Braising is my favorite preparation for parsnips, because it really brings out all the flavors this oft-forgotten root has to offer: delicate sweetness, earthiness and just a hint of minerality. Cara caras, one of the many types of heirloom citrus that become blessedly available in the winter months, are a perfect partner to parsnips. But if you can’t find them, regular navel oranges will work just as well. Read More
Here’s another classic French dish reinterpreted for the wood oven. This is a great one for dining al fresco on the beautiful spring nights that are now upon us (at least in Chicago – go figure). Read More
The capon is the bird of choice for Christmas in Italy (it’s a male castrated chicken, ouch). The capon is a little fattier than chicken, and has a great flavor. A 6-7lb bird is large enough for a small dinner party. I boiled the head, feet and insides to make stock for risotto. There are a couple of nice aspects to the recipe. First, it uses the heat of the... Read More
