtful, and inspiring, making it a must-have for anyone who cherishes quality, creativity, and the art of cooking.

Get your copy here.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Cupcakes for Any Occasion, Reviewed

Cupcakes for Any Occasion by Rachel Lindsay, a.k.a. “Caked by Rach” to her over three million social media followers, is a delightful and inspiring guide that transforms cupcake baking and decorating into an accessible, joyful experience, and this is something I do not say lightly. As someone who typically dreads baking — I do it, but I don’t like it — I found myself genuinely excited to try the recipes and designs in this book. Without hesitation, I can say this is the best cupcake book I’ve encountered, perfect for novices and seasoned bakers alike.

The book features 20 delectable cupcake and frosting recipes, paired with over 50 creative decorating projects tailored for holidays, birthdays, weddings, baby showers, and more. From whimsical Halloween ghosts and festive Christmas trees to charming butterflies and even playful spaghetti and meatballs designs, Lindsay’s creations are as imaginative as they are approachable. (Her skull cupcakes really spoke to me.)

Each project is accompanied by detailed, step-by-step photography and straightforward instructions, making complex-looking designs achievable for bakers of all skill levels. If you’ve ever wondered how to properly use a pastry bag, your questions are answered here — that alone, in my opinion, is worth the price of the book.What sets this book apart is its focus on simplicity and affordability. Lindsay uses basic tools and techniques that anyone can master. The recipes for cupcake bases and buttercream frostings are versatile, allowing endless mix-and-match possibilities to suit any occasion. Her clear guidance on essential baking and decorating methods ensures that even those with no prior experience—like myself—can produce stunning, professional-looking results.

For added value, pairing the book with Lindsay’s online videos (Instagram and YouTube) enhances the learning experience, offering visual demonstrations that complement the written instructions.

Cupcakes for Any Occasion is a foolproof guide that delivers. Whether you’re a reluctant baker or a cupcake enthusiast, this book will leave you eager to whip up your next batch of show-stopping cupcakes.

Highly recommended for bakers of all ages and skill levels!

You can order your copy here.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher who provided me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sunday, June 1, 2025

The Art of Jacques Pépin: A Life in Recipes and Paintings, Reviewed

The Art of Jacques Pépin: A Life in Recipes and Paintings is a charming tribute to the legendary chef’s 90th birthday, blending his culinary brilliance with his lifelong passion for painting. This gorgeous cookbook features 99 of Pépin’s favorite recipes, thoughtfully paired with his vibrant artworks from six decades. From cozy Bread and Onion Soup to indulgent Chocolate Soufflé, each dish captures Pépin’s signature style—classic, flavorful, and totally doable for home cooks. Recipes like Baked Salmon with Pesto Butter and Pork Roast with Ratatouille nod to his French roots while fitting perfectly in modern kitchens.

From cozy Bread and Onion Soup to indulgent Chocolate Soufflé, each dish captures Pépin’s signature style—classic, flavorful, and totally doable for home cooks. Recipes like Baked Salmon with Pesto Butter and Pork Roast with Ratatouille nod to his French roots while fitting perfectly in modern kitchens.

The book’s layout is super user-friendly, with chapters covering every course, including desserts, so you can easily plan a full meal. The real star, though, is Pépin’s art. His bright, lively paintings, carefully chosen to complement the recipes, add a personal, joyful touch that shows off his creative side beyond the kitchen.

The visuals are stunning, but here’s a heads-up: there are no food photos. If you love seeing the finished dish, you might be a bit let down. This is more of an art book with recipes than a traditional cookbook, which I personally loved, but it might not click for everyone.

As a lifelong Pépin fan who’s cooked every recipe from his pandemic-era videos and owns all his cookbooks, I think this collection is a gem. The recipes are pure Pépin—simple, elegant, and paired with clear instructions that make you feel like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this book pulls you into Pépin’s world, inspiring you to create with the same passion he radiates. As he loves to say, “Happy cooking!”—and this book makes that vibe come alive.

You can preorder a copy here.

I received a digital copy for review from which these pictures were taken.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Harvest Publishers, and Jacques Pépin for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Notes to My Mother-in-Law and How Many Camels Are There in Holland? Reviewed

On a whim (and because this Kindle pair is SO economical), I recently bought this book bundle by Phyllida Law. For those unfamiliar with Phyllida Law, she is a remarkable Scottish actress whose talent has graced both stage and screen, and she’s also the mother of two equally accomplished actresses, Emma Thompson and Sophie Thompson. Her two-book memoir bundle, Notes to My Mother-in-Law and How Many Camels Are There in Holland? — also published together in paperback as Three Mothers (and a Camel) — is a delightful showcase of the charm that defines her acting work. This collection is a heartwarming, funny, and utterly lovely exploration of family life, motherhood, and the quirks that make it all unforgettable.

In Notes to My Mother-in-Law, Phyllida captures the tender absurdity of writing daily gossip notes for her deaf mother-in-law, Annie, the family’s lynchpin, whose hearing aid malfunctions add a layer of comedic charm. Then, in How Many Camels Are There in Holland?, she turns her affectionate gaze to her “deliciously dotty” mother, Mego, whose dementia requires Phyllida’s devoted care—complete with cottage-tidying and medicinal G&Ts. All this unfolds while she juggles her busy acting career and raises Emma and Sophie, who contribute wonderful new material to this edition.

What makes these memoirs shine is Phyllida’s ability to blend humor with poignancy. Her stories are peppered with eccentric details—like a peculiar question about camels—whimsical illustrations, and even a couple of recipes that I’m eager to try someday. It’s a charming, uplifting read that celebrates the resilience of mothers and daughters. If you’re looking for a book that’s both a warm hug and a good laugh, this bundle is a treasure; you can get this duo for the low price of $.99 (!!) here.

Highly recommended.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Friday, February 14, 2025

Murder on the Menu, Recipes from Sleuthing Stars

I have news! My mystery cookbook, Murder on the Menu, Recipes from Sleuthing Stars, 30 years in the making, is finally available on Kindle. For those of you with Kindle Unlimited, it’s free, for those of you without, it is a mere $4.99. It is a labor of love, I can tell you. Here’s the backstory:

In 1991, I had the incredible privilege of experiencing one of the most unforgettable weekends of my life. Jeremy Brett, the legendary British actor celebrated for his masterful portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on Masterpiece Theatre, was touring the United States to promote the series. When my local PBS station discovered my passion for all things Sherlock Holmes, they reached out and hired me—over the phone. What followed was a magical weekend spent in the company of this remarkable actor—an experience I can only describe as pure heaven.

Impressed by my enthusiasm and knowledge, the PBS team approached me with an extraordinary idea: to compile a mystery-themed cookbook. The concept was ambitious, calling for recipes and personal stories from PBS actors, mystery writers, bookstore owners, and mystery fans alike. In those pre-Internet days, gathering these contributions was no small task, but I threw myself into the project with enthusiasm, collecting not only recipes but also heartfelt anecdotes that added depth and charm to the collection.

As the cookbook neared completion, however, everything came to an abrupt halt. A change in station management caused the project to be shelved, and life swept me in new directions. There was a divorce, two moves, and three battles with cancer. The manuscript was tucked away, buried in the chaos of life, and all but forgotten.

Years later, while cleaning out my files, I rediscovered the manuscript. As I turned its pages, I realized what a treasure it was—a vibrant mosaic of recipes, memories, and personalities. Each contribution reflected the passion and creativity of its author. Tragically, many of the remarkable individuals who shared their talents for this project are no longer with us, but their legacy endures in these pages. Their voices, their stories, and their love for both mysteries and the culinary arts live on, making this collection not just a cookbook but a celebration of their lives and work.

It became clear that this book was meant to be shared—not just to honor its contributors, but to celebrate the timeless bond between storytelling and the art of cooking.

A portion of the proceeds from this cookbook will go to support my local PBS station, a small way of giving back to the organization that inspired this incredible journey.

This book is more than a collection of recipes; it is a labor of love, a tribute to the mystery genre, and a testament to the resilience of rediscovered dreams. I hope you savor these recipes and stories as much as I have enjoyed bringing them to life.

For those who prefer paperbacks to digital versions, the paperback will be released in the spring.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.