Soondubu Stew

When a health-conscious girl from Moldova makes Korean food in the States, it looks something like this: A BIG MESS. In other words, a Soondubu Stew. Soondubu, proper pronunciation not required, means “extra soft tofu”. My variation on the stew does not call for any tofu. Sorry. Inspired by both a Russian soup Solyanka and a Korean

Swiss Chard and Potato Stew

After years of resistance, my husband and I have finally booked our next trip oversees. A trip that has been long overdue. A trip, frequently considered but always postponed until the next year. A trip too emotional to imagine or to plan. Vacation request forms have been submitted and approved; we are going back “home”!

Emeril’s Vegetarian Chili

When I am stressed, I find  slicing, dicing, and cutting to be quite therapeutic. A few Sundays ago, after a full weekend of children and adult activities, I was ready for a date with my cutting board, chef knife, and soup pot for some immediate stress relief. I turned on my flat-screened cooking companion and

Uzbek Lamb Plov with Barberries & Raisins

“The wisdom of the ancients teaches us that there are appropriate times for both feasting on rich foods and for fasting on the simplest fare.” Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats by Sally Fallon. I don’t know about you, but I generally crave richer foods on the days

Cucee is Cooking

On the way towards their recipes, these cooking experiments stopped for the photo op. Red Lentil Dahl, Eggplant and Spinach Stack with Raita Sweet Potato Soup

Moroccan Red Lentil-Bean Stew

Last weekend, I took my friends on a culinary journey to Morocco. No suitcase required. Only a plate and a wine glass. Napkins and utensils — optional. My husband and I experienced Moroccan food on our last vacation. The number of exotic delicacies that we came across was a bit shocking (even a little intimidating).

Butternut Squash Tagine with Buttered Chile Couscous

I love snooping around my refrigerator the day after a dinner party. All the delicious leftovers and a break from cooking! Leftover dinner of the day: comforting and satisfying Squash Tagine with Buttered Couscous. Like all stews, this sweet and hearty slow-cooked squash definitely tastes better the second day. Hey, kids, wash your hands, it’s a leftovers