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# Debbie Koenig, Writer

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Cookshop: Another Birthday, Another So-So Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/26/cookshop-another-birthday-another-so-so-dinner/) - For my birthday, I like to pick a restaurant we wouldn’t normally go to—one that’s gotten good notices and promises a memorable meal. The danger in choosing somewhere new over a reliable favorite, of course, is that you can never be sure of what lies ahead. Last year, we celebrated my birthday at Blue Hill
- [Latkes Worth Stinking Up the House for](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/28/latkes-worth-stinking-up-the-house-for/) - Is there any more wanton, more decadent, more soul-satisfying experience than biting into a potato pancake moments from the pan, still so hot it burns your fingers? The crisp exterior, starchy shards snapping, gives way to a sumptuously soft interior, fragrant with onions and a deep, earthy richness. You devour it greedily, shocked at your
- [Full-Spectrum Rainbow Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/13/full-spectrum-rainbow-cookies/) - A simplified recipe for the traditional tri-colored almond paste cookie, amped up with a gorgeous full rainbow of layers.
- [The Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Meatloaf](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/04/the-barefoot-contessas-turkey-meatloaf/) - This’ll be a short post since for some reason I’m exhausted at 5:30 in the afternoon… It’s also short because this is, bar none, the most flavorful turkey meatloaf I’ve ever had. I could wax poetic about it for paragraphs, but really, you only need the recipe. Trust me. You won’t be sorry. Ina Garten’s
- [The Secret to Perfectly Round Slice-and-Bake Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/02/11/perfectly-round-slice-and-bake-cookies/) - If you've got a recycling bin, you've got the perfect tool for chilling rolls of slice-and-bake cookie dough.
- [Quick Tip Tuesday: Parmesan Rind](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/18/quick-tip-tuesday-parmesan-rind/) - It’s Tuesday, and I’ve got a quick kitchen tip to share with you. Which means I’m hereby christening today Quick Tip Tuesday. Should I happen to have another quick kitchen tip for you, and should it happen to fall on a Monday, well, I guess I’ll have to hold it back for a day. Rules
- [Charred Corn on the Cob](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/08/02/charred-corn-on-the-cob/) - Get the smoky, intense flavor of grilled corn on the cob, without firing up the grill.
- [Not-Too-Cheesy Apricot Noodle Kugel](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/10/not-too-cheesy-apricot-noodle-kugel/) - If you’re Jewish and at all observant, you’re wondering why I’m posting this now. I know, I know, it’s a little late for a perfect-for-break-fast kugel. But I couldn’t get it together to post this in time, and it’s too good to wait for Shavuot, so I’m giving you a bonus post for today… This
- [Couch Potato Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/29/couch-potato-cookies/) - Can't decide if you're in the mood for potato chips, pretzels, or chocolate chip cookies? Have all three in one outrageous package!
- [Jim Lahey’s Mushroom Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/09/jim-laheys-mushroom-pizza/) - I seem to be on a pizza kick. What can I say? Maybe it’s because, now that I got a taste of how ridiculously easy it is to make dough from scratch, a whole new world has opened up. Or maybe it’s because my adorable, almost-a-preschool-graduate* son spent the weekend asking for two things: Hot
- [One-Bowl Cranberry Snack Cake, To Lift My Spirits](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/10/29/one-bowl-cranberry-snack-cake-to-lift-my-spirits/) - All you need is a bowl, a whisk, and a spatula to turn fresh cranberries into a day-brightening treat.
- [Super-Simple Seder Meal: Slow Cooker Chicken with Fennel & Lemon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/04/slow-cooker-chicken-with-fennel-lemon/) - Perfect for a weeknight during Passover or any time, this recipe combines bone-in chicken breasts, mellow fennel, and tart lemons in the slow cooker with luscious results.
- [Chicken a la Cono, Debbie Style (Chicken with Potatoes, Mushrooms, & Vinegar Peppers)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/18/chicken-a-la-cono-debbie-style-chicken-with-potatoes-mushrooms-vinegar-peppers/) - You may recall my rave about Cono & Sons O’Pescatore, our favorite old-school Italian joint. Well, my Weight Watchers meeting is around the corner from the restaurant, so after losing another 2.2 pounds tonight (yippeeee) I was inspired to recreate my favorite dish, Chicken a la Cono. I’m shocked, absolutely shocked, but it came out
- [Roasted Pineapple](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/24/roasted-pineapple/) - It happened again. At the supermarket the other day, there were lovely, aromatic pineapples on display. Good price, too. I selected carefully, sniffing the bottoms as I’d been instructed by somebody or other (why do I trust these people?) until I found one that smelled distinctly pineappley. Sugary. Delighted, I brought it home and refrigerated
- [Easy, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooker Pot Roast](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/11/18/easy-melt-in-your-mouth-slow-cooker-pot-roast/) - The effort-to-payoff ratio is off the charts: Ten minutes of work gets you melt-in-your-mouth beef and lusciously soft vegetables, plus an umami-rich sauce.
- [Braised Escarole and White Beans, from My New Favorite Cookbook](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/15/braised-escarole-and-white-beans-from-my-new-favorite-cookbook/) - I’ve been unfaithful. Three times, just in the last two weeks. And I don't feel a bit guilty. For years, my list of favorite cookbooks has remained unchanged: The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook by Ina Garten, How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman, and The New Doubleday Cookbook by Jean Anderson. When I needed information, instruction,
- [Passover Birthdays Don’t Have to Suck (Not When There's Chocolate Souffle Cake)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/23/passover-birthdays-dont-have-to-suck-not-when-theres-chocolate-souffle-cake/) - Today is my sister-in-law K’s birthday. It’s also the beginning of Passover—starting at sundown tonight, for eight days observant Jews will forego all kinds of forbidden foods, known as chametz: bread, pasta, corn, legumes, rice, flour, yeast, baking powder & soda, and even mustard.* This includes any and all prepared foods made with even the
- [Fresh Strawberry Jello Tastes As Good As It Looks](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/06/17/fresh-strawberry-jello/) - Next time you bring home underwhelming fresh berries, transform them into refreshing, bright, homemade jello. Turn dull into extraordinary in minutes.
- [Roast Your Chicken Bones for Richer Stock](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/17/roast-your-chicken-bones-for-richer-stock/) - Look how deliciously, deeply brown it is! Chilling your stock makes it easy to remove the excess fat, which congeals on top. Sometimes I make mistakes. And sometimes that turns out to be a good thing. The other day, I pulled some chicken parts out of my overstuffed freezer and set them in the fridge
- [American Chop Suey](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/28/american-chop-suey/) - Iron-willed does not even begin to describe my mom. When I was six, she gave birth to my youngest brother, G, and fell into a post-partum depression from which it took nearly a decade to emerge. For the first few years, most days she was still in bed when we came home from school. But
- [OhMyGod Slow Cooker Short Ribs of Beef](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/01/ohmygod-slow-cooker-short-ribs-of-beef/) - Did you hear us moaning the other night? Like, moaning-moaning, the sound your body makes involuntarily when experiencing something so good it shakes you to your core? No, not sex—get your mind out of the gutter! Food. In this case, these incredible short ribs, braised in a sauce of red wine, soy sauce, and ketchup.
- [Better Than Sex? (Frozen Grapes)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/27/better-than-sex-frozen-grapes/) - Mention frozen grapes in any Weight Watchers meeting and listen to the sighs of remembered pleasure. In my meeting a few weeks ago, one member claimed she found them as satisfying—and addictive—as ice cream. Now, I’ve been hearing about the wonders of the frozen grape for close to a decade. They’re no secret. But the
- [How to Use Fondant, for Absolute Beginners](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/28/how-to-use-fondant-for-absolute-beginners/) - Before you start asking if I’m qualified to write a guide to fondant, considering that I only used it for the first time last week, let me ask you: Who’s better qualified to write a beginner’s guide than a beginner? I make no promises that if you follow my advice you’ll produce professional-quality pieces; I’m
- [The Tingly Fruit: Pomelo](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/24/the-tingly-fruit-pomelo/) - Yesterday S and I got a little stir-crazy, what with the blizzard and all. We piled on our snow gear and trekked over to Bedford Avenue, the heart of hipster Williamsburg. First we ate a leisurely late lunch/early dinner at Fornino (pesto pizza with caciotta piccante—a spicy, nutty cheese—and roast cherry tomatoes), and then made
- [My Contribution to Superbowl Mania: Philadelphia German Butter Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/06/my-contribution-to-superbowl-mania-philadelphia-german-butter-cake/) - There are a few things I don’t like to eat (well, more than a few), and most of them center around dairy products: Yogurt. Most cheeses. Sour cream. Plain milk. You get the picture. If it’s too creamy, too tangy, too unctuous, I’ll put my hand over my plate and say No, thanks. S, on
- [The Best Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies in the Entire World, Updated (Just a Bit)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/14/the-best-homemade-chocolate-chip-cookies-in-the-entire-world/) - Seven years ago this month, in my early blogging days, I went on a mission. My goal: to create the best chocolate chip cookie recipe ever. Seriously, EVER. Not only did it have to be chewy in the center and crisp around the edges, it also had to have the addictively toffee-like quality that only
- [One Simple Trick for Packing School Lunch](https://debbiekoenig.com/2015/01/18/one-simple-trick-for-packing-school-lunch/) - One simple trick can take all the stress out of packing your kid's lunchbox. Complete with printable, downloadable chart!
- [Super Bowl Treat: Cookie Dough Truffle Footballs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2015/01/14/super-bowl-treat-cookie-dough-truffle-footballs/) - Egg-free chocolate chip cookie dough, shaped into footballs and dunked in chocolate. Add a bit of white chocolate decoration, and your pigskin's perfect!
- [Your New Favorite Broccoli Recipe](https://debbiekoenig.com/2015/01/12/your-new-favorite-broccoli-recipe/) - Two simple tweaks take roasted broccoli from ho-hum to OH YUM. Elegant enough for dinner parties, simple enough for every night.
- [Kid-Friendly New Year's Eve: Homemade Pigs in Blankets & Mini-Knishes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/12/30/kid-friendly-new-years-eve-homemade-pigs-in-blankets-mini-knishes/) - One package of puff pastry, two irresistible, kid-friendly nibbles. Perfect for New Year's Eve or your next party.
- [Oh, Christmas Tree?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/12/23/oh-christmas-tree/) - I'm Jewish. My husband's Catholic. And the tree is...
- [The Ultimate Picky Eater (and Mini-Foodie) Gift Guide](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/12/10/the-ultimate-picky-eater-and-mini-foodie-gift-guide/) - Got a picky eater? Go sneaky for the holidays and give 'em one of these food-themed--but still awesome--gifts. They'll delight food-lovers too!
- [Quick Weeknight Dinners for Every Night of 2014](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/12/04/quick-weeknight-dinners-for-every-night-of-2014/) - It's 8:27 PM here in New York. My family's dinner is done, but maybe in your time zone you're in the grips of what-should-I-cook panic. Not to worry, I've got you covered! Twenty easy, irresistible, kid-pleasing recipes, all in one place. Choices include Lemon-Roasted Chicken & Vegetables, Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders, Polynesian Flank Steak, Honey-Soy Roasted
- [Cranberry-Apple Crumb Pie: Not Just for Thanksgiving](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/12/02/cranberry-apple-crumb-pie-thanksgiving/) - A pie festive enough for Thanksgiving, irresistible any time: Lightly spiced and sweetened apples, tart cranberries, and a nut-free oat crumble on top.
- [The Most Kid-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipe Ever: Pumpkin-Shaped Pumpkin Rolls](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/11/22/the-most-kid-friendly-thanksgiving-recipe-ever-pumpkin-shaped-pumpkin-rolls/) - Adorable doesn't even begin to describe them. Add in lightly sweet, super-tender & naturally colored by pumpkin puree. Oh, and irresistible to picky eaters.
- [How to Survive Thanksgiving with a Picky Eater](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/11/20/how-to-survive-thanksgiving-with-a-picky-eater/) - Food-centric holidays with a picky eater can be stressful enough to ruin the day. Learn tips to keep you calm & happy--and well-fed!
- [Secretly Healthy, Picky Eater-Pleasing: Cookies for Breakfast](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/11/14/secretly-healthy-picky-eater-pleasing-cookies-for-breakfast/) - What kid wouldn't love cookies for breakfast? You will, too, once you see the wholesome ingredients in this easy, irresistible recipe.
- [Scarier Than Ebola](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/11/03/scarier-than-ebola/) - Only one thing scares this food blogger more than ebola.
- [The Imperfect Family Kitchen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/10/09/the-imperfect-family-kitchen/) - Family-oriented cookbooks and food blogs make people feel bad. I don't want to do that any more.
- [How to Make Quesadillas: Picky Eater Special](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/08/12/how-to-make-quesadillas-picky-eater-special/) - To satisfy a crowd--picky eaters included--set out the fixings for quesadillas and let everyone assemble their own. Fun for parties and weeknights alike!
- [Connecting the Fat Dots](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/05/30/connecting-the-fat-dots/) - Therapy helped me lose 100 pounds. Fifteen years later, I hope it'll help me keep from gaining it back--or messing up my son's eating any further.
- [Visiting England with the World's Pickiest Eater](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/05/06/visiting-england-with-the-worlds-pickiest-eater/) - Traveling abroad with a picky eater ain't easy. But at least we found the "platonic ideal of grilled cheese" at London's Borough Market.
- [Baked Chicken Milanese](https://debbiekoenig.com/2014/01/14/baked-chicken-milanese/) - Thin chicken cutlets are coated in Parmesan & breadcrumbs, then baked until golden brown. Topped with arugula & tomato salad, it's a diet-friendly Chicken Parm.
- [Latkes & Chicken Parm: Chrismukkah Feasting](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/12/24/latkes-chicken-parm-chrismukkah-feasting/) - How two families--one Jewish-American, one Italian-American--approach holiday eating. Similar, yes, but different in one BIG way.
- [Salty Cashew Shortbread (Holiday Cookies)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/12/17/salty-cashew-shortbread-holiday-cookies/) - Naturally sweet cashews lend an air of mystery to a simple--yet irresistible--cookie. Perfect for gifting.
- [The Perfect Gift for Cheese-Lovers (and maybe picky eaters, too)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/12/16/the-perfect-gift-for-cheese-lovers/) - In a recipe from Melt by Stephanie Stiavetti & Garrett McCord, cozy, cheddar-topped apple pie meets a decadent version of classic mac & cheese.
- [Quick Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta Fazool)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/12/10/quick-pasta-e-fagioli-pasta-fazool/) - A rich, hearty, satisfying dinner-in-a-bowl, ready in less than half an hour and made with ingredients you've already got in your pantry.
- [Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pistachios & Warm Maple-Bacon Vinaigrette](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/11/25/shaved-brussels-sprouts-salad-with-pistachios-warm-maple-bacon-vinaigrette/) - Toss a tangle of raw, shredded Brussels sprouts with a tangy, lightly sweet dressing, then top with nuggets of crisp bacon and toasted pistachios.
- [How to Lose Weight During the Holidays](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/11/20/how-to-lose-weight-during-the-holidays/) - You may think the best you can hope for is to keep your weight steady through Thanksgiving, Hanukkah & Christmas, But with 3 simple tricks, you can lose weight instead.
- [Here, There, Everywhere](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/10/28/here-there-everywhere/) - This month finds my work appearing in more places than usual.
- [Chewy Quinoa Granola Bars: Picky Eater Lunchbox](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/10/26/chewy-quinoa-granola-bars-picky-eater-lunchbox/) - In less than 20 minutes you can make picky-eater-pleasing, nutrient-packed chewy granola bars that blow packaged bars out of the lunchbox.
- [A Healthy Halloween Treat](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/10/16/a-healthy-halloween-treat/) - A recipe for popcorn balls that's super-simple, not too sweet, and filled with unrefined, wholesome ingredients. Feel good about giving them to your kids!
- [The Perfect Fall Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/10/12/the-perfect-fall-salad/) - A perfect main course salad for a crisp-but-sunny Fall day: Spinach with roasted butternut squash & shallots, pecans, and bacon, with maple-balsamic vinaigrette.
- [Noodle-Free Vegetable Lasagna](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/10/10/noodle-free-vegetable-lasagna/) - Forget the noodles: Layer thin slices of eggplant and zucchini with sauce and cheese for a super-simple weeknight feast.
- [Late Summer (or Early Fall) Vegetable Fritters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/09/24/late-summer-or-early-fall-vegetable-fritters/) - The last of the late summer bounty combines with a handful of pantry staples to make a simple meal that's hearty enough for cool weather.
- [Five Simple Rules for Healthy Cooking](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/09/18/five-simple-rules-for-healthy-cooking/) - Most of us don't start out cooking from scratch, with whole grains and fresh ingredients. Here are five simple rules to prepare healthier foods.
- [How to Lose Your Mind While Throwing a Lego Star Wars Party](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/09/16/how-to-throw-a-lego-star-wars-party/) - Homemade marshmallow fondant is easier than you think, and it makes perfect Star Wars minifigures and Lego bricks.
- [Honeyed Carrots in the Slow Cooker](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/09/03/honeyed-carrots-in-the-slow-cooker/) - Cooking for Rosh Hashanah just got easier: Use the slow cooker to make a symbolically sweet honeyed carrot dish, scented with ginger and orange zest.
- [How I Spent My Summer Vacation](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/09/01/how-i-spent-my-summer-vacation/) - A chocolate chip cake covered in homemade marshmallow fondant, decorated with fondant bricks & Lego minifigures (Luke, Leia, Jek-14 & an army of clone troopers).
- [My Secret to Losing Weight](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/08/21/my-secret-to-losing-weight/) - Losing weight isn't about which program you follow. It's about getting out of your own way. Here's the simple trick that helped me lose 100 pounds.
- [Quick & Lemony, One-Pot Roasted Chicken & Vegetables](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/08/12/quick-lemony-one-pot-roasted-chicken-vegetables/) - All the flavor of lemon-garlic roast chicken, but in well under an hour. Using boneless chicken turns this into a perfect weeknight dinner.
- [Vegetable Popsicles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/08/01/treat-your-vegetables/) - Got a kid who hates vegetables? Here's how to turn that hate into love, by turning them into a treat.
- [Chives in her Baby's Hair: A Q&A with Clotilde Dusoulier](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/07/18/clotilde-dusoulier-french-market-cookbook/) - The creator of the award-winning food blog Chocolate & Zucchini talks about life as a new mom, and her new cookbook filled with French vegetarian recipes.
- [Attune in for Family-Friendly Food](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/07/17/attune-in-for-family-friendly-food/) - Of course I have a picky kid: I was a picky kid myself.
- [The Easiest Way to Pit Cherries](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/07/08/the-easiest-way-to-pit-cherries/) - You don't need a cherry-pitter gadget cluttering up your kitchen. Use this quick trick to pit a mountain of cherries in no time.
- [Frozen Watermelon Pop Stars](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/07/01/frozen-watermelon-pop-stars/) - Looking to set off some July 4th fireworks in your mouth? Check out these sweet, icy pops of kid-friendly yumminess. The easiest treat you'll make this year!
- [Shopping Diary Challenge: What You Learned](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/06/20/shopping-diary-challenge-what-you-learned/) - You kept a food shopping diary for a week--good for you! Now it's time to share what you've learned. You might win a Whole Foods gift card...
- [Take the Shopping Diary Challenge & Win a Whole Foods Gift Card!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/06/13/take-the-shopping-diary-challenge-win-a-whole-foods-gift-card/) - Take the Shopping Diary Challenge to see what you're buying, where you're buying it, and how much you're spending. You'll be surprised, I guarantee.
- [Roasted Vegetable Barley Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/30/roasted-vegetable-barley-salad/) - Toss roasted vegetables--any roasted vegetables--with cooked barley--or any whole grain--and a handful of flavorful extras for a super-simple main course salad.
- [Summer Preview: Ginger-Mint Fruit Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/23/ginger-mint-fruit-salad/) - The easiest way to turn less-than-fabulous fruit into something special: Toss with a super-easy syrup made with fresh ginger and mint.
- [A Customized Cooking Class with Yours Truly](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/22/a-customized-cooking-class-with-yours-truly/) - I'm embarrassed that I've waited until now to post about this... For a fundraiser auction, I've donated what might be my most precious commodity: My time. From now until tomorrow night (May 23) at Bidding for Good, you can bid on a customized, personalized, in-home cooking class with me. (They've called me a chef, which
- [How to Roast Vegetables](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/10/how-to-roast-vegetables/) - Roasted vegetables are incredibly versatile--and super-easy. Use this basic technique to roast just about any veg you've got.
- [Korean Meatloaf. You want this.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/03/korean-meatloaf/) - Laced with garlic, scallions, ginger, and soy sauce and finished with a sweet-and-salty glaze, this meatloaf combines the best elements of Eastern and Western food.
- [Three (or Four) Super-Cool Mother's Day Gifts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/05/01/three-super-cool-mothers-day-gifts/) - Surprise mom with one of these unique, inspiring, and smile-inducing presents. So much better than flowers!
- [Where You'll Find Me](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/04/19/where-youll-find-me/) - I've got a handful of appearances coming up in the Northeast, so if you're in the area come on by! I'd love to meet you. First up, for parents: On Saturday, April 27 (one week from tomorrow!), I'm giving a talk called "Baby Food 101" at Brooklyn Babyfest. I'll cover all the basics related to starting
- [Easy and Elegant: Lemony Wild Mushroom Pasta](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/04/18/easy-and-elegant-lemony-wild-mushroom-pasta/) - Toss a mix of wild mushrooms, garlic, lemon, and herbs with pasta for an easy main course, sophisticated enough for company. Ready in under 30 minutes!
- [Have You Sampled a Whole Grain Today? {Giveaway!}](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/04/03/have-you-sampled-a-whole-grain-today-giveaway/) - You may think today is April 3. OK, it is. But it’s also Whole Grain Sampling Day, a celebration organized by the Whole Grains Council. And you may have noticed, I’m a fan—I almost never miss a chance to swap in whole wheat flour, and this blog’s got recipes using cornmeal, wheatberries, oats, freekeh, brown
- [Almond Joy Cake. Yes, I Said Almond Joy Cake.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/03/26/almond-joy-cake/) - Layers of almond macaroon + chocolate + whipped coconut cream = a cake that tastes like candy. Kosher for Passover, but you'll want to eat this all year.
- [Passover and the Picky Eater](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/03/19/passover-and-the-picky-eater/) - I have no idea. No, seriously. Do you?
- [Banana Split with Friendly's Peanut Butter Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/03/13/banana-split-with-friendlys-peanut-butter-sauce/) - Just as thick, warm, and gooey as the original, only you control the sweetness. Makes a killer banana split!
- [My Kid Ate FISH](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/03/08/potato-chip-crusted-fish/) - Want to get a picky eater to eat fish? Coat it with crushed potato chips.
- [Gnocchi in Butternut Procrastination Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/03/05/gnocchi-butternut-sauce/) - A one-skillet meal starring tender, chewy gnocchi and soft butternut squash in a nutty, tart sauce of brown butter & blood orange juice.
- [Nutter Butters from Classic Snacks Made from Scratch](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/02/15/nutter-butters-from-classic-snacks-made-from-scratch/) - Classic Snacks Made from Scratch, Casey Barber's new cookbook, offers dozens of recipes for the processed snacks you grew up on. Here are her Nutter Butters.
- [I'm no genius. But I know genius when I see it.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/02/06/im-no-genius-but-i-know-genius-when-i-see-it/) - Next time you make sugar cookies or gingerbread men, try this trick when rolling out the dough. You'll be shocked how easy it is, and how neatly they bake!
- [Potato Skins Bar: Super Bowl Picky Eater Special](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/01/31/potato-skins-bar-super-bowl-picky-eater-special/) - The easiest way to feed a picky eater? Let 'em make their own meal! Bake a bunch of potatoes and offer an array of toppings for perfect customization.
- [Picky Eater Special: Individual Pot Pies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/01/29/picky-eater-special-individual-pot-pies/) - Got a picky eater? Instead of one large casserole, bake your pot pie in ramekins--you can customize the contents of each. Please everyone without extra work!
- [Better Late Than Never: Hot Cha-Cha Chili Seasoning Mix](https://debbiekoenig.com/2013/01/16/hot-cha-cha-chili-seasoning-mix/) - Whether you want to keep a ready supply on-hand for your own use or send it out as a hand-made gift, this Chili Mix will knock your socks off.
- [New Year's in Bulgaria: Banitsa (Cheese Pie)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/31/new-years-in-bulgaria-banitsa-cheese-pie/) - Made with phyllo, feta, and yogurt--plus a secret ingredient or two--this spiral-shaped pie is a traditional Bulgarian dish. Drizzle with honey, then serve.
- [Happy Holidays](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/18/happy-holidays/) - Harry is six. He's in first grade. And he has no idea how lucky we are. I do. Which is why blogging about holiday foods and parties and whatnot just feels weird to me right now. So rather than pretend everything is normal, I'll wish you and yours every possible good thing for the
- [Less-Oil Latkes for a Crowd](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/10/less-oil-latkes-for-a-crowd/) - Honor the spirit of Hanukkah by frying your latkes in just a little oil, then finishing in the oven. With tips on making latkes for a crowd.
- [30-Minute Holiday Baking: Sesame-Almond Crackers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/07/30-minute-holiday-baking-sesame-almond-crackers/) - A handful of ingredients plus ten minutes of work equals nutty little bites of heaven. Gluten-free heaven.
- [Best Cookbooks of 2012](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/05/best-cookbooks-of-2012/) - Two posts in one day! A rarity for me, but this is too wonderful not to share immediately: Leite's Culinaria, one of the most writerly food sites I know, has named Parents Need to Eat Too to their "Best Cookbooks of 2012" list. I'm stunned. Honored. Over the moon. And crying. (I'm having an emotional
- [Guest Post: Monica Bhide's A Life of Spice](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/05/guest-post-monica-bhides-a-life-of-spice/) - If you're not already reading Monica Bhide's work, you will be once I introduce you to her. She's one of my favorite writers: Her work is deeply personal and often moving, and although food is her lens the work is almost always about something larger. I've written before about Monica's book Modern Spice, and a
- [20-Minute Treat: Flourless Double Chocolate Cashew Bars](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/12/02/20-minute-treat-flourless-double-chocolate-cashew-bars/) - 5 minutes to mix. 15 minutes to bake. Chewy, chocolatey, nutty bars, perfect for cookie swaps, cookie trays, and cookie eating.
- [A Guide to the Other Little Italy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/29/the-other-little-italy/) - Forget Manhattan's Little Italy--the real deal is on Arthur Avenue, in the Belmont section of the Bronx. This guidebook tells you everything you need to know.
- [Special Offer: The Perfect Gift for New Parents](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/26/special-offer-give-expectant-parents-the-gift-of-eating/) - Looking for the perfect holiday gift for new parents? A signed copy of Parents Need to Eat Too is just the thing. With proof of purchase, I'll send you a free custom-made signed bookplate & holiday card!
- [Sanity-Saving, Last-Minute Dinner Trick](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/21/sanity-saving-last-minute-dinner-trick/) - A woman with a pretty short list of acceptable processed foods just added another: individually wrapped dinnertime building blocks using simple ingredients.
- [Thanksgiving Countdown](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/19/thanksgiving-countdown/) - With a little planning, even a meal as huge and stressful as Thanksgiving is (relatively) easy to pull off.
- [Spread the Word: Election Day Sandy Fundraiser Bake Sale](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/05/sandy-fundraiser-bake-sale/) - BAKE SALE UPDATE November 7: It was a huge success! At PS 84 we raised an astounding $1600, and 110 raised more than $600. Together we're sending well over $2000 to Sandy relief. I'm so proud of our community. More than 50 parents from Williamsburg and Greenpoint got involved, many of whose kids aren't even
- [Switch Witchery](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/11/01/switch-witchery/) - Forget Santa. Next Halloween, invite the Switch Witch. She doesn't just leave a toy: She takes away all the candy! More for mom & dad...
- [Strawberry Hurricane Muffins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/10/29/strawberry-hurricane-muffins/) - Tender, lightly sweet whole-grain muffins studded with chunks of strawberries. Easy to make, and a perfect start to a stormy day.
- [Eight Things About Eight Years](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/10/25/eight-things-about-eight-years/) - Eight years ago yesterday, my first child was born. I called it Words to Eat By. In honor of my baby’s blogaversary, I thought I’d share one highlight from each of its years, including some recipes that remain on my go-to list even now: 2005. For my first-ever guest post, the choice of writer was
- [Cat O'Lantern: A Play in Three Acts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/10/23/cat-olantern-a-play-in-three-acts/) - The kid wants to make a jack o'lantern shaped like a cat. Guess who does all the work?
- [(Not Too) Cheesy Zucchini Fritters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/10/18/cheesy-zucchini-fritters/) - Zucchini meets potato, feta, and Parmesan cheese in a light yet filling take on potato pancakes.
- [Catching Up, Plus a Recipe for Crispy Kale, Winter Squash, and Cheddar Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/10/10/kale-winter-squash-and-cheddar-pizza/) - Imagine a pizza topped with crunchy kale chips, sweet winter squash, and salty cheddar cheese. Add a hit of balsamic. You're welcome.
- [Organics & Parents](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/09/24/organics-parents/) - Last week I pulled out my soapbox for Parents.com. In "Why I'll Still Buy Organic," I explain, well, why I'll still buy organic food even though researchers at Stanford University found that it's no more nutritious than conventionally farmed. To me, that's not exactly news. Click through to read why. How about you? Did all
- [Traditional Rosh Hashana Menu](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/09/15/traditional-rosh-hashana-menu/) - From chicken soup with matzo balls to brisket to two amazing apple cakes, one apple, one chocolate-honey, the ultimate traditional Rosh Hashana menu.
- [Coming to the Institute of Culinary Education: Parents Need to Eat Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/09/11/coming-to-the-institute-of-culinary-education-parents-need-to-eat-too/) - For one day only, Debbie Koenig is teaching Parents Need to Eat Too at New York's renowned cooking school, the Institute of Culinary Education.
- [Happy Accident](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/09/10/lemon-balm-pesto/) - A mistake at the farmers' market leads to a very happy ending: Light, citrus-scented pesto made with fresh lemon balm.
- [How I Spent My Saturday Night](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/09/02/how-i-spent-my-saturday-night/) - Frosting and candy decorate a 3-D Millennium Falcon cake, while a toothpick and spray color is all it takes to make an amazing Death Star.
- [Star Wars Birthday Party Planning](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/08/31/star-wars-birthday-party-planning/) - It's birthday time. Please pray for me. Harry's birthday wasn't always a sign of Mommy's Impending Nervous Breakdown. His first one went smoothly enough, just cute little cupcakes. I don't think he minded. Or maybe he did. By his second year, some weird, ambitious fire had been lit within me. He'd developed an interest obsession
- [Corn, Zucchini, and Spicy Pesto Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/08/27/corn-zucchini-and-spicy-pesto-pizza/) - A zesty, quick, and easy pesto, topped with fresh corn and zucchini, makes the perfect summertime pizza.
- [Roasted North African Ratatouille Over Freekeh](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/08/09/roasted-north-african-ratatouille-over-freekeh/) - An easy weeknight ratatouille with an unexpected twist: Aleppo pepper, preserved lemon, mint, and freekeh take the classic dish to North Africa.
- [Roasted Asparagus with Brown Butter & Pine Nuts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/07/10/roasted-asparagus-with-brown-butter-pine-nuts/) - Three (or maybe four) ingredients come together lightning-fast for a ridiculously satisfying, vegetarian dish.
- [100 Pounds Lost, 15 Years Later](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/07/05/100-pounds-lost-15-years-later/) - 15 years ago, I lost 100 pounds on Weight Watchers. Keeping it off hasn't been easy.
- [Tropical Any-Grain Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/07/03/tropical-grain-salad/) - Combine any whole-grain (quinoa, wheatberries, brown rice) with a handful of ingredients from the tropics (coconut, black beans) and toss in papaya-seed dressing.
- [Don't Call It a Smoothie: Triple-Berry Fruit Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/29/dont-call-it-a-smoothie-triple-berry-fruit-soup/) - Thinner and more elegant than a smoothie, this chilled fruit soup is perfect for summer. Yogurt and avocado make it filling enough for a meal.
- [On Buying Organics](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/25/on-buying-organics/) - I'm amazed I've never written about this here before (I did in my book, so maybe that's why I felt like I'd covered it?): Each year the Environmental Working Group analyzes USDA and FDA data concerning pesticide residue on conventionally-grown produce. Essentially, they crunch a bunch of numbers and figure out which fruits and vegetables
- [Perfect for Father’s Day? Parmesan-Stuffed Dates Wrapped in Bacon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/15/parmesan-stuffed-dates-wrapped-in-bacon/) - The easiest, most deceptively elegant--and most delicious--hors d'oeuvres ever: Slip Parmesan & a Marcona almond inside a date, wrap with bacon, and bake. Crazy good.
- [Genius: Chocolate Chip Cookie “Cupcakes”](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/12/genius-chocolate-chip-cookie-cupcakes/) - Take the Best Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough in the Entire World and bake in cupcake liners instead of cookie sheets. Thick, chewy, irresistible. Genius.
- [Your Weekend Treat: Cinnamon Sugar Popovers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/08/cinnamon-sugar-popovers/) - Like a freshly made cinnamon donut only much, much better: Popovers are custardy inside, crisp outside, and coated with melted butter and cinnamon sugar.
- [Family-Friendly Korean: Vegetable Jap Chae](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/06/06/family-friendly-korean-vegetable-jap-chae/) - Salty, sweet, packed with vegetables--and totally kid-friendly--Korean japchae is surprisingly easy. Liven up your weeknight dinners with an unexpected treat.
- [My New Weight Watchers Blog: Feed the Parents](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/30/my-new-weight-watchers-blog-feed-the-parents/) - Weight Watchers holds a very special place in my heart. There's the whole I Lost 100 Pounds thing, of course. And the I Lost the 25 Pounds I Gained Writing a Cookbook thing. But there's also something else, a significance in my professional life: Weight Watchers was my first food-writing client. Not long after I
- [Teriyaki Mushroom & Spinach Handpies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/22/teriyaki-mushroom-spinach-handpies/) - Stir-fry mushrooms, spinach, and tofu in a simple teriyaki sauce, then wrap in prepared piecrust for a vegetarian hand-held meal that'll please meat-eaters.
- [Use Your Leftovers: Herb Chicken Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/17/herb-chicken-pizza/) - Q: What to do with leftover chicken? A: Pizza! This recipe uses a quick garlic-and-herb sauce instead of tomato, and roasted zucchini to make a complete meal.
- [Two, Count Em Two, Chances to Win](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/14/two-count-em-two-chances-to-win/) - In addition to a haircut from Harry, I got a pair of sweet Mother's Day gifts this weekend: Two of my favorite food writers posted blush-inducing (in me, anyway) reviews of Parents Need to Eat Too, complete with giveaways: Carolyn Cope, aka Umami Girl, had this to say: Parents Need to Eat Too is a smart,
- [Triple-Chocolate Zucchini Muffins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/10/triple-chocolate-zucchini-muffins/) - Don't sneak vegetable purees into your kids' food! Use veggies in new & tempting ways, like these rich, chocolaty--but not too decadent--muffins.
- [The World’s Easiest Mother’s Day Menu [Recipe: Linguine with Pecorino, Lemon, and Mint]](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/08/linguine-with-pecorino-lemon-and-mint/) - Make Mother's Day dinner for mom--even if can't cook! A 3-course menu featuring a quick soup, lemony linguine, and peanut butter cookies for dessert.
- [Slow Cooker Spinach, Peas & Pear Risotto: Recipe & Giveaway!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/05/02/slow-cooker-spinach-peas-pear-risotto/) - Risotto has never been easier: This recipe is made in the slow cooker--no stirring required. And to make it even simpler, it's flavored with pureed baby food!
- [Mother's Day Special: Free Signed Bookplates!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/28/mothers-day-special-free-signed-bookplates/) - Forget flowers, massages jewelry: What new moms really want is HELP. Parents Need to Eat Too is a cookbook, but it's also a guide to getting life back to normal.
- [The Naptime Chef's Busy Day Linguine](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/26/busy-day-linguine/) - Pancetta--an Italian bacon, of sorts--livens up a quick tomato sauce for pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes!
- [Book Signing THIS SUNDAY at Wee Babe in Williamsburg!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/25/book-signing-this-sunday-at-wee-babe-in-williamsburg/) - I'll be signing copies of Parents Need to Eat Too at Wee Babe, a new baby & kids shop in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
- [Truer Words Were Never Spoken: Mean Moms Rule](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/23/mean-moms-rule/) - At last, a parenting book that actually makes you feel like you know what you're doing. "Mean" doesn't mean, y'know, mean--it means firm, smart, empowered.
- [Oprah + Hail Mary = Heaven](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/17/oprah-hail-mary-heaven/) - Oprah's web site posted my recipe for Hail Mary Pasta, the one from my cookbook! WHOA. I can totally see it: One night, the Lady O herself was sweating bullets that Stedman was on his way home when she hadn't even started dinner yet, so she tossed some vegs into the oven & put on water
- [Quick Snack for One Recipe: Microwave Parmesan Potato Chips](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/16/microwave-potato-chips/) - Jonesing for a salty, crunchy snack? All you need is a potato, a microwave, and some Parmesan cheese. And you don't really need the Parm.
- [An Event for Dads: Mother's Day Dinner for Non-Cooks](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/13/mothers-day-dinner-for-non-cooks/) - Dads: Is your kitchen skill limited to pouring cereal? Learn how to make an amazing, super-easy Mother's Day dinner from the author of Parents Need to Eat Too.
- [Passover Birthday Cake: Flourless Chocolate-Raspberry Torte](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/11/flourless-chocolate-raspberry-torte/) - Kosher for Passover, but decadent enough to make any birthday special. Cake made with chocolate, pureed raspberries, and ground almonds, topped with rich ganache.
- [Join Me for a MommyBites Lunch, May 16](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/04/02/join-me-for-a-mommybites-lunch-may-16/) - On May 16 I'll be the featured guest at Baby Food 101, a moms' lunch organized by MommyBites. Location: Sheep Station, Park Slope, Brooklyn. Bring the baby!
- [New at BabyCenter](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/29/new-at-babycenter/) - Just a quicker-than-quick update on my doings at BabyCenter... Making your own baby food is ridiculously easy, as long as you use what you're already cooking for yourself. It's the whole idea behind the "make baby food" postscript that ends all my recipes. Get the lowdown on how to turn anything you cook into baby
- [I Love The Kitchn, and The Kitchn Loves Me (& my book)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/27/i-love-the-kitchn/) - My day is made. Possibly my week. The Kitchn, one of my favorite food sites, just checked in with a rave for Parents Need to Eat Too: Debbie has long written one of my favorite food blogs, Words to Eat By. She's smart and funny, and a terrific writer. Her first book is all about
- [Well That Was Fast (seedlings!)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/26/well-that-was-fast-seedlings/) - Less than a week ago, I plunked seeds into a Jump Start seed starter tray. Green beans, kale, and basil are doing nicely. The rest, not so much.
- [How Does My Garden Grow? Seriously, how?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/20/how-does-my-garden-grow/) - A woman who has never successfully grown so much as a fern attempts to start a container garden in her Brooklyn backyard.
- [I Quit](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/17/i-quit/) - I've had enough of my son's picky eating. I quit. I'm done. Outta here. And the Huffington Post was kind enough to publish my Mom's Resignation Letter.
- [Smoky Sweet Potato & Black Bean Enchiladas](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/16/smoky-sweet-potato-enchiladas/) - Vegetarian enchiladas: pantry cooking at its finest. Smoky chipotles in adobo add a nice kick.
- [My Writing Life](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/14/my-writing-life/) - Sarah Caron interviewed me for She Knows, about my life as a writer.
- [Big Batch Bonanza on ABC News! (Baked Macaroni with Ricotta, Spinach & Mint)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/12/watch-me-cook-on-abc-news-baked-macaroni-with-ricotta-spinach-mint/) - ABC News invited me to cook Baked Macaroni with Ricotta, Spinach & Mint from my cookbook, Parents Need to Eat Too.
- [How to Make Hamantaschen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/07/how-to-make-hamantaschen/) - Tips for rolling out, forming, and baking the best Purim hamantaschen ever.
- [Chorizo & Potato Tacos](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/03/06/chorizo-potato-tacos/) - Spicy Mexican sausage and crusty chunks of potato, inside soft tacos. The kind of food you ate after a long night of partying, now an easy weeknight meal.
- [Come & Meet Me at The Brooklyn Kitchen THIS SATURDAY!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/28/come-meet-me-at-the-brooklyn-kitchen-this-saturday/) - I've mentioned this before, but just a reminder: My one and only (so far) book event is happening this Saturday, March 3, at The Brooklyn Kitchen. Right here in Williamsburg. It's free! And kids are welcome! And I'll be cooking! And there are still some tickets left! Reserve here, or by calling the store. It's
- [NYC Peeps: Catch Me on NY1!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/24/nyc-peeps-catch-me-on-ny1/) - Dude. I'm on TV. Talking to NY1's Shelley Goldberg. In scary HD, even. If you're local, I'm told this'll air something like 20 or 25 times over the next few days. Or you can just do what I do: watch online, over and over. Those bananas look so, um, sexual after a while... If you're
- [Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/22/slow-cooker-chicken-fajitas/) - Newsflash: This morning I've got another guest post, this time at Kelsey Banfield's The Naptime Chef. Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas, yo!
- [Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower & Lemon-Parmesan Breadcrumbs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/22/pasta-with-roasted-cauliflower-lemon-parmesan-breadcrumbs/) - The easiest way for a new parent to get her vegetables: Roast them. And toss them with whole grain pasta, then top with lemon-scented toasted breadcrumbs.
- [Easy Sweet Treat: Cinnamon Toast Wonton Crisps](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/17/cinnamon-toast-wonton-crisps/) - When you need a quick hit of crunchy sweetness, pull out the wonton wrappers and cinnamon sugar. Twenty minutes later: satisfaction.
- [Ask the Expert (that would be me) at CafeMom!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/17/ask-the-expert-that-would-be-me-at-cafemom/) - For the next week, I'm answering questions about cooking for yourself and your baby over at CafeMom.
- [Scholastic Parent & Child weighs in](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/16/scholastic-parent-child-weighs-in/) - One of the most respected parenting magazines out there endorses Parents Need to Eat Too.
- [Booklist Raves About Parents Need to Eat Too!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/15/booklist-raves-about-parents-need-to-eat-too/) - Less than one week before the book goes on sale, Booklist weighs in with a rave review.
- [Me. Illustrated with Crappy Pictures](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/11/me-illustrated-with-crappy-pictures/) - Amber of Parenting. Illustrated with Crappy Pictures drew me! And my chocolate chip cookies! And she's giving away a copy of my book!
- [Easy Snack for the Class: Homemade Wheat Thins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/11/homemade-wheat-thins/) - Making homemade, whole-grain crackers is about a thousand times easier than you think. And boy, do they make kids happy.
- [Salt & Your Baby](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/09/salt-your-baby/) - If you're making food just for baby, absolutely skip the salt. But if you want to cook once and feed everyone, how do you deal?
- [I'm Hitting the (Virtual) Road: The Blog Tour Has Begun!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/07/im-hitting-the-virtual-road-the-blog-tour-has-begun/) - Since I can't be everywhere at once, I'll be right at home--your home--via every website that'll have me.
- [Slow Cooker Winter Vegetable Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/03/slow-cooker-winter-vegetable-soup/) - Butternut squash, escarole, and wheatberries simmer in the slow cooker all day to create the perfect winter soup.
- [Join Me at BabyCenter!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/02/02/join-me-at-babycenter/) - When the lovely folks at BabyCenter invited me to blog for them, I couldn't say no.
- [FREE with all pre-orders!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/31/get-your-free-starter-kit/) - Order Parents Need to Eat Too before the cookbook goes on sale, and you'll receive an exclusive, free starter kit!
- [Wordless Wednesday](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/25/wordless-wednesday/) - In just four weeks, Parents Need to Eat Too: Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals & Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents goes on sale.
- [Muffin-Tin Spanakopitza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/24/muffin-tin-spanakopitza/) - Greek spinach pie meets pizza dough meets muffin tin, for a tasty, tidy meal you can eat with one hand.
- [Slow Cooker Chorizo Chili](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/19/slow-cooker-chorizo-chili/) - Fresh Mexican-style chorizo, Ro-Tel, and beer give this slow-cooker chili maximum flavor with minimum effort. It's the best chili ever.
- [Paula Deen, Type II Diabetes, and Me](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/17/paula-deen-type-ii-diabetes-and-me/) - Instead of using her diagnosis to revamp her lifestyle and her message, Paula Deen chose the irresponsible route: She hid the news until she could monetize it.
- [My First Review!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/16/my-first-review/) - The first review of my cookbook, Parents Need to Eat Too, is in. Library Journal likes it!
- [Super-Simple Side: Roasted Broccoli with Lemon & Parmesan](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/13/roasted-broccoli-with-lemon-parmesan/) - A company-worthy side from less than 10 minutes of work: Roasted broccoli topped with salty, crunchy melted Parmesan and sprinkled with lemon juice.
- [Greek Stewed Vegetables](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/10/greek-stewed-vegetables/) - Eggplant, zucchini, peppers, carrots & potatoes take a good long simmer in the oven's gentle heat and emerge meltingly, irresistibly soft.
- [What a Difference a Decade Makes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/08/ten-years-ago-today/) - What were you doing exactly ten years ago? At 7:29PM on January 8, 2002, I was drunk. Not on alcohol (though there was wine, lots of wine). On possibility. Ten years ago today I left one life and started another. 9/11 was barely four months past; most New Yorkers still walked around in a daze.
- [Brown Butter Noodles: World's Easiest Comfort Food](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/05/brown-butter-noodles-worlds-easiest-comfort-food/) - Comfort food in a flash: Leftover egg noodles cooked in brown butter until the edges crisp irresistibly.
- [Watch the Trailer for Parents Need to Eat Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/2012/01/04/trailer-for-parents-need-to-eat-too/) - New baby leaving you no time to eat, never mind cook? Parents Need to Eat Too, the first cookbook for new parents, has the answers. Watch the trailer:
- [Last-Minute Christmas Cookie: Chocolate-Mint Spritz](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/23/chocolate-mint-spritz/) - Need a last-minute Christmas treat--one fancy enough for gifting? If you've got a cookie press, all you need is some cocoa & mint extract and you're on your way.
- [Happy Birthday To Me. Yeah, Yeah, Whatever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/22/happy-birthday-to-me-yeah-yeah-whatever/) - Birthdays are a touchy subject for me. December 22 is just too mucked up with holiday fever. I’ve whined about that before, so I won’t bore you with details of years past here. This year, with my birthday falling during Hanukkah and holiday celebrations the weekend before (Stephen’s family, for the annual pre-Christmas gathering) and
- [Curried Chicken & Sweet Potato Pot Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/21/curried-chicken-pot-pie/) - Chunks of chicken breast mingle with sweet potatoes, apples, and curry powder for a twist on the comfort food classic, Chicken Pot Pie.
- [Spiced (But Not Spicy) Hot Cocoa Mix](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/09/spiced-hot-cocoa-mix/) - Spike a homemade mix for rich, smooth hot cocoa with cinnamon, ancho chile, and nutmeg, and warm the hearts of everyone you meet.
- [How to Make Marshmallows, for Absolute Beginners (Recipe: Cinnamon Marshmallows)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/08/how-to-make-marshmallows-for-absolute-beginners-recipe-cinnamon-marshmallows/) - Never used a candy thermometer before? Or worked with gelatin? Don't let that stop you! Making homemade cinnamon marshmallows--and mini-marshmallows--is messy, but surprisingly easy.
- [Great Cookbooks for Holiday Gifts (Recipe: Quick Olive Focaccia)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/05/great-cookbooks-for-holiday-gifts/) - What do you get when you combine pre-made pizza dough and jarred tapenade? A chewy, salty, juicy bread that tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen.
- [Fill-in-the-Blanks Pinwheel Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/03/fill-in-the-blanks-pinwheel-cookies/) - It's a busy parent's dream cookie: make the dough in one session, fill and roll in another, then slice and bake whenever you want! Bonus: you can fill them with just about anything.
- [Get Your (free) Signed Bookplates & Holiday Cards Here!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/02/the-bookplates-are-here/) - Got a pregnant sister-in-law/cousin/friend/niece/what-have-you? Maybe your son just adopted? Pre-order Parents Need to Eat Too, and I'll send a signed bookplate and blank holiday card to wrap and give for the holidays.
- [QSS Potato Leek Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/12/01/potato-leek-soup/) - Simple enough to make for lunch, but satisfying enough to keep you filled until dinner. Mild leeks and chunky potatoes are simmered in broth, then topped with crisp bacon, finely chopped apples, and smoked paprika.
- [Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce + Maple Syrup = Breakfast!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/29/slow-cooker-cranberry-sauce/) - When you're married to a person who hates cooked fruit, sometimes you've just got to make the damned cranberry sauce anyway.
- [Gratitude](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/23/gratitude/) - In which I stand on stage, naked, and wait for the applause.
- [Truce in the Picky Eater War](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/19/truce-in-the-picky-eater-war/) - Dinnertime battles are a thing of the past. I hope. My son may not be asking for kale, but at least my blood pressure has gone down.
- [Thanksgiving-Friendly Recipes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/18/thanksgiving-recipes/) - Still looking for that perfect dish to bring to Aunt Edith’s? Look no further—you’ll find everything but the turkey on this list, a collection of my most autumnal (and celebratory) recipes. Gobble gobble, folks. And if you’d rather not gobble gobble until you pass out, here’s a piece I wrote last year, all about How to
- [Almond Snickerdoodles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/17/almond-snickerdoodles/) - Adding almond flour to a basic snickerdoodle recipe makes cookies so good, they don't even need chocolate.
- [Parchment Paper Chicken with Sage, Brown Butter & Sweet Potatoes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/15/parchment-paper-chicken/) - Quick, easy, delicious: Chicken breasts with brown butter, crisp sage leaves, and tender sweet potatoes, all cooked in parchment. Perfect for when you're too swamped to pull off cooking AND cleaning.
- [Quick & Smoky Chicken Stew](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/10/quick-smoky-chicken-stew/) - Some days, you just can't swing a stew that simmers all afternoon. This one, featuring chicken, potatoes, carrots, and bacon, is ready in well under an hour.
- [Winners! We have winners!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/08/winners-we-have-winners-2/) - First, thank you to all who entered the Let's Launch Debbie's New Site giveaway! I'm touched to see so many old friends, and to make so many new ones. Now, on to what you've been waiting for: The winners, all selected via Random.org. Each of you will receive a galley copy of Parents Need to Eat
- [Roasted Root Vegetable Crostata (Playing with Leftovers)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/08/roasted-root-vegetable-crostata/) - Turn leftover roasted vegetables and prepared piecrust into a super-easy weeknight dinner.
- [How Do You Stop Caring?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/04/how-do-you-stop-caring/) - How do you stop caring what your child eats, to stand back so he can learn to love food on his own?
- [One-Handed Meals: Garlicky Pepperoni Parmesan Pinwheels](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/03/pepperoni-parmesan-pinwheels/) - Pepperoni, Parmesan, garlic, and mozzarella get rolled up inside pizza dough, sliced, and baked. Made deceptively healthy, and perfect for parents of new babies, who need food they can eat with one hand.
- [Welcome to Parents Need to Eat Too {Giveaway!}](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/11/01/welcome/) - announcing the launch of Debbie Koenig's new blog
- [Seven Years](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/25/seven-years/) - Seven years ago today, I hit “publish” on my very first blog post. Since I imagine that most of you haven’t been reading along with me from Day One, now seemed like a good time for a brief(ish) recap of the highlights of my blogging life. If you've been following for all seven years: Hi,
- [(Meatless Mostdays) Pam Anderson’s Cook without a Book: Meatless Meals](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/24/meatless-mostdays-pam-andersons-cook-without-a-book-meatless-meals/) - You know how sometimes, when you finally meet an idol, you totally screw it up? You don’t? Oh. Well then you’ll really get a kick out of this story. Two weeks ago I attended the launch event for Kat Flinn’s new book, The Kitchen Counter Cooking School—I wrote about it here. You may recall I
- [Oh, Happy Day](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/20/oh-happy-day/) - What were you doing at 10:08 this morning? Were you forced to cover your ears due to a sudden, ear-piercing shriek of pure joy? Sorry bout that. My book's galleys arrived at 10:07, and as soon as I signed and handed back the stylus I ripped open the package, still on my front stoop, and
- [Melissa Clark’s Figgy, Piggy Chicken](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/19/melissa-clarks-figgy-piggy-chicken/) - My worlds have been colliding lately. Take this (unbelievably delicious) recipe involving chicken, figs, and bacon. It’s by Melissa Clark, from her first cookbook. Y’know, the one I mentioned a week ago today, in my story about Melissa’s new book. The one I wrote the catalog copy for. The one whose manuscript pages I still
- [Zen and the Art of Decorating Cookies with Kids](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/14/zen-and-the-art-of-decorating-cookies-with-kids/) - How’s that for a black cat? My secret: King Arthur Flour’s black cocoa. Use the same cocoa (and the recipe below) for homemade Oreos! I love baking cookies with Harry. Love watching him learn to scoop flour into the measuring cup, to stir the dry ingredients gently so that they don’t fly out of the
- [A Stroll Through the Park with Melissa Clark (Recipe: Figgy Demerara Snacking Cake)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/12/a-stroll-through-the-park-with-melissa-clark-recipe-figgy-demerara-snacking-cake/) - Melissa cradles her nectarines. Melissa Clark is one of those people who talks to strangers. Or more accurately, strangers talk to her. We were discussing okra at the Union Square Greenmarket. Or more accurately, since I have zero experience cooking the little green fellows, Melissa was teaching me about okra. While sifting through a bin
- [The Kitchen Counter Cooking School (Recipe: Velvety Chilled Rosemary Carrot Soup)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/10/the-kitchen-counter-cooking-school-recipe-velvety-chilled-rosemary-carrot-soup/) - People magazine gave Kat’s book four stars! I do, too. You’ll find the recipe for the contents of those glasses at the end of this post. As soon as I saw the title of Kathleen Flinn’s new book, I knew it would claim a place of pride on my shelf: The Kitchen Counter Cooking
- [Fresh Fig Galette with Cinnamon Honey](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/10/07/fresh-fig-galette-with-cinnamon-honey/) - I have a secret to share with you. Lean in… closer… Are you ready? OK then: I used to be afraid of figs. Not the dried kind, lord no! Those I use with abandon, in recipes like Whole Wheat Fig & Pecan Bread and one of my favorite dishes for this time of year, Pasta
- [Guest Post: Julie’s Salted Nutroll Cupcakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/27/guest-post-julies-salted-nutroll-cupcakes/) - A few weeks ago I introduced you to Amber, a hilarious friend with a hot new parenting blog called Parenting. Illustrated with Crappy Pictures. You may recall, we met years ago on a message board. Today you’re going to meet Julie, a mutual friend Amber and I met in the same place, at the same
- [Rosh Hashanah Roundup 2011](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/26/rosh-hashanah-roundup-2011/) - This is just not possible. Seriously, Rosh Hashanah starts on Wednesday night? How did we get so far into the year? I dealt with the fact that Harry started kindergarten. He’s in big-kid school, eating in the big-kid cafeteria (last year they ate in their Pre-K classroom). He’s learning to read. He’s learning Spanish. I’m
- [How to Make a Lightning McQueen Cake, Part II: Sculpting and Frosting](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/23/how-to-make-a-lightning-mcqueen-cake-part-ii-sculpting-and-frosting/) - When last we met, my chocolate chip cake had just spent 85 minutes baking. I’d lashed together two cooling racks just to fit the darn thing. And just as I was mopping the flop sweat off my brow, I noticed that the center of this very large cake was sinking. Quickly. I cried. There was
- [How to Make a Lightning McQueen Cake, Part I (Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cake)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/19/how-to-make-a-lightning-mcqueen-cake-part-i-recipe-chocolate-chip-cake/) - Photo courtesy of Sue M. Harry’s 5th birthday party was, oh, a month ago. It’s high time I tell you all about the most important part: the cake. This is the third in an annual series, in which Harry requests a cake that is far beyond my skill set, and I get in way over
- [Guest Post: Dinner Parties, Before & After Kids](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/16/guest-post-dinner-parties-before-after-kids/) - I can't tell you how excited I am to introduce today's guest blogger: Amber Dusick, the genius behind a hilarious new parenting blog called Parenting. Illustrated with Crappy Pictures. Perhaps you've already heard of her (I've plugged Crappy Pictures on WTEB's Facebook page, and her blog's a nominee for Parents magazine's Funniest Mom Blog. Which
- [City Girl Visits Farm](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/09/14/city-girl-visits-farm/) - That’s me in late June, notebook in hand, looking out over a lush, thriving field of wheat at The Rodale Institute in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. I was there to witness in person the experiment cooked up by Dave Poorbaugh of Daisy Flour, to reintroduce to the market the same varieties of wheat that were grown in
- [Daisy Flour in the Washington Post](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/08/31/daisy-flour-in-the-washington-post/) - A few months ago, I was invited to tour a gorgeous, historic flouring mill in Pennsylvania owned by McGeary Organics, who use the mill to grind wheat into Daisy Flour, a heritage brand available mostly in the mid-Atlantic. Today a story I wrote about Daisy, and their efforts to ensure the mills' next several hundred
- [Peanut Butter-Chocolate Pudding Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/08/12/peanut-butter-chocolate-pudding-pie/) - For Mikey. And Jennie. And their little girls.
- [Cornmeal Crusted Flounder with Smoky Apricot Salsa](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/08/11/cornmeal-crusted-flounder-with-smoky-apricot-salsa/) - I like fish. Stephen doesn’t. Harry likes fish but only in stick form, and only sometimes, and he keeps things interesting by occasionally insisting he only likes Dr. Praeger’s Fishies. Y'know, the ones that are shaped like actual fish. The ones I haven’t served him in a good two years. But friends, do I let
- [Food for Thought: 5 Ways Hurried Moms Can Make Math Easy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/08/09/food-for-thought-5-ways-hurried-moms-can-make-math-easy/) - Laura Laing is a writer friend whose new book, Math for Grownups: Re-Learn the Arithmetic You Forgot from School, is perfect for people like me, who sorta remember how to figure out percentages by hand but never actually trust that the final number is correct... Who know that there are 16 tablespoons in a cup,
- [Maple-Cinnamon Butter (for the best biscuits I ever made)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/08/04/maple-cinnamon-butter-for-the-best-biscuits-i-ever-made/) - I have lost my writing mojo. It may have something to do with the insomnia that’s been raging for the last week or two—most nights I wake up sometime between 3 and 4, and don’t fall back asleep until dawn. At the moment I half-wish I were Malcolm McDowell in A Clockwork Orange; that third
- [It’s Real. It’s Really Really Real.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/28/its-real-its-really-really-real/) - Yesterday I went into Manhattan (a rare occurrence these days) to return the copyedited manuscript of Parents Need to Eat Too: Naptime Cooking, One-Handed Meals & Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents to Amy, my editor. The next time I see it, the pages will be laid out like, y’know, an actual book, which is
- [Summery Swiss Chard, Corn, Peach, and Quinoa Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/25/summery-swiss-chard-corn-peach-and-quinoa-salad/) - I’ll make this brief, since I’m due to return the copyedited manuscript for Parents Need to Eat Too* to my editor, um, last week. All 651 pages of it. There is so.much packed into this cookbook! It overflows with recipes, ideas, kitchen hacks, and information—from other moms, from nutrition and lactation experts, and from, well,
- [Local Roots CSA Is Hosting a Supper Club](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/22/local-roots-csa-is-hosting-a-supper-club/) - My CSA, the one I've raved about before, is hosting a little dinner party-cum-supper club using ingredients from the various farms and vendors who supply the group. The menu's above; I can't decide which sounds more exciting, that fresh fettucine with basil & chive pesto, or the red wine braised short ribs. But we all
- [Picky Eater Special: Korean-Style Beef Lettuce Wraps with Ginger-Lime Noodles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/18/picky-eater-special-korean-style-beef-lettuce-wraps-with-ginger-lime-noodles/) - Picky eaters and hot weather don’t always mix. While Harry’s always down for fruit, which in summertime opens a huge window of opportunity, when it comes to dinner most of my barely-cooked options aren’t exactly met with enthusiasm. He refuses Black Bean, Corn, and Tomato Salad before it hits his plate: too many ingredients touching
- [Parents Need to Eat Too: Summer Session Starts August 3 at Caribou Baby!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/15/parents-need-to-eat-too-summer-session-starts-august-3-at-caribou-baby/) - Just a quickie, to announce that my first round of classes at the terrific Greenpoint baby shop Caribou Baby went so well, we're doing it again! This round will meet for three consecutive Wednesdays from 10:30 to noon, starting August 3. Full details at Caribou's site. Struggling to figure out how to cook for yourself
- [Williamsburg's New Meatball Shop: We'll Be Back. Oh, Yes We Will.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/15/williamsburgs-new-meatball-shop-well-be-back-oh-yes-we-will/) - the view from our little corner Sometimes I wonder why I'm so attached to New York City; honestly, my life is so confined to my own little corner of Brooklyn that I'm essentially living a small-town life. I leave Williamsburg once a week, maybe, and that's usually to hit Trader Joe's or (gasp) Target. The
- [Picky Eater Special: Make-Your-Own Taco Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/11/picky-eater-special-make-your-own-taco-salad/) - When I moderated a panel on dealing with picky eaters at the BlogHer Food conference in May, I snagged a handful of good ideas for experimentation. The biggest one: Taco Night. All three of my co-panelists proclaimed it a can’t-miss way to make everyone happy, even if—as Caroline of Devil and Egg said—your kid’s idea
- [Holy Crap, I LOVE My CSA! (Pink Asian Noodle Soup)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/07/holy-crap-i-love-my-csa/) - Tonight's haul from Local Roots NYC: A large bunch of unbelievably beautiful red amaranth (aka Chinese spinach) A large bunch of curly kale Enough green radicchio for several salads A bouquet of purple basil so pretty I want to walk down the aisle carrying it Golf-ball-sized radishes, perfect for these outrageous-looking Cinnamon Sugar Radish Chips
- [I Baked a Pie! A Good One, at Last!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/07/05/i-baked-a-pie-a-good-one-at-last/) - You may have heard the rumors. They’re spreading like wildfire all over the internets. Psst! Debbie baked a pie! And it wasn’t a disaster! My friends, it’s true. I baked a mighty fine pie today, completely from scratch. If you know me at all, you know that this is an Extremely Big Deal. See, pie
- [Chocolaty Almond Butter Banana Smoothie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/06/22/chocolaty-almond-butter-banana-smoothie/) - I had root canal a few weeks ago, after intermittent pain that started when I was pregnant with Harry—that’s right, I lived with twinges for five years before I finally did something about it. It would flare up every couple of months, bother me for a day, maybe two, and then just when I’d think,
- [Buy Peko Peko, the Fundraiser Cookbook for Japan](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/06/17/buy-peko-peko-the-fundraiser-cookbook-for-japan/) - Hi all. It’s been quiet around here, I know, and I apologize. I’ve got a pile of delicious things lined up for you, once I find the time to write up some posts (think Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes with White Chocolate Frosting, Make-Your-Own Taco Salad, and Almond Butter-Choco-Banana Smoothies). But in the meanwhile, I’m really excited
- [Help! Parents Need to Eat Too needs a new title](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/06/08/help-parents-need-to-eat-too-needs-a-new-title/) - Yesterday I was at an indoor playspace with Harry and some friends, when my phone rang. I struggled to hear through the ear-piercing shrieks erupting from the kids, but eventually realized it was my editor, calling to say that HarperCollins' sales department thinks my cookbook's title isn't funny/fun enough. I admit, my chapter titles are
- [Tonight's Dinner (Asparagus, Gruyere & Parmesan Tart)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/06/01/tonights-dinner/) - Asparagus, Gruyere and Parmesan Tart from What's Gaby Cooking. Dinnertime can't come fast enough.
- [Magic, 1-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/31/magic-1-ingredient-banana-ice-cream/) - We’re having a bit of a sweets problem around here. I’m pretty sure I emerged from the womb with an obsession for sugary treats (wonder how I got to weigh 260 pounds?) and even with Weight Watchers as a constant in my life, I have yet to conquer it. Instead I aim simply to manage
- [Possibly the Most Versatile Bread Dough Ever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/25/possibly-the-most-versatile-bread-dough-ever/) - Waaay back in the TBS (Time Before Stephen), when I was a marketing exec at a book publisher and dreaming about opening a prepared-foods shop, I took some classes at the Institute of Culinary Education. It seemed like the smart thing to do, to get some actual training in a kitchen, to learn how to
- [The Birth of Parents Need to Eat Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/19/the-birth-of-parents-need-to-eat-too/) - I feel a little narcissistic pointing out an interview with me, but Nona Brooklyn, a very cool site devoted to food in this here boro, did a little Q&A about Parents Need to Eat Too, the class. The title of the piece? "Taming the Madness: Classes to Help New Parents Start Cooking Again." Love it.
- [Father's Day's A-Coming](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/17/fathers-days-a-coming/) - No time to write a full-fledged review (though I plan to next week, after I return from BlogHer Food), but today is the on-sale date for a book I've been enjoying immensely, edited by John Donohue of Stay at Stove Dad. It's called Man with a Pan. Man with a Pan is a collection of
- [I Just Gave Birth, Then Sent the Baby Away](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/16/i-just-gave-birth-then-sent-the-baby-away/) - My hands are shaking.I just hit “send” on an email, which is not normally cause for excitement. But this email was to my book editor, and it contained the final draft of Parents Need to Eat Too. That’s right, my cookbook is written. There will be tweaks, I’m sure, but the actual oh-god-how-shall-I-put-this work is
- [Williamsburg & Greenpoint Readers: Space Still Available in a Cool New CSA](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/15/williamsburg-greenpoint-readers-space-still-available-in-a-cool-new-csa/) - I love the idea of a CSA. That's Community Supported Agriculture, when individuals buy shares in a farm's upcoming harvest. The notion is that you support the farmer financially before the selling season starts, and because you're taking a bit of a risk (farmers never know how that harvest is going to turn out until
- [Newsflash: Bribe Your Kids and They'll Eat Vegetables](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/10/newsflash-bribe-your-kids-and-theyll-eat-vegetables/) - So says a recent study, in which children aged four to six were offered small rewards for eating a vegetable they'd said they didn't like. After three months, when the rewards were no longer being offered, most of those kids still voluntarily ate the vegetable in question. Children who'd received no incentive, for the most
- [New Class Starting May 24 at Caribou Baby: Parents Need to Eat Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/07/new-class-starting-may-24-at-caribou-baby-parents-need-to-eat-too/) - “Until the Culinary Institute welcomes breastfeeding moms and toddler toys into the kitchen, this is the best cooking & camaraderie class you’ll find in the 5 boroughs. It books FAST.” –KidCityNY.com Brooklyn (and NYC) moms and dads, I am beyond thrilled to announce that my cooking class for new parents, Parents Need to Eat Too,
- [Oy, I'm a Socialvore!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/06/oy-im-a-socialvore/) - Oy. Such a good word, right? It pretty much covers everything going on in my life right now: Major book deadline, oy. This past weekend was 100% devoted to the American Society of Journalists & Authors conference (which was well worth it, but oy am I scrambling to make up for the lost time). In
- [Recipe: Lemon Salsa from The Lazy Gourmet](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/05/03/recipe-lemon-salsa-from-the-lazy-gourmet/) - The Lazy Gourmet: Magnificent Meals Made Easyby Robin Donovan & Juliana Gallin isn’t strictly a book for parents. But between you and me and the lamppost, it’s exactly what you need when it’s 6:00 and you haven’t started—or even thought about—dinner yet, when you’re brain-dead and bone-tired and wish that someone would come over and
- [Guest Post: Meagan Francis on Happiness in the Kitchen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/25/guest-post-meagan-francis-on-happiness-in-the-kitchen/) - Yes, I've got two guest posts in a row. Sorry, but I warned you things were going to be a little light around here this month... That blasted cookbook! The good thing about not having time to blog much myself is that I can invite some of my favorite people to do it for me.
- [Zitner’s Butter Krak: Happy (Addictive) Easter!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/23/zitners-butter-krak-happy-addictive-easter/) - Good morning, friends. Tomorrow is Easter, and if you've been reading here longer than, oh, 24 hours, you know it's not my holiday. It is, however, my husband's holiday, and he enjoys every candy-loving second of it. We went to my in-laws' last weekend for a little pre-Easter candy debauchery, just to blow Harry's Jewish
- [Missed the BPA Chat?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/22/missed-the-bpa-chat/) - Lots of good questions were asked & answered on Moms Rising's Facebook page today. Margie Kelly of Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, Connie Engel from the Breast Cancer Fund, and I talked about everything from BPA-free canned tomatoes (they're coming!) to TetraPaks and defrosting in the microwave. If you missed the chat, you'll find the entire
- [Olive Oil-Matzo Granola](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/21/olive-oil-matzo-granola/) - There are about a thousand things I’m supposed to be doing right now, so I’ll keep this short and sweet: Go make this. It’s magic. It transforms dry, musty matzo farfel into something you’ll want to eat until your jaw hurts. Feed it to a person who isn’t forced to eat matzo for a week
- [Tomorrow: Got Questions about BPA in Your Kitchen?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/21/tomorrow-got-questions-about-bpa-in-your-kitchen/) - Tomorrow's Earth Day. Since I became a mom, environmental issues have become exponentially more important to me, both in terms of what goes into our bodies and what we're doing to leave a, y'know, livable world for our children. Wall-e came out when Harry was a baby, and boy did it speak to me (I
- [Just in Time for Passover: All Praise the Potato](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/18/just-in-time-for-passover-all-praise-the-potato/) - Have you heard about this ludicrous bribe-the-bloggers campaign dreamed up by a flack for that famous faux stuffing mix? I won't be using the brand name since I don't want to give them any more publicity, but it's the one you think of when you hear "pre-fab stuffing."Anyway, a food writer friend, Charmian Christie of
- [Hide the Chametz: Passover Recipes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/18/hide-the-chametz-passover-recipes/) - It starts tonight: My favorite Jewish holiday for two or three days, which turns into my least-favorite Jewish holiday around Day Four, when I can't bear the thought of eating another sheet of matzo, and I miss the ease of, I don't know, toast so much I want to cry. Over the years I've written
- [Bits and Pieces](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/12/bits-and-pieces/) - Completely random set of announcements:Next month, I'll be speaking at the BlogHer Food conference, on a panel called "Foodie Mom, Picky Kid." Sound familiar? My co-panelists include Jenny from Picky Palate, Caroline from Devil & Egg, and Cindy from Fix Me a Snack, all blogs I read regularly and commiserate with, seeing as how we're
- [Bear with Me, Please (until January 15, 2012)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/04/05/bear-with-me-please-until-january-15-2012/) - Hello, my friends. You may have noticed that I haven't posted in an entire week; first: OOPS. Second, there's a reason for this: I'm burrowing underground for a little while.You see, I spoke to the lovely, wise, helpful, and kind editor of Parents Need to Eat Too last week. (You may recall, I submitted the
- [Peko Peko: A Charity Cookbook for Japan](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/29/peko-peko-a-charity-cookbook-for-japan/) - For the last few weeks, I've been obsessed with Japan. I wouldn't be surprised if you've been obsessed, too. What happened there is just so mind-boggling; I can't even begin to imagine how I would respond to such a tragedy in my own life. All I know is that for the last few weeks, I've
- [Brunch Recipe: Zucchini-Gruyere Tart](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/28/brunch-recipe-zucchini-gruyere-tart/) - Ever since our dear, dear child was born, Stephen and I don’t entertain as much as we might like. There’s the boy’s birthday party, of course, and the cooking I do for my in-laws’ various celebrations, and one very casual Thanksgiving, but other than that it’s usually a last-minute, hey-why-don’t-you-stay-for-dinner kind of thing. No planning,
- [Please Help Elisa and Nathan](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/25/please-help-elisa-and-nathan/) - I'm not sure I can type this without crying, just from the thought of this happening to someone, anyone.Elisa and Nathan are the parents of an adorable 18-month-old named Sadie. Like me, they live in Brooklyn, though I don't know them. I do know a friend of Elisa's, but even with 100 more degrees of
- [Quick & Easy: Chicken Lo Mein](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/24/quick-easy-chicken-lo-mein/) - Is there anything more satisfying than a noodle dish? Think about it: pasta with rich meat sauce or hearty mushrooms, egg noodles topped with smothered chicken or tender brisket, spaetzle all by itself. The only problem is, most of those require a considerable amount of time, for sauces to simmer and for dried noodles to
- [Trader Joe's Triple Berry-NOs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/23/trader-joes-triple-berry-nos/) - Does that bowl match the packaging? Serious fail here, TJ's. You know I love you, so much that if you were a publicly held company I'd buy stock, but this is a major disappointment. A little back-story: Harry's been driving us bananas lately, insisting he no longer likes foods that were among his favorites just
- [Chopsticks: Easier Than They Look](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/23/chopsticks-easier-than-they-look/) - All it takes is a rubber band at the top, and even a four-year-old can swing a pair. Sorta. Until he decides it's easier to just eat with his hands... (Note that he's attacking a bowl of plain noodles, while next to him is an apparently not-at-all-tempting bowl of delicious homemade Chicken Lo Mein, the
- [Bribery, Phase II: With a Recipe for Quick Pasta with Browned Butter, Corn & Almonds](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/21/bribery-phase-ii-with-a-recipe-for-quick-pasta-with-browned-butter-corn-almonds/) - The bribery—excuse me, encouragement via promise of reward—continues anew. Three weeks after our initial breakthrough, when Harry ate a new vegetable every day for fourteen straight days, he continues to try unfamiliar vegs without (much) complaint. But here’s the thing I’m most proud of: He’ll now eat cucumber, carrots, or sugar snap peas for a
- [Wherefore Art Thou, Hamantaschen Recipe of My Dreams?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/18/wherefore-art-thou-hamantaschen-recipe-of-my-dreams/) - You may recall that last year around this time, my hamantaschen melted. This year's recipe was an improvement on that sorry experience, but it's the first time I've ever used the word "infuriating" to describe cookie dough. I thought this would be a fun project to do with Harry, rolling and filling and whatnot, but
- [Newsflash](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/15/newsflash/) - Harry likes sugar snap peas. Like, really likes them. Ate one after another last night at dinner, and demolished the supply I sent in his lunchbox today.I just had to tell someone. I can't believe my evil plan is working. And we didn't even start a new chart; this is residual amiability towards vegetables.
- [Food Swap in the New York Times!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/13/food-swap-in-the-new-york-times/) - My take Two weekends ago, I attended a fabulous event known as BK Swappers, in which all the participants bring food to swap, everything from preserves to infused booze, peanutella to margarita cookies. And I wrote about it for the New York Times. It's in tomorrow's paper. Some of the impressive and inspiring stuff on
- [Sigh.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/11/sigh/) - Last night provided the big rain storm we'd been hoping for, to test our fix-it man's assertion that the ridonculous number of leaks in our kitchen had been fully sealed. Yeah, not so much. It started out promisingly enough, with no leakage all throughout the day. But that was just garden-variety rain. Once the deluge
- [(Almost) Wordless Wednesday: Leak](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/09/almost-wordless-wednesday-leak/) - My currently-inaccessible cookbook collection The wall on which my cookbook collection was nearly drowned. Water was running down the wall and spraying from the ceiling light fixture. I could've taken a shower under it, had I wanted to bathe in rusty brown liquid The kitchen table, buried under flotsam & jetsam moved from other leaky
- [Procrastinate All You Want... (Fast White Beans & Greens Stew)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/07/procrastinate-all-you-want/) - ...because tonight's dinner is taken care of! Check out my guest post over on One Hungry Mama, one of my favorite, favorite, favorite mom-oriented food blogs. Fast White Beans and Greens Stew is ready in as little as 20 minutes. No, I'm not kidding. Leaves you plenty of time to make Samoa Bars, and that
- [Samoa Cookie Bars](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/06/samoa-cookie-bars/) - A long, long time ago, waaaaay back in the early days of Words to Eat By, I made homemade Samoas, everybody's favorite Girl Scout cookie. Now, I’m not going to swear that I was the first food blogger to do this, but, well. Ahem. Anyhoosie, I first made them six years ago. And I haven’t
- [I feel dirty.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/04/i-feel-dirty/) - I get all squicky when I ask for favors. Especially from you. But Babble, a major parenting site, announced their top 100 mom food bloggers this week and I didn't make the cut (can you believe it?). One of you lovely people nominated me as a reader favorite (thank you thank you thank you!), and
- [I Bribed—Excuse Me, Encouraged Via the Promise of Reward—My Child to Eat Vegetables](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/03/02/i-bribed-excuse-me-encouraged-via-the-promise-of-reward-my-child-to-eat-vegetables/) - It’s true. Harry ate vegetables. For fourteen straight days. Do you understand how momentous this is? The kid’s been so challenging to feed for so long, I actually got paid to write about it. And yet for a full two weeks, he was willing to try a new vegetable nearly every day. He ate celery.
- [A Momentous Morning](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/28/a-momentous-morning/) - I just sent the final chapter of Parents Need to Eat Too off to my editor. It's written specifically for all you WOHMs out there (and if you don't know what that acronym means, it's probably not for you).The first official announcement of the cookbook was a year ago this month. My friends, this has
- [In Praise of Processed Foods](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/25/in-praise-of-processed-foods/) - Last night’s dinner I’ll let you in on a little secret: Sometimes, I use processed foods. Pretty much every day, in fact. Are you aghast? Well, don’t be. While the words “processed food” have become a dietary bugaboo, it’s just the teeniest bit misleading. When we talk about the problems Americans face with obesity, diabetes,
- [Nutty Chocolate-Cherry Granola](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/23/nutty-chocolate-cherry-granola/) - Olive Oil Granola is kind of a thing, have you heard? Melissa Clark started it, I think, in the New York Times (inspired by the one sold by Bklyn Larder—the very same people behind Franny’s), and soon after The Kitchn raved about the recipe. More recently Jenny at Dinner: A Love Story wrote about it.
- [Caramel So Easy, Even a Parent Can Make It](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/21/caramel-so-easy-even-a-parent-can-make-it/) - Caramel and I have a history, and it ain’t a good one. Catastrophic is more like it. I’m not a candy-maker, in fact even after the aforementioned debacles I still haven’t acquired a candy thermometer. I figure it’ll be used so infrequently, why bother? Well, thank heaven for Cooks Illustrated, is all I can say.
- [Ohdeedoh](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/20/ohdeedoh/) - Just in case you missed it, Ohdeedoh, the parenting website from the folks at Apartment Therapy, ran an interview with me the other day. It's worth a read, especially if you're interested in that time I... And if you're here via Ohdeedoh, welcome! I hope you'll find stuff to your liking. If you do, there's
- [Taking Green to a Whole New Level](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/18/taking-green-to-a-whole-new-level/) - Harry loves the color green. Actually, “love” might be too gentle a word; “obsessed” is probably a better choice. From the very first time he was asked his favorite color, the answer’s been the same. For a while there, it was all he wanted to talk about—at his old preschool, the other kids’ parents would
- [Mediterranean Fish en Papillote](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/15/mediterranean-fish-en-papillote/) - Don’t be fooled by the fancy-shmancy French up there: This is about as easy—and parent-friendly—as cooking gets. It’s so simple, I'll toss a packet together for lunch on a weekday. And it's so tasty even Stephen-the-fish-hater devours it. Seriously, if you can assemble, you can (and should) make this. “En Papillote” means you’re cooking in
- [Eight Years Ago This Very Minute...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/13/eight-years-ago-this-very-minute/) - ...the man I would someday marry sat next to me at Tavern on Jane. I was expecting him—we’d met online, and I’d learned from years of trying that it was wise to get the first in-person meeting out of the way quickly, the better to find out sooner that we really weren’t suited to each
- [I Gave Him My Heart (now give me a pen)*](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/11/i-gave-him-my-heart-now-give-me-a-pen/) - I’m not gonna lie: These Chocolate Whole Wheat Sandwich Cookies with Raspberry Filling are a production. It took me the better part of an afternoon to make them—the dough chills for a few hours before rolling, cutting, and baking, and then there’s the post-bake cool, the post-decorating rest, and the final sandwich-making. But oh my,
- [A Mom's Take on the New Dietary Guidelines](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/10/a-moms-take-on-the-new-dietary-guidelines/) - After the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans were released last week, Parents.com asked me what I thought of our government's advice. Here's what I told them. What was your reaction to the guidelines?
- [Guest Post: Decluttering Your Refrigerator and Freezer](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/08/guest-post-decluttering-your-refrigerator-and-freezer/) - Leah Ingram is one of my writer idols. She's written more than a dozen books, and if you've read a magazine in the last decade I can pretty much guarantee you've seen her byline. Suddenly Frugal, her blog (and book), is devoted to living well on as little money as possible. Seriously, this woman knows
- [Vegetable Barley Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/07/vegetable-barley-soup/) - Yup, more soup. The other day I mentioned that I’d used the leftover White Beans with Sage to make a vegetable-pasta-bean soup (the last of which I had for lunch today). Not long before that was Overnight French Onion Soup, and during this ridiculously snowbound winter I’ve been revisiting many of the highlights of Soup
- [White Beans with Sage](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/03/white-beans-with-sage/) - What did we eat with our insanely good Herbed Flatbread? Why, White Beans with Sage, of course! So satisfying in this stupid (as Harry would call it—everything is “stupid” these days, unless it’s “poopy”) weather. Silky, velvety, smooth… scooping them up with torn pieces of flatbread is just the thing to do when it’s too
- [Herbed Flatbread from Good to the Grain](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/02/02/herbed-flatbread-from-good-to-the-grain/) - If you read a lot of food blogs, I’m going to guess you’ve heard about Kim Boyce’s cookbook Good to the Grain: Baking with Whole-Grain Flours. It won Food52’s Piglet—their annual cookbook competition. Deb at Smitten Kitchen has blogged about it multiple times. Molly’s post about the Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies was almost enough
- [Browned Butter & Sage Sauce: Dinner in Minutes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/31/browned-butter-sage-sauce-dinner-in-minutes/) - There are some days when I just can’t face cooking yet another dinner. I. Just. Can’t. But we’re broker than broke, and my occasional habit of ignoring food until it spoils doesn’t help. Ordering in? Almost never happens. And we’ve got to eat, so… Into the kitchen I trudge. That’s when I’m glad I keep
- [I admit, sometimes this is me.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/31/i-admit-sometimes-this-is-me/) - courtesy xkcd In my case, though, it's usually more of a week-long thing, rather than months-long. A little later today, I'll post a recipe that's the perfect cure for this feeling; it's super-easy (like, super-super-easy) and lick-the-plate delicious. Do you ever get like this? What do you do about it?
- [And the Winner Is](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/29/and-the-winner-is/) - The winner of a signed copy of Alisa Bowman's Project: Happily Ever After is...Commenter #1, Toni!Congratulations, Toni. Your comment didn't provide a way for me to reach you, so please email me with your mailing address.
- [Dorie Greenspan’s Maple-Cornmeal Biscuits](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/27/dorie-greenspans-maple-cornmeal-biscuits/) - Snow day. Again. Seriously, God, don’t you think it’s time to ease up? I know it’s selfish of me to put it in these terms, but this is seriously messing with my life. I work at home. Having a rambunctious four-year-old around, adorable as he is, does not make for very good working conditions. The
- [For the Love of Ziti](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/26/for-the-love-of-ziti/) - It’s time for a guest post, my friends. I don’t get to read for pleasure very much. You probably don’t know this about me since all I ever talk about here is food, but I still do quite a bit of copywriting for my old book publishing colleagues. A big part of my business is
- [Emergency Peanut Butter Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/23/emergency-peanut-butter-cookies/) - It’s Saturday night, and I had a cookie emergency. By that, I mean that I’m at home on a Saturday night—what else is new—and I.need.cookies. But other than the bag of chocolate goldfish we use to tempt Harry from the playground, we’re plum out of them. And it’s, like, one degree outside. Or something. So
- [Attention, Williamsburg Parents: Adorable Japanese Foodstuff, Now at Midoriya](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/21/attention-williamsburg-parents-adorable-japanese-foodstuff-now-at-midoriya/) - I went for a walk today. This is news, somewhat, since lately it feels like I hardly ever leave our apartment. Ahh, the glamorous life of a writer... Anyhoosie. I went for a walk. And found a pleasant surprise (in addition to the stop at Bakeri, where I purchased a chocolate chip/hazelnut/rosemary cookie that was...interesting,
- [Kale Salad with Browned Butter-Sherry Vinaigrette](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/19/kale-salad-with-browned-butter-sherry-vinaigrette/) - I’ll admit: When I first saw the words “kale” and “salad” together, my brain did not immediately translate that into “delicious.” In fact, my brain ran in the opposite direction, cowering under the delicate-but-bland baby spinach that’s always in the crisper. Stupid brain. Turns out kale salad is a wintertime revelation, much more filling than
- [Butternut Pizza & Zucchini Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/17/butternut-pizza-zucchini-pizza/) - Here’s a pair of pizzas that aren’t exactly pizza-pizzas, if you know what I mean. Oh, you don’t? Well, neither one has sauce, or any kind of tomato product. Or mozzarella. Or anything particularly Italian, except for some Parmesan cheese. What is on them is a pair of veg-focused, refreshingly light, sophisticated flavor combinations. They're
- [Overnight French Onion Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/14/overnight-french-onion-soup/) - When I was a kid, I haaaated cheese.* Just walking near the cheese display at the supermarket made me gag. It wasn’t until I grew up that I discovered the wonder that is French onion soup. Once my eyes were opened, I’d order the soup almost any time it appeared on a menu—mostly for those
- [Meet Weight Watchers' Newest Columnist](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/12/meet-weight-watchers-newest-columnist/) - About a month ago, I casually dropped into a post the news that I'd landed a gig writing a column. I didn't give details, because until I saw the darn thing in print I was afraid to jinx things. (I know, that's insane, especially since I've already written the first three.) But the mail just
- [Linkety Split: Kick off 2011 Edition](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/11/linkety-split-kick-off-2011-edition/) - My links roundups, they are few and far between. But I like to think they're worth waiting for.Cakespy (aka Jessie Oleson) is writing a cookbook! I'm doing a little happy dance over here. It's embarrassing.While discussing Pepsi's new fruit-like substance, Tropolis, Marion Nestle asks a really smart question, one I wish more parents would ask
- [Short & Oh So Sweet: Strawberry Frosting](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/10/short-oh-so-sweet-strawberry-frosting/) - This one’s so quick, so easy, so pretty, and so bang-for-the-buck delicious that I’m not even going to write up a big fancy post about it. Turns out it’s amazingly simple to make fruity frosting with very little extra effort, whatever flavor you’d like to make—just so long as you can find that flavor in
- [Looking for Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/09/looking-for-slow-cooker-beef-short-ribs/) - Just noticed a surge of traffic to the site, all seeking a short ribs recipe to make in the slow cooker. Look no further, folks. The best one you'll ever find is right here. Bonus: It's so easy, you'll have it slow-cooking away about twenty minutes from now. Which gives you time to whip up
- [Meyer Lemon Pasta](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/05/meyer-lemon-pasta/) - I asked; you answered. Yesterday on Words to Eat By’s Facebook page, I listed a handful of recipes* and asked which you’d like to hear about next. The clear winner: Meyer Lemon Pasta. Without a word of description, it makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? This’ll be the third post in which I’ve mentioned my
- [New Year, New Feature: Make Baby Food](https://debbiekoenig.com/2011/01/04/new-year-new-feature-make-baby-food/) - I just had one of those moments. You know the type—like at the end of a formulaic rom-com, when the girl suddenly realizes that Mr. Right was hers for the taking for the last 90+ minutes? It occurred to me that I’ve been denying you a pretty cool aspect of my recipes. In fact, if
- [A Year in Failures](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/31/a-year-in-failures/) - I like to think I’m pretty up-front with you guys. When something doesn’t work, I admit it—especially on WTEB’s Facebook page, where I’ll often talk about current experiments. Many turn into blog posts, but more than a few end so miserably I can’t possibly inflict the recipe upon you. Instead, here’s a roundup of a
- [New Year’s Eve Nibbles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/28/new-years-eve-nibbles/) - Assuming Harry ever finishes digging us out, there’s a chance we’ll actually be celebrating New Year’s Eve this year—even before the boy came along, neither Stephen nor I were terribly into the whole concept. But we’ve got friends with a daughter Harry’s age who just moved back into the area, so we thought it might
- [Bonbons in a Blizzard](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/27/bonbons-in-a-blizzard/) - I am in so much trouble. For my birthday, Stephen took me to dinner at Franny’s*. They don’t take reservations, so while we waited for a table we sat at the bar, chatting. And since it was my birthday and all, we talked about my favorite thing: food. I can’t remember how it came up,
- [Chocolate-Almond Spritz Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/24/chocolate-almond-spritz-cookies/) - These lightly sweet, crumbly little cookies were our holiday gift for Harry’s teachers—they’re spritz cookies, the kind you make with a cookie press (mine is by Kuhn Rikon). Spritz are terrific to make with little kids—who doesn’t love a gadget that shoots cookie dough? I held the press down against the baking sheet, and Harry
- [Couscous with Merguez, Fennel, and Golden Raisins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/15/couscous-with-merguez-fennel-and-golden-raisins/) - So, we’re kinda broke. I know, I know, I just said the other day that I had a pretty good year as a writer—and I did, as far as my career goes. But here’s the thing nobody mentions when you sign up to write a cookbook: Once you get past the thrill of “ohmygodsomebodywantstopublishMYcookbook!” you
- [When Does That Whole Meticulously-Decorated Thing Kick In?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/14/when-does-that-whole-meticulously-decorated-thing-kick-in/) - Four-year-olds, it seems, aren't much more interested in precision than two-year-olds. I don't think they minded.
- [Calling All New(ish) WOHMs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/08/calling-all-newish-wohms/) - So. The cookbook. Amazingly enough, I’m working on the last chapter of Parents Need to Eat Too (woot!). It’s called “Lunchtime Pumping & Last-Minute Dinners: Recipes for WOHMs.” (If you’re a WOHM I’m pretty sure you’ll recognize that acronym, but just in case: Work Outside the Home Mom.) I work, but from an oh-so-luxurious home
- [Quick & Easy Edible Gift: Sweet & Five-Spicy Almonds](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/07/quick-easy-edible-gift-sweet-five-spicy-almonds/) - Cute, no? I’ve had a pretty good year as a writer—the cookbook, of course, and steady work from several clients. Even a columnist gig, which I’ll announce in January when the first installment appears! So I decided, spur-of-the-moment-like, to send a little holiday cheer to some of my favorite editors. At first I thought I’d
- [Got a picky—make that discerning—eater?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/06/got-a-picky-make-that-discerning-eater/) - An essay I wrote about my adorable child and his extremely sophisticated palate (so sophisticated that he can tell just by looking whether or not he'll like something, and you can guess how that usually goes) has gone up on Parents.com. And Melanie Rehak, author of Eating for Beginners, wrote a blog post of her
- [Help Me with My Cookbook's Cover!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/03/help-me-with-my-cookbooks-cover-2/) - It’s been a while since I talked about Parents Need to Eat Too, probably because I’ve been so busy coming up with recipes, coordinating recipe testing with my amazing (and huge) crew of mom-testers, and, y’know, writing it. But this week I’m finally starting to believe this is real (I know, it’s been real for
- [Help Me with My Cookbook's Cover!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/03/help-me-with-my-cookbooks-cover/) - It’s been a while since I talked about Parents Need to Eat Too, probably because I’ve been so busy coming up with recipes, coordinating recipe testing with my amazing (and huge) crew of mom-testers, and, y’know, writing it. But this week I’m finally starting to believe this is real (I know, it’s been real for
- [Less-Oil Latkes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/02/less-oil-latkes/) - Delicate. Crisp outside. Meltingly soft inside. Very, very satisfying. My friends, I do believe I have solved the Great Hanukkah Dilemma, one faced by healthy eaters everywhere: I made fantastic latkes that pay homage to the Hanukkah story—they get a brief sizzle in oil—without becoming heavy bombs of fat. (Not that there’s anything wrong with
- [We Have a Winner! Anomia Edition](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/12/01/we-have-a-winner-anomia-edition/) - And its... JESSE! The 8th commenter, selected by random.org. Just in time for Hanukkah! Jesse: you didn't leave any contact info, so please email me your mailing address via the "contact" tab at the top right. Congratulations, and enjoy! And big thanks to all who entered.
- [Pasta with Spiced Butternut Squash and Almonds (Weight Watchers PointsPlus)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/30/pasta-with-spiced-butternut-squash-and-almonds-weight-watchers-pointsplus/) - Yesterday, my world turned upside-down. Just a bit, and only insofar as eating is concerned—but hey, in my life at least, that’s pretty major. Yesterday, Weight Watchers introduced PointsPlus. After more than a decade of the Points system, they’ve changed the program. It’s very much in line with what I wrote two weeks ago: fruits
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Anomia Giveaway!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/26/holiday-goodies-week-anomia-giveaway/) - Holy cow, you guys, this has to be one of the posts I was most looking forward to writing, and it's the last post of Holiday Goodies Week to boot, but I’ve run out of time! It's Wednesday morning as I write this; we’re heading out the door for my in-laws’ and I need to
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Book Darts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/26/holiday-goodies-week-book-darts/) - Today’s second find is for book lovers—and in particular, the folks like me who read cookbooks for fun, and then find that they want to try one recipe after another but to dogear every page would trash the book… Enter Book Darts. These ingenious little metal markers hold your place without marring your book’s pages.
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Shirts That Go](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/26/holiday-goodies-week-shirts-that-go/) - This here is one vehicle-loving kid. Note that he's holding trains while wearing a fire truck, and behind him are a crane, a dump truck, a helicopter, and a full-fledged fire station. Today is the last day of Holiday Goodies Week. Awwww. I’ve had a blast introducing you to some of my favorite small-scale companies
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Dragonfly Sugarworks](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/25/holiday-goodies-week-dragonfly-sugarworks/) - First, happy Thanksgiving! I know it’s called “Holiday Goodies Week,” but it doesn’t actually stop for holidays. I hope you’re having a fantastic day filled with good food and even better spirits. (And if you’re a little nervous about overindulging, here are some tips on how to enjoy the day without bursting out of your
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Oh Nuts!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/24/holiday-goodies-week-oh-nuts/) - Are you enjoying Holiday Goodies Week? I sure am! I feel like Oprah, except without, y'know, 2012 Volkswagen Beetles. This afternoon’s offer is another nutty one, but this time instead of a discount code there’s a giveaway attached. Read on… Nearly two years ago, Oh Nuts contacted me to see if I’d like to try
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Yumnuts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/24/holiday-goodies-week-yumnuts/) - Sometimes on a Sunday, Stephen and I run out of activity ideas. We can’t bear the thought of hitting the playground yet again, but spending the entire day within the confines of our apartment with a four-year-old Tasmanian Devil isn’t terribly appealing, either. A hot dog road trip, tempting as it is, isn’t exactly Weight
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Wobbly Plates](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/23/holiday-goodies-week-wobbly-plates/) - I can’t remember the last time I was this excited to write a post. Not because I’m tired of blogging—far from it. It’s because today I get to introduce you to my new favorite stoneware, Wobbly Plates by Brigitte Bouquet. Wobbly Plates are brilliantly colorful, off-kilter, snowflake-individual works of functional art. (Try saying that mouthful
- [Holiday Goodies Week: Baked & Bottled](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/22/holiday-goodies-week-baked-bottled/) - I promised you an exciting week, didn't I? A week filled with finds, exclusive offers, discounts, and giveaways, every single one of them terrific for busy parents (and, come to think of it, nearly anyone else)? Well, let's get started. First up, Baked & Bottled. A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to attend
- [Starting Monday: Holiday Goodies Week!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/19/starting-monday-holiday-goodies-week/) - Last week was Soup Week here at Words to Eat By. I must be digging this whole theme-y thing, because next week I’ve got a whole new leitmotif: stuff to buy for the holidays. Fun stuff, unique stuff, groovy stuff, yummy stuff, a new find every day (even on Thanksgiving!). It might be something to
- [How to Enjoy Thanksgiving Without Blowing Your Diet](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/18/how-to-enjoy-thanksgiving-without-blowing-your-diet/) - America’s official Day of Gluttony isn’t easy to navigate when you’re trying to lose a few. But during the three years it took me to lose 100 pounds, not to mention the first half-decade of maintaining that loss, I learned a thing or two. Today, I’m going to share some of my secrets with you—and
- [Warm Delicata Squash & Israeli Couscous Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/17/warm-delicata-squash-israeli-couscous-salad/) - One of my favorite things about being a food writer—aside from the eating, of course—is that I get paid to research and write about foods I might never have tried otherwise. Such is the case with delicata squash. I’d seen it on restaurant menus and in food magazines, but until I sat down to work
- [Big Changes Coming to Weight Watchers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/16/big-changes-coming-to-weight-watchers/) - Sound the alarms: On November 29, Weight Watchers is unveiling a new program. From what I've read, ProPoints (as it's called in the UK, and possibly here) will still be points-based, but fruits and vegetables are free. Which must mean they're adjusting the points values of everything else as well; word on the street is
- [Soup Week 2010: A Handy Dandy List of Soupy Goodness](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/12/soup-week-2010-a-handy-dandy-list-of-soupy-goodness/) - Sad but true, Soup Week 2010 is over. I don’t know about you, but I’m nearly souped out. Just in case all these meals-in-a-bowl have left you pining for more, here’s a rundown of all the soups I’ve posted on Words to Eat By, plus a bunch of good-looking recipes from other sites. It’s a
- [Soup Week 2010: A Duo with Greens and Grains](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/12/soup-week-2010-a-duo-with-greens-and-grains/) - To wind up Soup Week 2010, I thought I’d give you a little something extra: Two Italian recipes in one post. Both pair greens, so abundant this time of year, with grains, but with quite different results. The first is, well, minimalist—which makes sense, since it’s my adaptation of a recipe from Mark Bittman’s “Minimalist”
- [Soup Week 2010: Sopa de Ajo](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/11/soup-week-2010-sopa-de-ajo/) - A soupy trip to Asia and the Subcontinent gave way to something vaguely Middle Eastern. Today, let's head a little further west, for a guest post from Danielle of Good. Food. Stories. Don’t miss a single recipe from Soup Week: subscribe to Words to Eat By, either in a reader or your in-box. Garlic soup
- [Soup Week 2010: Tomato Bulgur Soup with Crunchy Five-Spice Cauliflower](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/10/soup-week-2010-tomato-bulgur-soup-with-crunchy-five-spice-cauliflower/) - Bulgur is one of those tricky ingredients—not because it’s difficult to use; far from it. More because, for me at least, it’s just a little offbeat. It’s not part of my everyday repertoire. The Recipe Index of this blog is proof of that: in six years, I’ve only discussed one recipe that calls for it.
- [Soup Week 2010: Lamb Curry Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/09/soup-week-2010-lamb-curry-soup/) - We started Soup Week in Asia. Today my friend Stephanie Stiavetti takes us to the Subcontinent, for a soup filled with vegetables, spices, and ingenious little meatballs. Take it away, Stephanie... Don’t miss a single recipe from Soup Week: subscribe to Words to Eat By, either in a reader or your in-box. I love soup,
- [Soup Week 2010: Quick Asian Noodle Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/08/soup-week-2010-quick-asian-noodle-soup/) - Can you feel that buzz in the air? An unlikely combination of excitement and warm, soothing comfort? It can mean only one thing: Soup Week has begun! Every day this week, I’ll be posting a new soup recipe for you. Along the way we’ll hit Asia and its subcontinent, Italy, Spain, and the Middle East.
- [Baked Apple French Toast](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/06/baked-apple-french-toast/) - A writer friend of mine blogged about baked French toast the other day—she wasn’t thrilled with the recipe—and it got me thinking about the amazing Overnight Baked Panettone French Toast I’d made for a Christmas brunch last year. Sweet baby Jesus in a chicken basket*, that was good. But not terribly Weight Watchers-friendly, plus we’re
- [Halloween 2010](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/11/01/halloween-2010/) - By 6PM, all that remained were five sucking candies and a packet of Looney Tunes gummies.
- [Royal Icing for Absolute Beginners](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/29/royal-icing-for-absolute-beginners/) - Since becoming a mom, I’ve learned so many things: How to change a diaper on a squirmy, slippery infant. How to change a diaper on a standing-up (or running-away) toddler. How to persuade a preschooler to share the 1000 stickers he’s hoarding. Seriously important stuff, but for the most part I don’t write about it
- [I Finally Updated the Recipe Index](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/27/i-finally-updated-the-recipe-index/) - A whole year's worth of recipes, added in one go. Note to self: Don't let that wait a whole year next time.
- [A Cake for the Non-Baker: Pear Snickerdoodle Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/26/a-cake-for-the-non-baker-pear-snickerdoodle-cake/) - In 1972, my baby brother was born. That’s right, I said my baby brother, as in “he’s younger than me by quite a few years.” Fine. Do you know what else was born in 1972, and weighed nearly as much as that gurgling infant? James Beard’s American Cookery. This glorious doorstop of a cookbook includes
- [Blogaversary #6: Enter the Words to Eat By Trivia Game & Win!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/25/blogaversary-6-enter-the-words-to-eat-by-trivia-game-win/) - Can you believe it? Six years ago today, this little blog was born. When I realized it this morning, I asked the blog’s Facebook fans (and that includes you, no?) for suggestions on how to celebrate. Several of them had the same idea: with The Best Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies in the Entire World! Yes,
- [Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/22/chocolate-chocolate-chip-cookies/) - It’s bad that I ate four of these for lunch, right? Well, yes and no. It’s bad in the sense that it’s always a bad idea to eat nothing but cookies for lunch. But thanks to a pair of extenuating circumstances, I’m OK with it. First, I actually had a healthy lunch ready to go,
- [Gnocchi with Zucchini, Tomato, and Lemon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/19/gnocchi-with-zucchini-tomato-and-lemon/) - I’ve never been what you’d call a summer person. Sure, as a fat kid I anticipated its arrival with glee—no school! summer camp!—but then would come the painful heat rash, the chub rub of my too-fat thighs, the taunts of the other kids when I’d show up in a bathing suit. In the pool I
- [Linkety Split: Facebook Fans Edition](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/10/13/linkety-split-facebook-fans-edition/) - There are so many reasons to become a Facebook fan of Words to Eat By: The chitchat, the sneak peeks at upcoming posts, the chance to get recipes from the cookbook before my editor sees them...Even if you're already a fan, you may not have noticed the nice little blogroll-type thingy happening on the Discussions
- [Pan-Roasted Cod](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/29/pan-roasted-cod/) - Cod was a bad idea. Not because it didn’t turn out well—it was gorgeous, clean and sweet and bright and simple. But because Samuel kitty wound up eating most of it. Let me backtrack. It was Saturday, farmers’ market day in our neighborhood, and that very morning I’d hit my Weight Watchers goal (which, hooray,
- [NYC Cooking Classes for Kids](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/27/nyc-cooking-classes-for-kids/) - If you're a parent with a budding Julia Child/Ina Garten/Daniel Humm/David Chang, check out my piece in the October Time Out New York Kids. You might be surprised at just how many different places offer cooking classes for kids in our little city.
- [Farro Pasta with Corn, Cherry Tomatoes, and Toasted Garlic](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/20/farro-pasta-with-corn-cherry-tomatoes-and-toasted-garlic/) - ‘Member how I picked up some buckwheat flour at the farmers’ market? Well, at this weekend’s market I discovered that the same vendor now carries freshly made whole-grain pastas. The buckwheat soba was sold out by the time I arrived, but what was still available intrigued me even more: farro fettuccine. I added it to
- [Freezer Organization on Blogher](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/18/freezer-organization-on-blogher/) - Popping in with a quick note: My post on organizing your freezer is on Blogher today!
- [What I Ate at the Greenbrier Symposium for Professional Food Writers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/17/what-i-ate-at-the-greenbrier-symposium-for-professional-food-writers/) - I'm on Weight Watchers, and I gotta say, the food at the Greenbrier would’ve made Jean Nidetch spin in her grave. Not that it wasn’t good, mind you—can’t say I hated anything I tasted, though I definitely enjoyed some dishes more than others—but the endless parade of cream-, cheese-, mayo-, and deep fryer-based dishes was
- [Off to the Greenbrier](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/12/off-to-the-greenbrier/) - In a few hours I’ll be getting on a plane, headed for the five-day Greenbrier Symposium for Professional Food Writers. This is significant for a few reasons:Although in my corporate life I flew four or five times a year and considered myself a packing and airport-navigating pro, since I left that life in 2002 I’ve
- [Today’s Lesson: Always Read Nutrition Facts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/09/todays-lesson-always-read-nutrition-facts/) - Sometimes, even a healthy food isn’t so healthy. Take, for example, the package of bison hot dogs I received recently for review. Bison, I know, is an incredibly healthy meat, especially when compared to beef: it’s lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol. So surely hot dogs made from bison would be similarly impressive, right?* Eh,
- [L'Shana Tova, Everyone](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/08/lshana-tova-everyone-2/)
- [L'Shana Tova, Everyone](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/08/lshana-tova-everyone-2-2/)
- [Rosh Hashanah Baking](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/08/rosh-hashanah-baking/) - Just a quickie, to wish you all L'Shana Tova and point out a couple of terrific recipes, both of which are scheduled for a (possibly overly ambitious) session of Baking With Harry:Patricia's Awesome Apple Cake. Seriously, the best apple cake you'll ever try.Challah. We'll be kneading in 3/4 cup of golden raisins just before forming
- [Quick Pasta with Escarole & White Beans](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/07/quick-pasta-with-escarole-white-beans/) - This month I’m testing recipes for the galactagogues chapter of Parents Need to Eat Too. I see you scratching your head—either you were never a breastfeeding mom with supply problems, or you’ve blissfully erased that episode from your memory. A galactagogue is something that stimulates or promotes the production of breastmilk—if you’re unlucky enough (as
- [Lemon-Oregano Chicken](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/09/03/lemon-oregano-chicken/) - My friends, I owe you a recipe. Luckily I happen to have a good one, one that’s worth sharing, one that works for both Nap-Time Cooking and Big Batch Cooking. Today I made dinner to bring to a family we know, a preschool friend of Harry’s with a brand-spankin’-new baby. (Given my whole Parents Need
- [A Fire Truck Cake for a Four-Year-Old](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/30/a-fire-truck-cake-for-a-four-year-old/) - For Harry's birthday last year, I discovered that fondant is no fundant. This year I discovered that it's ridiculously difficult to make red frosting. I knew Harry was going to ask for a fire truck cake. He's been obsessed with them for the last few months. I also knew something Diego would be required; Harry
- [Weight Watchers Update](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/24/weight-watchers-update/) - Before: April 10, 2010 After: August 23, 2010 Stephen hit goal last week! He's lost an astonishing 40 pounds in 4 months. Honestly, I didn't even realize he had that much to lose. My husband's a hottie, folks. As for me, I'm down 24 pounds. Nothing to sneeze at, right? I'm not quite at goal,
- [Georgie Tedone Has Retired.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/20/georgie-tedone-has-retired/) - Why is this news? Because for the last, oh, 70 years she's been making mozzarella in the wee hours, every day but Sunday, to sell in her family's Williamsburg latticini. And on Saturdays, lordy on Saturdays, the roast beef... I interviewed Georgie as part of an old-school Italian eating tour of Williamsburg I did for
- [Moms Rising & The New Mom's Pantry](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/19/moms-rising-the-new-moms-pantry-2/) - Quickie time, just to tell you that my latest blog post is up at MomsRising.org: The New Mom's Pantry. What are your favorite pantry items? Let me know there, or here!
- [Moms Rising & The New Mom's Pantry](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/19/moms-rising-the-new-moms-pantry/) - Quickie time, just to tell you that my latest blog post is up at MomsRising.org: The New Mom's Pantry. What are your favorite pantry items? Let me know there, or here!
- [Broccoli con Queso: Cooking with Junior](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/17/broccoli-con-queso-cooking-with-junior/) - If you haven’t picked up on my subtle hints, my child has been blessed with a, let’s say, discerning palate. (And by “discerning,” I mean that his list of Won’t Eats is approximately 638 times as long as the list of Will Eats.) This has been going on for close to two years now: I
- [Balsamic-Herb Bison Steak](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/16/balsamic-herb-bison-steak/) - Whoa. That is some good bison. The ribeyes, I mean—holy cow. Tender does not begin to describe it. Pretty much as soon as I unpacked the box last week, I knew the ribeyes would be that night’s dinner—I plunked the pair of vacuum-packed beauties into a pot of cold water for a fast defrost, and
- [I'm Blogging for Moms Rising!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/12/im-blogging-for-moms-rising/) - I'm absolutely thrilled to make this announcement...Moms Rising, an organization of 1,000,000+ moms who care about healthcare, politics, nutrition, the work-life balance, and, oh, every other issue that we deal with in daily life, invited me to join their roster of bloggers. This morning, my first post went live. If you're a regular reader here,
- [I'm Blogging for Moms Rising!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/12/im-blogging-for-moms-rising-2/) - I'm absolutely thrilled to make this announcement...Moms Rising, an organization of 1,000,000+ moms who care about healthcare, politics, nutrition, the work-life balance, and, oh, every other issue that we deal with in daily life, invited me to join their roster of bloggers. This morning, my first post went live. If you're a regular reader here,
- [High Plains Bison: It’s What’s for Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/11/high-plains-bison-its-whats-for-dinner/) - A few minutes ago, the doorbell rang. Deadline Hell Week continues (I know, it’s supposed to be seven days, but such is life) so I asked Stephen if he could get it. Except when Stephen’s in his office with the a/c on he can’t hear me, so when I said “asked” you should know that
- [Who's Coming to BlogHer?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/04/whos-coming-to-blogher-2/) - Since it's in NYC, it seemed silly of me not to go. So I am. I have to say, though, that between the crazy what-to-wear-at-BlogHer posts I'm seeing all over the internets (seriously, are women really that judgy about what other women are wearing? makes me sad to think so), the #blogher tweeting, and the
- [Who's Coming to BlogHer?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/04/whos-coming-to-blogher/) - Since it's in NYC, it seemed silly of me not to go. So I am. I have to say, though, that between the crazy what-to-wear-at-BlogHer posts I'm seeing all over the internets (seriously, are women really that judgy about what other women are wearing? makes me sad to think so), the #blogher tweeting, and the
- [How to Transform Your Own Recipes for Nap-Time Cooking](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/03/how-to-transform-your-own-recipes-for-nap-time-cooking/) - It’s been a while since I mentioned Nap-Time Cooking, one of my favorite tricks for getting a relatively complex dinner on the table with little ones in the house. Maybe you’ve tried Corn, Peach, Tomato over Grilled Polenta—absolutely perfect for this time of year, btw—or (Relatively) Low-Fat Chicken Pot Pie and discovered, Hey, this technique
- [Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/08/02/blueberry-buckwheat-pancakes/) - What happens when you let a 4-year-old pour the syrup? Peeps, today begins Deadline Hell Week. Which means that if I don’t blog short and sweet, I don’t blog at all. This weekend I picked up some buckwheat flour at the farmer’s market. The obvious first use: pancakes. I adapted a recipe from Epicurious, and
- [Slow-Roasted Tomatoes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/30/slow-roasted-tomatoes/) - You think I’ve been slacking off, don’t you? Just because I haven’t posted a new recipe in, oh ten days? As if. Life is simply insane right now—I’m smack-dab in the middle of two weeks of deadline after deadline, on top of (as always) writing and testing recipes for the book. All I’ve been able
- [Choking Hazard, Shmoking Hazard](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/26/choking-hazard-shmoking-hazard/) - It's been a guest-post-palooza around here lately, hasn't it? Well, now I'm returning the favor. Check out my post on Denise Schipani's Confessions of a Mean Mommy (source of this great guest post on kids and their favorites): It's all about the many, many ways in which I've endangered Harry's life just by feeding him.
- [Guest Post: Hot Dog Day Afternoon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/21/guest-post-hot-dog-day-afternoon/) - Today's guest poster has written here before. And why not? He's my husband. Stephen's also the hottest hot-dog-lover I know. Here's his take on the great dogs of the Westchester-to-Connecticut I95 Corridor. (And folks, he's doing Weight Watchers with me. Stephen ate all this food in one day and still managed to lose weight that
- [Watermelon Gazpacho](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/19/watermelon-gazpacho/) - I had a bit of a watermelon problem. Stephen, who I adore and respect and love and all that other good stuff, kept bringing home ginormous whole melons. This isn’t a bad thing, necessarily, since we do love us some watermelon. But hoo boy they take up a lot of space! Seemed like a good
- [No-Cook Pasta Sauce #2: Raw Tomato Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/16/no-cook-pasta-sauce-2-raw-tomato-sauce/) - The ridiculous heat is back here in NY so it seems like a good time to share that second no-cook sauce I promised… This one’s a little more straight-up, probably a little more familiar. That’s ok. Nothing wrong with familiarity, especially when there are good tomatoes to be had. Seriously, don’t even think of making
- [Eating for Beginners](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/15/eating-for-beginners/) - Have you heard about this book yet? Eating for Beginners: An Education in the Pleasures of Food from Chefs, Farmers, and One Picky Kid by Melanie Rehak was just published this week—and I only heard about it last week—so maybe not. But if you’re a) a parent, b) a person who cares about food and
- [No-Cook Pasta Sauce #1: Angel Hair Zucchini](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/13/no-cook-pasta-sauce-1-angel-hair-zucchini/) - I’m on deadline with a bunch of projects this week, so I’ll keep it short and simple. It’s hot. I don’t want to cook, especially because I'm testing at least two desserts a day for the Easy Indulgences chapter of the cookbook. So I don’t cook. Well, I cook a little—just a single pot, for
- [Strawberry-Balsamic Granita](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/09/strawberry-balsamic-granita/) - So, let’s say you accidentally found yourself with five pounds of strawberries. What would you make? When it’s oh, ten thousand degrees outside, and the very thought of turning on a burner—never mind the oven—makes you sweat uncontrollably? (If you’re a Facebook fan, you may have already answered this question.) I made granita. Are you
- [How NOT to Grill Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/07/how-not-to-grill-pizza/) - Our last night of vacation, also our last night with access to a grill, I decided to attempt something I'd always wanted to try: Grilled Pizza. I prepped the dough, stretched out into single servings, separated by wax paper and frozen briefly. Followed instructions that said to grill 3 minutes on one side, flip, and
- [Guest Post Week: Monica's Question of Taste](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/02/guest-post-week-monicas-question-of-taste/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. The final guest post veers from that topic just a bit—it's an essay by Monica Bhide, one of my favorite
- [Guest Post Week: Monica's Question of Taste](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/02/guest-post-week-monicas-question-of-taste-2/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. The final guest post veers from that topic just a bit—it's an essay by Monica Bhide, one of my favorite
- [Guest Post Week: Christine's Asian-Inspired Noodle Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/01/guest-post-week-christines-asian-inspired-noodle-salad/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. Today's post is from Christine Gross-Loh of Origami Mommy. Christine is the mother of four children under ten, god bless
- [Guest Post Week: Christine's Asian-Inspired Noodle Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/01/guest-post-week-christines-asian-inspired-noodle-salad-2/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. Today's post is from Christine Gross-Loh of Origami Mommy. Christine is the mother of four children under ten, god bless
- [Vacation](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/07/01/vacation/) - Note that junior is eating a cheese stick, black olives, and strawberries for dinner.
- [Guest Post Week: Winnie's Tortellini Salad with Fresh Mozzarella](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/29/guest-post-week-winnies-tortellini-salad-with-fresh-mozzarella/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. Today's post is from Winnie Abramson at Healthy Green Kitchen. Winnie comes to food blogging from a unique perspective: She's
- [Guest Post Week: Winnie's Tortellini Salad with Fresh Mozzarella](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/29/guest-post-week-winnies-tortellini-salad-with-fresh-mozzarella-2/) - This week I'm doing something a little special here at Words to Eat By: an entire week of guest posts! I've invited some blogger friends, all parents, to write about their families' experiences with food. Today's post is from Winnie Abramson at Healthy Green Kitchen. Winnie comes to food blogging from a unique perspective: She's
- [Guest Post Week: Denise's Meatballs, #3](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/28/guest-post-week-denises-meatballs-3-2/) - Yo yo yo, I'm in Vermont! Time for a little family vacation. We're participating in what I suppose you could call a round-robin of housesitting: We're staying at some friends' in Burlington while they're elsewhere, and another family is visiting New York while we're gone. Since I didn't want to leave you staring at that
- [Guest Post Week: Denise's Meatballs, #3](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/28/guest-post-week-denises-meatballs-3/) - Yo yo yo, I'm in Vermont! Time for a little family vacation. We're participating in what I suppose you could call a round-robin of housesitting: We're staying at some friends' in Burlington while they're elsewhere, and another family is visiting New York while we're gone. Since I didn't want to leave you staring at that
- [Tune in Next Week...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/25/tune-in-next-week/) - ...for something a little special, a little different, and a whole lot fun. Check back here Monday morning, k?
- [Escarole Salad with Pecorino, Lemon, and Mint](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/24/escarole-salad-with-pecorino-lemon-and-mint/) - I don’t know about you, but when I think “salad,” escarole isn’t usually the first green to pop into my mind. Or even the second. To me, escarole is a cold-weather vegetable, one to braise lovingly alongside white beans or add to farro-and-white-bean soup, maybe mix into a frittata with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. But
- [Acquisitions Department](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/22/acquisitions-department/) - Lucky me, I picked up three new cookbooks recently. Let’s take a look, shall we? But before we start, I must apologize. These pictures suck. Clearly, I need to take a class or something. First up, my favorite of the bunch: The Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion & Cooking Manual. This is a cookbook/kitchen almanac to
- [It Had to Happen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/19/it-had-to-happen/) - (Move along, nothing to see here—unless you're interested in my Weight Watchers progress...)I gained weight this week. Six-tenths of a pound, so it's not much, and I definitely had it coming. I, uh, overdid things a bit over the course of the week. Several times, in fact.It started with that brisket. Oh, it was good.
- [Overnight BBQ Brisket with Tangy Coleslaw](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/17/overnight-bbq-brisket-with-tangy-coleslaw/) - Yup, it’s summer (well, practically). And we live in an apartment, which means we don’t have a space to cook outdoors. Which means that if we want something BBQ-y, we have to get all MacGyveriffic. This week, we wanted brisket. Not Joan Nathan Jewish brisket. Not fancy-shmancy brisket. And not slow-cooker brisket. What we were
- [Slow Cooker-Roasted Beets](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/14/slow-cooker-roasted-beets/) - I’m on deadline with a chapter for the cookbook—due tomorrow—so I’ll keep this short and sweet (psst… If you’re a Facebook fan, you’ve already gotten a sneak peek at a particularly delish post that’s coming later this week, when I’ll have time to give it a proper write-up). So. It’s early summer. The last thing
- [What's in My Fridge? Find Out on The Stir](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/11/whats-in-my-fridge-find-out-on-the-stir/) - Since I don't share nearly enough of myself here on the blog (uh huh), I thought I'd point out an interview with me that just went live on The Stir/Cafemom. If you're here from The Stir, welcome! Poke around, ask questions, leave comments (I try to answer every one). Maybe even become a Facebook fan.
- [What's in My Fridge? Find Out on The Stir](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/11/whats-in-my-fridge-find-out-on-the-stir-2/) - Since I don't share nearly enough of myself here on the blog (uh huh), I thought I'd point out an interview with me that just went live on The Stir/Cafemom. If you're here from The Stir, welcome! Poke around, ask questions, leave comments (I try to answer every one). Maybe even become a Facebook fan.
- [Who Needs Expiration Dates?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/10/who-needs-expiration-dates/) - That pizza I've been making? I've got a little secret to share, one that may shock and amaze you. The yeast I'm using is old. Way, way, way old. I bought it years ago, when I was baking bread regularly, but for the last few years my yeasty needs have been infrequent, to say the
- [Apple-Cinnamon Whole Wheat Pancakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/07/apple-cinnamon-whole-wheat-pancakes/) - I’ve had a hankering for pancakes. And so, it seems, has my son—he asked for them at least three times this week, but my freezer stash was depleted so a weekday pancake-fest wasn’t in the cards. Sunday morning, on the other hand… especially a Sunday morning when my darling child wakes me at 5:45? Plenty
- [What's Your Favorite Pesto?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/04/whats-your-favorite-pesto-2/) - This morning I'm playing with pesto variations. Which, since I didn't exactly plan to be doing this, required a quick run to the Union Square greenmarket for herbs. Which is where I found this beaut. Seriously, have you ever seen such an exquisite bouquet of basil? And in addition to its out-and-out prettiness, it's organic
- [What's Your Favorite Pesto?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/06/04/whats-your-favorite-pesto/) - This morning I'm playing with pesto variations. Which, since I didn't exactly plan to be doing this, required a quick run to the Union Square greenmarket for herbs. Which is where I found this beaut. Seriously, have you ever seen such an exquisite bouquet of basil? And in addition to its out-and-out prettiness, it's organic
- [Roasted Vegetable Pizza (with Roasted Tomato Sauce)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/05/26/roasted-vegetable-pizza-with-roasted-tomato-sauce/) - I’ve never made pizza from scratch before. Shocking, isn’t it? I bake bread and hamburger buns, challah and popovers, but somehow I just never got around to pizza. It seemed so much easier to buy the dough already made, either Trader Joe’s whole-wheat version or fresh from the local pizzeria. You know where this is
- [Back to Basics: Baked White Rice](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/05/20/back-to-basics-baked-white-rice/) - As my husband would say: Well, I’ll be dipped in buttermilk. I was all set to write this post about the wonder that is baked white rice, how effortless and foolproof it is, how convenient it is to slide a casserole dish into the oven beside the stew simmering in its Dutch oven, but it
- [Brownie Cupcake Bites](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/05/13/brownie-cupcake-bites/) - That’s right. It’s another baking recipe. Which might seem odd to you, given that I’m on Weight Watchers and all. But given that I’m on Weight Watchers, I’m all the more motivated to find sweet treats that won’t leave me in a sobbing, chocolate-smeared heap after devouring every last bite. Treats that fit into the
- [Freezer Organization 101](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/05/10/freezer-organization-101/) - I’ve been embarrassed about this for a long time. No, not my weight. Not my relatively recent inability to dance (I used to really shake my tailfeather. Now, I'm kind of like Elaine on Seinfeld, only less rhythmic). Not even the fact that I’ll often wear the same jeans for an entire week. My friends,
- [Pumpkin-Ricotta Gingersnap Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/05/06/pumpkin-ricotta-gingersnap-pie/) - And so, another round of Parents Need to Eat Too classes comes to an end. Today’s class was devoted to Nap-Time Cooking, one of the techniques I found most helpful when I was a new mom. I’m a few years past that now (Harry gave up naps before he turned three, the little bugger), so
- [Dear Michael Ruhlman,](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/28/dear-michael-ruhlman/) - I like you. I like your work—you’ve got a knack for explaining difficult cooking techniques in ways that make sense to almost anyone. And Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking? One of the smartest not-a-cookbooks I’ve ever read. But your assertion that people who cook from scratch, quickly, are somehow supporting
- [Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Kebabs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/26/lemon-rosemary-chicken-kebabs/) - Keeping this one short and sweet. I spent all weekend at the ASJA conference and I’m pooped! It’s been ages since I posted a recipe for something healthy. Embarrassing as it is to admit, I last wrote about a non-sugar-based food in January. Huh. Maybe that’s why I needed to go back to Weight Watchers.
- [Back in the (Weight Watchers) Saddle, Again](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/20/back-in-the-weight-watchers-saddle-again/) - That’s me, last weekend. Stephen and I finally, after nearly four years, had a night away together. And what do I take away from it? How fat I’ve become. See, I’ve been avoiding the camera recently since I’m well aware things have gotten out of control. I’m full of justifications, but mostly they come down
- [Flourless Honey-Roasted Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies (phew!)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/16/flourless-honey-roasted-peanut-butter-chocolate-chip-cookies-phew/) - It’s been a rough week. Three big deadlines plus work on the Quick Suppers chapter of Parents Need to Eat Too (100+ moms emailed me feedback on the recipes they tested, all within the space of 48 hours). I got everything done, though it was a squeaker. And then last night, a big fat disappointment:
- [I must've been 51st.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/12/i-mustve-been-51st/) - Babble's list of the top 50 mom food bloggers. I'd be lying if I didn't admit to being a wee bit bummed not to be on it, especially since I was one of their original Nibblers food bloggers, but c'est la vie. Hey, I've got a cookbook to write and a cooking class to teach!
- [I must've been 51st.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/12/i-mustve-been-51st-2/) - Babble's list of the top 50 mom food bloggers. I'd be lying if I didn't admit to being a wee bit bummed not to be on it, especially since I was one of their original Nibblers food bloggers, but c'est la vie. Hey, I've got a cookbook to write and a cooking class to teach!
- [One spot now available in Parents Need to Eat TooSM starting 4/14!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/08/one-spot-now-available-in-parents-need-to-eat-toosm-starting-414/) - Newsflash: Just had a cancellation in the sold-out Spring session of Parents Need to Eat Too! Classes start this coming Wednesday, the 14th, and run for four consecutive Wednesdays. Interested? Know someone who might be? Details are here.
- [Matzo Balls: Sinkers or Floaters?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/06/matzo-balls-sinkers-or-floaters/) - A funny thing happens when your child’s Will Eat list dwindles into the single-digits: You find yourself making things you’ve never attempted before, just because he ate them elsewhere with abandon. Such is the case with matzo balls. During Passover, pretty much every one of Harry’s favorite foods is off-limits. Pasta. Waffles. Bagels. Pasta. Macaroni.
- [Check Out One Hungry Mama](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/04/05/check-out-one-hungry-mama/) - Psst, parent-readers:If you're already a fan of ChowMama, you may have heard that Stacie has shaken things up a bit. If you're not (and really, you should be), then you've got a treat in store.Today Stacie announced that she's moved her blog to the new & fabulous One Hungry Mama. She's added a ton of
- [NYC's Best Hot Dogs (family edition)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/31/nycs-best-hot-dogs-family-edition/) - It's a year old, but it's too perfect not to use... I know, I know. For members of the tribe this ain't exactly a hot dog week. But my piece on the city's best hot dogs is just out in Time Out New York Kids, and I thought you might like to see it. Y'know,
- [NYC's Best Hot Dogs (family edition)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/31/nycs-best-hot-dogs-family-edition-2/) - It's a year old, but it's too perfect not to use... I know, I know. For members of the tribe this ain't exactly a hot dog week. But my piece on the city's best hot dogs is just out in Time Out New York Kids, and I thought you might like to see it. Y'know,
- [Looking for Passover recipes? Look no further](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/26/looking-for-passover-recipes-look-no-further/) - In a fit of inspiration (also known as procrastination against looming deadlines), I went through Words to Eat By's recipe index and added a tag to all my recipes that will work for Passover. In some cases they're on the same page as recipes that use chametz, but I trust you to figure things out.While
- [Parents Need to Eat TooSM: Spring Classes Begin Week of April 12](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/24/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-spring-classes-begin-week-of-april-12/) - It's time. I haven't taught a round of Parents Need to Eat Too classes since November, my friends. That is far too long. Just think about how many babies have been born since then! I'd hoped to run a series in March, before Passover, but I couldn't get it organized quickly enough. So now, it's
- [The Easiest French Fries Ever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/21/the-easiest-french-fries-ever/) - It all started when I read this post in the Times’ food blog, Bitten. Start from cold oil, over low heat, and let the fries simmer for a good hour? Intriguing, for sure, except there’s that one icky fact: They’re still fried. Homey don’t deep fry, as regular readers may have noticed. Why? Oh, a
- [Plagiarized No More!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/21/plagiarized-no-more/) - A quick update on the plagiarism situation:It's over. My content has been taken down from the offending site, and I can breathe again. Expect a post on french fries (that's right, honest-to-goodness fried french fries) within the next few days.
- [A Recipe Site: A Recipe for Plagiarism](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/17/a-recipe-site-a-recipe-for-plagiarism/) - If you are reading this post anywhere other than Words to Eat By, you're reading a plagiarized post. A Recipe Site is stealing my blog posts in their entirely and posting them on their own site with no attribution. And since there is no contact info on the site, all I can do is leave
- [Testing...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/17/testing/) - In light of recent developments, I just added a copyright notice to my RSS feed. This is just a test to make sure it's working. Do me a favor? If you're a subscriber and you DON'T see a copyright at the end of this post, please let me know. Thanks, all.Hopefully I'll be resuming regular
- [Dorie Greenspan's Tartest Lemon Tart: Happy Pi Day!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/14/dorie-greenspans-tartest-lemon-tart-happy-pi-day-2/) - I admit, it is 100% coincidental that I made a pie (ok, a tart) in time for Pi Day, 3.14. But here we are. It's not the prettiest, and for quite a while there I was convinced it was a disaster (as in, from the time I poured the filling into the shell, until I
- [Dorie Greenspan's Tartest Lemon Tart: Happy Pi Day!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/14/dorie-greenspans-tartest-lemon-tart-happy-pi-day/) - I admit, it is 100% coincidental that I made a pie (ok, a tart) in time for Pi Day, 3.14. But here we are. It's not the prettiest, and for quite a while there I was convinced it was a disaster (as in, from the time I poured the filling into the shell, until I
- [Roasted Olives with Lemon & Thyme](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/11/roasted-olives-with-lemon-thyme/) - We’re having a grown-up dinner party on Saturday, two couples we know who got married in 2009. Figured it was time to give them a taste of what lies ahead, once younguns come into the picture. Hopefully they won’t sign up for vasectomies after they get a load of Harry’s dance moves—the boy loves an
- [Perhaps the Stupidest Idea, Ever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/11/perhaps-the-stupidest-idea-ever/) - Seriously. Ever. Some yahoo in the New York State Assembly has proposed an outright ban on the use of salt in restaurants throughout the state. As if it were even remotely possible to cook without salt. Clearly, the person who proposed this has never cooked anything in his or her life.I am so embarrassed to
- [Update on Parents Need to Eat TooSM, the Class](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/08/update-on-parents-need-to-eat-toosm-the-class/) - If you're joining me today via the link in Mommypoppins, welcome! Parents Need to Eat Too is a cooking class for new parents, specifically intended to help you feed yourselves when there's a baby in the house. There are four sessions, each of which sends you home with that night's dinner: The New Mom’s Pantry,
- [Guest Post: Kiwi Kai, Bacon & Egg Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/03/02/guest-post-kiwi-kai-bacon-egg-pie/) - I have a confession to make: I've been neglecting you a bit, dear readers. I know, it looks like there are a good handful of recent posts, but if you look closely you'll see that I'm cheating. There are nowhere near enough recipe posts. For that, you have my most sincere apologies. The problem is,
- [Housekeeping](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/27/housekeeping/) - Hello friends. Two things to share with you today: If you've ever clicked on that nice orange button on the top right over there, the one that should open a page where you can subscribe easily to Words to Eat By, you may have noticed that, um, it didn't work. Well, it does now. Subscribe
- [My Hamantaschen Melted](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/25/my-hamantaschen-melted/) - As if we need more proof that rolled dough is my nemesis. The second round came out marginally better. And regardless of looks, they tasted pretty darn good. My fave: Nutella & raspberry. Harry's fave: green sparkling sugar, tons of it. Anyone care to guess where I went wrong? I suspect I let the dough
- [Why Eating at Del Posto Is Like Eating in a Hotel Lobby](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/25/why-eating-at-del-posto-is-like-eating-in-a-hotel-lobby/) - Stephen and I had a daytime date today, lunch at Mario Batali's Del Posto. It was a lot like eating in a snooty hotel in Florence. Here's why:The room itself. Oh my god, the room. Big, soaring staircases. Signage in Italian ("guardaroba" instead of "cloakroom"). Marble everywhere. Curtains so overembellished they'd make Scarlett O'Hara run
- [Freda Rosenfeld, Lactation Consultant and Goddess](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/21/freda-rosenfeld-lactation-consultant-and-goddess/) - A brief digression from all the food talk, if you'll allow...In today's New York Times, there's a profile of lactation consultant Freda Rosenfeld. She is a goddess, people. This is the woman who, after four previous LCs couldn't figure out what Harry and I were doing wrong, was able to fix our problems. To help
- [Parents Need to Eat Too SM: Coming Soon to Bookstores Everywhere](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/19/parents-need-to-eat-too-sm-coming-soon-to-bookstores-everywhere/) - You read that right, my friends. I’m writing a cookbook! I’ve been hinting at it for a while now, but I’d been advised to be prudent and wait until the contract was finalized. Well, I’ve got the contract and it’s official: Parents Need to Eat Too: 150+ Simple, Healthy Recipes for Sleep Deprived, Frazzled New
- [Brown Sugar Millionaire’s Shortbread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/17/brown-sugar-millionaires-shortbread/) - After Monday’s Chocolate Caramel debacle, I knew I needed to redeem myself. Or at least, redeem that caramel. (Picture me sitting at my kitchen table, arms crossed, finger tapping on chin.) Caramel, caramel, what can I do with caramel, one that tastes strongly of molasses… Ideas danced around in my head, most of which involved
- [Psst... Williamsburgers: Moving Sale at The Brooklyn Kitchen!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/16/psst-williamsburgers-moving-sale-at-the-brooklyn-kitchen/) - I meant to tell you: Everyone's favorite kitchen shop, The Brooklyn Kitchen, is moving out of their Lorimer Street location and into The Brooklyn Kitchen Labs.Harry and I stopped in this weekend on our way to the bakery, as we always do. The boy needs to visit Woody, the resident dog, every.single.time we walk by.
- [On Recipe Writing and 19th Century Chocolate Caramels](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/16/on-recipe-writing-and-19th-century-chocolate-caramels/) - The last session I attended at this weekend’s food writers’ conference was a workshop on recipe writing. I figured as long as I’m writing a cookbook, I may as well make sure I’m doing it right. During the session, we had quite a lively discussion about how much detail to give in the instructions, during
- [Linkety Split: Food Writers Edition](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/15/linkety-split-food-writers-edition/) - So, what did you do this weekend? I spent much of it at a food writers' conference (luckily, right here in NYC). It was a chance to meet, for the first time, countless people I consider friends--from Twitter, from Facebook, from all over the Internets. And what do you know, a lot of the folks
- [Dorie Greenspan's CookieBar](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/09/dorie-greenspans-cookiebar/) - If you live in New York, or heck, anywhere in the tristate area, haul ass over to Park & 59th Street PDQ. Dorie Greenspan, author of the much-loved cookbook Baking: From My Home to Yours, has opened a popup cookie shop inside the Mizu salon. It's called CookieBar, and her partner is her son, Josh.
- [Dorie Greenspan's CookieBar](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/09/dorie-greenspans-cookiebar-2/) - If you live in New York, or heck, anywhere in the tristate area, haul ass over to Park & 59th Street PDQ. Dorie Greenspan, author of the much-loved cookbook Baking: From My Home to Yours, has opened a popup cookie shop inside the Mizu salon. It's called CookieBar, and her partner is her son, Josh.
- [Cowkid Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/08/cowkid-cookies/) - Ever had a Cowboy Cookie? I have absolutely no idea where the name comes from, but if you like stuff in your cookies, they’re just about nirvana. Oats, chocolate chips, coconut, pecans, sometimes even raisins... I think of them as oatmeal cookies with impulse-control issues—when the chocolate chips ask if they can jump in, the
- [The Burg's Got a New Cupcakery: Cupcakeland](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/02/the-burgs-got-a-new-cupcakery-cupcakeland-2/) - More than a few of us miss Cheeks, the little bakery on Metropolitan Ave where the owner was often grumbled about (some accused her of being surly, but she was always nice to me) and the baked goods, especially the cupcakes, were outstanding. I still miss their lemon tart. Well, folks, just down the street
- [The Burg's Got a New Cupcakery: Cupcakeland](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/02/02/the-burgs-got-a-new-cupcakery-cupcakeland/) - More than a few of us miss Cheeks, the little bakery on Metropolitan Ave where the owner was often grumbled about (some accused her of being surly, but she was always nice to me) and the baked goods, especially the cupcakes, were outstanding. I still miss their lemon tart. Well, folks, just down the street
- [Lemon-Basil Butterflied Chicken with Baked Rice](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/25/lemon-basil-butterflied-chicken-with-baked-rice/) - My laptop is back on my desk, where it belongs, and all is right with the world. Now, let’s get back to posting about food, shall we? This is one of those much-easier-than-it-looks dinners. Harry’s had a bit of an upset stomach lately, so I wanted something plain enough for him but still interesting enough
- [Thanks for Your Comments!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/25/thanks-for-your-comments/) - My Comment for Haiti period is over, and I'm pleased to announce that I'm sending Partners in Health a donation of $200 as a result. There were 29 messages total, 26 here and another 3 on Facebook (you are a Facebook fan of WTEB, aren't you?). At $5 per that's $145, but it felt a
- [Comment for Haiti](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/18/comment-for-haiti/) - By the way, I just discovered that I missed National De-Lurking Day. (Who knew there even was such a thing?) Apparently you, yes you, the one with the unbrushed teeth and the holey underwear, were supposed to leave me your first-ever comment on January 14th. So let's just pretend I didn't miss it, and add
- [Patience, Grasshopper](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/18/patience-grasshopper/) - My computer's on the fritz. While it's being fixed I'm on a loaner laptop, which is making everything just a wee bit more complicated than I'd like. Which means I probably won't be posting much until I'm back on more comfortable terrain.Soon, I promise. Hopefully within a few days.Meanwhile, though, let's use this opportunity to
- [Frijoles Negros in 90 Minutes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/12/frijoles-negros-in-90-minutes/) - Don’t you just love a lazy Sunday? I woke up in the morning with no plans, except for a trip to the Laundromat (which is always a massive undertaking, unfortunately). But before I left, I had a stroke of genius: Throw some ropa vieja in the slow cooker. I figured there’d be time, later, to
- [Crispy* Baked Risotto Cakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/08/crispy-baked-risotto-cakes/) - Here’s the scene, this past weekend: We’re at my in-laws’ for the postponed Christmas brunch. In bed, around midnight, the night before the gathering. Stephen's eating a buttload of Little Gram’s chocolate chip cookies (made by his mom since, sadly, Little Gram passed away two years ago—her recipes ensure a measure of immortality). I’m sleeping.
- [Overnight Baked Panettone French Toast](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/07/overnight-baked-panettone-french-toast/) - Since the candied bacon wasn’t, y’know, sweet enough, for this weekend’s brunch I also made two trays of baked French toast that used panettone, that deliciously rich, eggy, candied fruit-studded Italian Christmas bread (my in-laws are Italian-American; have I mentioned that?). It’s sorta like an Italian challah, only a bit drier—which makes it perfect for
- [Candied Bacon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2010/01/05/candied-bacon/) - I know, it doesn’t look like much. But trust me, you want to make this. I lost my bacon-cooking virginity to these sinfully seductive strips, and there’s no turning back. Yesterday was my in-laws’ Christmas brunch, postponed due to that snowstorm a few weeks ago. And since I’m, y’know, a food person, I did much
- [See Ya, 2009](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/31/see-ya-2009/) - Sorry for the non-blogging I've been doing lately, but Harry's preschool went on vacation last Tuesday so I've been, uh, busy. Cooking, but not writing. At this point, after nine straight days of Scarlett O'Harry (as Stephen dubbed our boy this morning), Monday can't come soon enough. Hooray for a return to preschool! Once he's
- [Happy Birthday to Me!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/22/happy-birthday-to-me/) - Yup. It's my special day. To celebrate, now that I just met my last remaining deadline of 2009, I am off for a date in a darkened room with a certain someone I like to call George. George Clooney. Then I pick up junior at preschool (his last day until 2010, oy), and we'll bake
- [Erasing All Doubt That I Ever Had a Future in Cake Decorating](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/15/erasing-all-doubt-that-i-ever-had-a-future-in-cake-decorating/) - This is from a kit, people. I can't even console myself that it tastes wonderful and homemade. Of course it didn't help that Harry was eating the candy nearly as fast as I could get it onto the train.
- [Penne with Mushrooms](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/14/penne-with-mushrooms/) - It’s Hanukkah, Night Three. All weekend I’d been planning to make a Livornese fried chicken dish from Claudia Roden’s The Book of Jewish Food. Y’know, fried, cuz of the oil and the miracle and all. But first, Harry’s preschool was having their Hanukkah party. I planned to stop by the butcher on the way, pick
- [In case of emergencies...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/11/in-case-of-emergencies/) - My latke post is right here. Happy Hanukkah, everyone!
- [Zen and the Art of Baking with a Preschooler: Gingerbread Men](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/11/zen-and-the-art-of-baking-with-a-preschooler-gingerbread-men/) - So, let’s say that one day you, um, forget that your son’s preschool ends at 1:00 instead of the usual 2:30. Let’s say you get a text from the school’s director at 1:07, reminding you of that fact. And let’s say you run out the door, work half-completed, lunch half-eaten, in a mad dash to
- [Five Questions About The Biggest Loser](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/09/five-questions-about-the-biggest-loser/) - I confess, I still watch. Back when it premiered, I had some choice things to say about it, but the show proved me wrong. So I kept tuning in. I celebrated when Matt proposed to Suzy (and I love that they're still together, with kids and whatnot). And tonight I shed more than a few
- [Preserved Lemons, Part 1](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/12/02/preserved-lemons-part-1/) - As soon as I saw this recipe for Israeli Couscous with Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemons on David Lebovitz’s site, I knew I had to make it. Of course, the fact that I didn’t have any preserved lemons on hand was a small problem. I moaned to that effect on Facebook, and was immediately (but
- [In Progress](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/26/in-progress/) - Pickled Beet Maple Roasted Butternut, Apples & Shallots Whole Wheat Stuffing with Pancetta, Chestnuts & Parmesan Pumpkin Praline Pie
- [My First Thanksgiving](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/26/my-first-thanksgiving/) - I'm cooking tomorrow, the first time ever. Gulp. On the menu:Turkey & gravy (duh). I think I'll follow Bittman's instructions from How to Cook Everything, unless someone else has a better idea? I'm all ears...Whole Wheat Stuffing with Pancetta, Chestnuts, and Parmesan: Pretty sure it's the unkosherest thing I'll ever cook.Roast Butternut, Apples & Shallots.Pumpkin
- [Pie Crust Remains My Nemesis](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/25/pie-crust-remains-my-nemesis/) - That's all I'm sayin'.
- [Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/23/whole-wheat-hamburger-buns/) - Round these parts, we don’t eat a lot of white bread—it’s a leftover from my Weight Watchers era, back when the Fat & Fiber plan was helping me to lose 100 pounds. The goal each day was to eat no more than xx grams of fat and at least yy grams of fiber. (I don’t
- [Barley Pilaf with Butternut & Fennel: One Recipe, Three Ways](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/19/barley-pilaf-with-butternut-fennel-one-recipe-three-ways/) - ’Dja ever look in your fridge and find a, well, motley assortment of vegetables? Ones that kinda might go together, but kinda might combine into something you’d never want to eat? This is what I faced yesterday: half a butternut squash one fennel bulb carrots celery a giant head of cauliflower broccoli parsnips rosemary, thyme,
- [A Sneak Peek at The Brooklyn Kitchen Labs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/11/a-sneak-peek-at-the-brooklyn-kitchen-labs/) - In the shadow of the BQE, steps from a collision shop and an iron works, may not be the first place you’d expect to find a culinary megacenter, but Harry Rosenblum, Taylor Erkkinen, and Tom Mylan of The Brooklyn Kitchen Labs are betting that if they build it, the food-obsessed will come. Recently I was
- [In Which Food Poisoning Leads to The Easiest Cake Ever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/11/in-which-food-poisoning-leads-to-the-easiest-cake-ever/) - ’ Saturday was shaping up to be a busy day around here—we had a birthday party to attend in the afternoon and a wedding that night, plus Stephen needed a haircut and we had errands to run in the morning, so I had a brainstorm: For breakfast, let’s go to that diner across the street
- [Words to Eat By Is a Babble Nibbler!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/09/words-to-eat-by-is-a-babble-nibbler/) - Have you heard? Babble, the uber-popular parenting web site, has started a new food section. And as part of that food section, they've created a blog called Nibblers, and chosen a (sizable) handful of parent/food bloggers to contribute material. Words to Eat By is one of them. If you're already a regular reader here you
- [(Relatively) Low-Fat Chicken Pot Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/05/relatively-low-fat-chicken-pot-pie/) - Stephen requested a less-saucy version, so I baked this one in a larger dish. Yours will be more substantial-looking, I promise! I loves me some chicken pot pie, especially come cold weather. What could be cozier? But I’ve got three problems with the dish: Most recipes call for whole milk or—gasp—cream. And homey don’t play
- [Linkety Split](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/04/linkety-split/) - Nearly five years ago, I wrote about Philadelphia German Butter Cake (fittingly enough, when another Philly team was in the finals for their sport). Today, the NY Times takes on the St. Louis version.Some exciting news for pizza-loving North Brooklynites: friend of Slice Paulie Gee is opening in Greenpoint's old Paloma space. Kenny's, Fornino, Morotino,
- [We Have a Winner!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/11/01/we-have-a-winner/) - Jennifer Margulis, you are now the proud owner of five new cookbooks! Congratulations! And thanks to everyone who entered. It's been quite the momentous five years; I'm not sure whether to hope for something calmer for the next five, or more of the same.
- [Ending Tonight: My 5-Year Blogaversary/5-Cookbook Giveaway](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/31/ending-tonight-my-5-year-blogaversary5-cookbook-giveaway/) - Have you entered yet?
- [Pan-Roasted Carrots with Crispy Sage](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/30/pan-roasted-carrots-with-crispy-sage/) - There are three reasons why I love this recipe: These days, I love anything with crispy sage. It requires approximately six minutes of actual attention. Perfect for the harried parent—the carrots roasted away while we put Harry to bed, with only occasional shakes of the pan. If I hadn’t told you about point #2, you’d
- [Halloween in Brooklyn? A Child Grows Knows](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/29/halloween-in-brooklyn-a-child-grows-knows/) - Just a quick post for my Brooklyn peeps...If you're a parent and you're looking for fun Halloween stuff to do in NYC, you can't go wrong with A Child Grows in Brooklyn's massive roundup. (Full disclosure: I'm the "food expert" for the site, but I had nothing to do with collecting all this fabulous info.)
- [Tumbador PB&J Bar: Worth Every Penny](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/28/tumbador-pbj-bar-worth-every-penny/) - According to Slashfood, it’s National Chocolate Day. Huh. I had no idea. But perhaps that explains why I’ve been pretty much mainlining the stuff all day. People, I am out of control. Don’t tell Stephen, but I even raided his freezer stash of Hershey’s almond bars. You scoff? So do I; a straight-up, room temperature
- [Overnight Chicken Soup: Parents Need to Eat, Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/25/how-to-make-chicken-soup-in-your-sleep-parents-need-to-eat-toosm/) - Overnight Chicken Soup? What? How? If you're a regular reader, you can probably guess what I'm going to say: Make it in the slow cooker. After we eat a cozy roast chicken dinner (if you're curious, I'm still in love with the super-fast, super-easy butterflying technique I blogged about a while back), I clear the
- [5-year Blogaversary? 5-Cookbook Giveaway!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/24/5-year-blogaversary-5-cookbook-giveaway/) - My friends, today is a momentous day. Words to Eat By is five years old. I’ve known for some time this was coming—when I updated my “about” page a while back I was actually editing my very first post, so the date kinda stuck in my head. But even with all that time to think
- [Oh Pie, Why Must You Taunt Me So?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/22/oh-pie-why-must-you-taunt-me-so/) - Pie really isn't my thing. Eating pie? I'm great at that. But making pie? Not so much. The fillings are no problem, easy as (wait for it) pie. I'm talking crust here, folks. Pie crust is beyond my skill set, apparently. I think it's the rolling: I can never seem to make it come out
- [Parents Need To Eat, Too: Cooking Classes for New Parents, Starting Soon!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/19/parents-need-to-eat-too-cooking-classes-for-new-parents-starting-soon/) - That’s right, folks, it’s time to announce the next series of cooking classes. This round of Parents Need to Eat, Too, begins the week of October 26. If you’re a new parent, or know someone who is, read on… Until the Culinary Institute welcomes breastfeeding moms and toddler toys into the kitchen, this is the
- [Sick as a Dog](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/15/sick-as-a-dog/) - *cough cough*Send chicken soup. Please.
- [Parmesan Cauliflower Fritters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/13/parmesan-cauliflower-fritters/) - I like cauliflower. Really, I do. But as I’ve said before, Stephen’s not too crazy about it. The big exception (other than the pasta dish I link to above): Fried cauliflower, on the buffet for holiday celebrations at his mom’s. The florets, pre-cooked until just tender, are dipped in an eggy batter and pan-fried. They’re
- [Now THIS Is Fun with Fondant](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/11/now-this-is-fun-with-fondant/) - Remember all my posts from last August, about my first experience with fondant, making Harry's Handy Manny birthday cake? Well, here's a kid's cake that puts mine to shame. Homemade fondant, people, and stunning, professional-looking results.If you're the parent of a youngun and haven't yet stumbled across Filth Wizardry, you've got some fun in store.
- [Simply Recipes' Spicy, Citrusy Black Beans](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/09/simply-recipes-spicy-citrusy-black-beans/) - Super-quick post, just to report two things: 1. That no-soak beans method really does work. Made black beans yesterday and they came out perfect. 2. The recipe for Spicy, Citrusy Black Beans on Simply Recipes ROCKS. For Harry's sake I toned down the spice a bit by using just the sauce from the chipotles rather
- [Simply Recipes' Spicy, Citrusy Black Beans](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/09/simply-recipes-spicy-citrusy-black-beans-2/) - Super-quick post, just to report two things:1. That no-soak beans method really does work. Made black beans yesterday and they came out perfect.2. The recipe for Spicy, Citrusy Black Beans on Simply Recipes ROCKS. For Harry's sake I toned down the spice a bit by using just the sauce from the chipotles rather than the
- [It All Started with a Pot of Beans](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/08/it-all-started-with-a-pot-of-beans/) - I’d been eyeing this post over at The Paupered Chef for a while—it describes how to cook dried beans quickly (relatively), without soaking. I’m all about saving time these days, so it seemed right up my alley. One morning last week, while Harry was at preschool, I pulled a bag of small red beans from
- [Getting to Know Me...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/07/getting-to-know-me/) - Stephanie Stiavetti at Wasabimon! was lucky enough to attend the recent BlogHer Food conference, and she came back filled with love and gooey good feelings for her fellow food bloggers. So she thought up what I think is a lovely idea: Stephanie is running a series of interviews with food bloggers, asking each one the
- [Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Risotto](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/05/slow-cooker-butternut-squash-risotto/) - When Harry was born, I was really active on a women’s message board, the outgrowth of an indie wedding-planning board for those of us who’d graduated into married life and, many of us hoped, children. When I got pregnant our first month trying, these women were there to marvel at my late-in-life fertility—and when I
- [Who Knew? October is National Cookie Month](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/10/02/who-knew-october-is-national-cookie-month/) - I've been asleep at the wheel this week, and I apologize. I've been cooking up a storm (as my Facebook fans know, because they get a sneak peek) but haven't had time to write up posts & recipes. Buuuut, I just heard some exciting news: October is National Cookie Month! I feel like celebrating, don't
- [Foodshots](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/29/foodshots/) - Have you heard about this new aggregator-type blog, called Foodshots? Here's the explanation from the site:Foodshots is an online collaborative arts project that showcases the very best in food blogging. Everyone is welcome to contribute, but every nomination for entry will be reviewed. Foodshots is like a continually evolving cookery book that belongs on both
- [Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Fried Sage and Shaved Chestnuts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/24/sweet-potato-gnocchi-with-fried-sage-and-shaved-chestnuts/) - Did you ever make something so delicious, so transporting, so perfectly satisfying that the memory of eating it lingers for days? I knew as soon as I read the October Gourmet that this recipe would be a winner. But I didn’t really think I’d cook it—I’m a gnocchi neophyte. And then, on Sunday, we took
- [Brick Oven Pizzaiolo Wanted](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/24/brick-oven-pizzaiolo-wanted/) - Remember how I slipped in a slam on Vertuccio's, the new brick oven pizza joint near McCarren Park, at the end of this post the other day? Well, check out what's on Craig's List.Maybe the owners read Words to Eat By.(In an odd coincidence, local fave Fornino is also looking for a pizza chef! I
- [Crowdsourcing Tonight's Dinner?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/23/crowdsourcing-tonights-dinner-2/) - Today's New York Times has an interesting article about crowdsourcing recipes, creating a wiki where users can enter their favorite recipes and anyone can change them. Personally, I don't think that's such a great idea; I'm the first one to admit that I rarely follow a recipe exactly as written, but I'd never think that
- [Crowdsourcing Tonight's Dinner?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/23/crowdsourcing-tonights-dinner/) - Today's New York Times has an interesting article about crowdsourcing recipes, creating a wiki where users can enter their favorite recipes and anyone can change them. Personally, I don't think that's such a great idea; I'm the first one to admit that I rarely follow a recipe exactly as written, but I'd never think that
- [Apple Cake, Day 2](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/19/apple-cake-day-2/) - Um, yeah. This one's a winner. After last night's challah and honey & apples and honey & gefilte fish & matzoh ball soup & brisket & kasha varnishkes & honeyed carrots, dessert wasn't exactly necessary, but I couldn't leave my folks' without a wee taste of the Apple Cake Harry and I had baked. Yowza,
- [L’Shana Tova, Everyone!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/18/lshana-tova-everyone/) - The other day I asked you all to submit your favorite apple cake recipes. I got quite a few delicious-looking submissions (thanks!), but most were a variation on the same “Jewish” Apple Cake recipe that’s in Joan Nathan's The Jewish Holiday Kitchen: 250 Recipes from Around the World to Make Your Celebrations Special. And that
- [Williamsburg's Late, Great Brick Oven Gallery: Resurrecting! Sorta.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/15/williamsburgs-late-great-brick-oven-gallery-resurrecting-sorta-2/) - Stephen and I had some of our first dates at Brick Oven Gallery, a humble little Italian joint on Havemeyer Street. It was known for its 130-year-old brick oven, out of which came some of the tastiest, most unassuming artisanal pizza around. BOG was here before Fornino, and long before Motorino. We'd often see Kenny,
- [Williamsburg's Late, Great Brick Oven Gallery: Resurrecting! Sorta.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/16/williamsburgs-late-great-brick-oven-gallery-resurrecting-sorta/) - Stephen and I had some of our first dates at Brick Oven Gallery, a humble little Italian joint on Havemeyer Street. It was known for its 130-year-old brick oven, out of which came some of the tastiest, most unassuming artisanal pizza around. BOG was here before Fornino, and long before Motorino. We'd often see Kenny,
- [What's Your Favorite Apple Cake Recipe?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/15/whats-your-favorite-apple-cake-recipe-2/) - Harry's preschool is closed on Friday for Rosh Hashanah, so I'm left with an entire day to fill with my preschooler. I'm not a SAHM, I'm a WAHM, so a whole, unstructured day tends to fill me with a mixture of excitement, dread, and fear. Times like this, I often turn to baking. Lucky me,
- [What's Your Favorite Apple Cake Recipe?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/15/whats-your-favorite-apple-cake-recipe/) - Harry's preschool is closed on Friday for Rosh Hashanah, so I'm left with an entire day to fill with my preschooler. I'm not a SAHM, I'm a WAHM, so a whole, unstructured day tends to fill me with a mixture of excitement, dread, and fear. Times like this, I often turn to baking. Lucky me,
- [1st Annual Foodbuzz Food Blog Awards: Nominations Are Open](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/14/1st-annual-foodbuzz-food-blog-awards-nominations-are-open/) - Here's a bit of exciting news: Foodbuzz, a genuinely fun site for anyone interested in food or food blogs, has just announced the creation of their first annual Foodbuzz Food Blog Awards. I know, there's the teensiest possibility that the world doesn't need another series of food blog awards. But I'm a member of Foodbuzz
- [Butterflied Roast Chicken (AKA Foolproof Roast Chicken)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/14/butterflied-roast-chicken-aka-foolproof-roast-chicken/) - She looks so demure, doesn’t she? It’s often said that the true test of a restaurant kitchen is roast chicken. This is because, for as simple as it looks, roasting a chicken well is ridiculously difficult. Just ask me, I know. Over the years I’ve roasted dozens of chickens, and I’m embarrassed to admit I’ve
- [Hey, Brooklynites, Check out the Greenpoint Food Market!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/10/hey-brooklynites-check-out-the-greenpoint-food-market/) - As if Brooklyn isn't already the foodiest boro in the city, now we've got another place to flaunt our deliciousness...The Greenpoint Food Market starts this Saturday inside the Church of the Messiah at 129 Russell St, between Nassau and Driggs. It's all locally made yums--for a few minutes I thought about signing up to sell
- [Isn't It Ironic: Food Bloggers with Picky Eaters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/06/isnt-it-ironic-food-bloggers-with-picky-eaters-2/) - Are you a fellow food blogger? Do you have a child under six who's a picky eater? I'd love to talk to you! Please leave a comment below or email me via the "contact" button, and I'll explain.
- [Isn't It Ironic: Food Bloggers with Picky Eaters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/06/isnt-it-ironic-food-bloggers-with-picky-eaters/) - Are you a fellow food blogger? Do you have a child under six who's a picky eater? I'd love to talk to you! Please leave a comment below or email me via the "contact" button, and I'll explain.
- [This One Gets Its Own Post](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/04/this-one-gets-its-own-post/) - It's off-topic, not about food at all, but Denise over at Confessions of a Mean Mommy wrote a post that describes almost exactly how I feel about the idea of having another child. I've only got Harry, of course, and she's got two children, but acknowledgments of how difficult it is to care for a
- [Random Linkage](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/03/random-linkage/) - It’s been a while since I did a roundup of interesting stuff I’ve come across. Time to rectify that! Williamsburg’s (and NYC’s, for that matter) superstar butcher Tom Mylan is joining forces with fellow Marlow alum Brent Young and Harry and Taylor from The Brooklyn Kitchen to open a “food dork megaplex” on Meeker Street,
- [Pumpernickel: Not Chocolate, But a Favorite Nonetheless](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/09/01/pumpernickel-not-chocolate-but-a-favorite-nonetheless/) - “When you were little, did you think pumpernickel was chocolate bread?” These are the kinds of questions my husband asks me. The answer, I’m pretty sure, is No, because as far back as I can remember I loved the tangy, chewy heft of pumpernickel. My mom would take us to Waldbaum’s on Thursday afternoons (pay
- [August 29, 2006, 12:15 PM](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/29/august-29-2006-1215-pm/) - August 26, 2009, 12:15 PM:
- [Done with Fun with Fondant](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/28/done-with-fun-with-fondant/) - This is either the definition of love, or the definition of crazy. Last night I was up past midnight, finishing the individual fondant pieces for Harry's birthday cake. All told, it took me about ten hours of after-dinner work to create everybody. One thing I learned: Fondant is definitely not my strong suit. All that
- [Djerdan Bureks (Boreks, Borekas, Bourekas)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/27/djerdan-bureks-boreks-borekas-bourekas/) - I may live in Brooklyn now, and I was born and raised in Westchester, but I’m a Queens girl at heart. More specifically, an Astoria girl. My first New York City apartment was there, and my second, and my third—that last one was home for a dozen years. Considering the fact that my family moved
- [A Teeny, Tiny Toot of the Horn](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/25/a-teeny-tiny-toot-of-the-horn/) - I try to be humble. Really, I do. But I just got the most wonderful, the most joy-making, the most gratifying email about Parents Need to Eat, Too (the cooking class) and I can't resist sharing: First off: LOVED the class! Wonderful. I wanted it to go on longer. You are a natural teacher and
- [Fondant ≠ Fundant](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/23/fondant-≠-fundant/) - Back in the day, Saturday night meant sparkly clothes, makeup, heels, and a shiny bright attitude. These days, it's more likely to mean rolling pins, X-acto knives, and yellow goo. Harry wants a Handy Manny cake for his birthday party, which is one week from today. And after taking that cake-decorating class I quickly realized
- [Well, Whaddya Know](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/21/well-whaddya-know/) - My recipe for The Best Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies in the Entire World got a shoutout today on Gourmet.com (I'm the link for "City Bakery" under "Q is for Questing.") It's a really fun feature filled with links to interesting food sites, so as long as you're there take a walk through the alphabet. If
- [Nap-Time Cooking: Corn, Peach, Tomato over Grilled Polenta](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/21/nap-time-cooking-corn-peach-tomato-over-grilled-polenta/) - I think this may be the most delicious salad I have ever eaten. It’s two days later, and I’m still thinking about it. Bonus: it breaks down really easily into nap-time chunks of work, so you’ll be able to get this one done over the course of the day, no problem. (And if you’re not
- [Angel Hair with Garlic and Lemon-Parmesan Breadcrumbs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/19/angel-hair-with-garlic-and-lemon-parmesan-breadcrumbs/) - Stephen and I are tired. Really tired. Almost all the time these days. He’s working on a ginormous job—it’s a wonderful thing, a prestigious project, a plum position to have on his resume—that keeps him at work until at least 7 every night. I’m working on, oh, eight or nine different writing projects, and when
- [Here's a Contest I'll Never Win](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/18/heres-a-contest-ill-never-win/) - Cookie magazine is running a cake-decorating contest. Send them a pic of your best effort, and you could win some groovy prizes! How do I know I'll never win? Reason #1: I took a cake decorating class last week at the Brooklyn Kitchen, and this was my result: It ain't pretty, that's for sure. Lord
- [Here's a Contest I'll Never Win](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/18/heres-a-contest-ill-never-win-2/) - Cookie magazine is running a cake-decorating contest. Send them a pic of your best effort, and you could win some groovy prizes! How do I know I'll never win? Reason #1: I took a cake decorating class last week at the Brooklyn Kitchen, and this was my result: It ain't pretty, that's for sure. Lord
- [Why Read Me? Redux](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/13/why-read-me-redux/) - Over the years, I've gotten requests from readers to update my About Me page (you can't see most of them, since I lost all my older comments in the recent redesign. Trust me, they're there). And since that redesign, there have been even more, both in the comments section and via email. It's not like
- [Food52](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/12/food52/) - Have you heard about Food52 yet? It's an ingenious web-site-cum-cookbook, created by Amanda Hesser (food writer at the New York Times) and Merrill Stubbs (a freelance food writer). The idea is simple: Each week for a year, Hesser & Stubbs invite all of us to submit our best recipes, in 104 different categories (two per
- [Black & White Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/12/black-white-cookies/) - In the early days of Words to Eat By, I blogged about Kasha Varnishkes as my Madeleines, the food that brings long-forgotten memories rushing back. But see, that’s silly. Everyone knows that Proust was talking about a cookie. And if Proust were Jewish*, growing up in or around New York City in the 70s, his
- [Sneak Peeks](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/07/sneak-peeks/) - Hey, are you a Facebook fan of Words to Eat By? I only ask cuz, y'know, if you were, right now you'd be looking at a tantalizing picture of a black & white cookie.Stay tuned. I've got the pictures ready and I'm hoping to write the post today. Meanwhile, though, get yourself over to FB
- [I Can Hear the Crickets Chirping...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/08/05/i-can-hear-the-crickets-chirping/) - I know, I know, I'm a sorry excuse for a blogger right now. Work is absolutely kicking my butt, and when work is done Harry gets in a few swift kicks, too. Buuuut...There is something wonderful on the horizon. Something quintessentially New York, something I grew up on and love almost as much as Samoas.
- [Got a Picky Toddler? Get Hungry Monkey](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/31/got-a-picky-toddler-get-hungry-monkey/) - People, I haven't even finished reading it yet but already I know that Matthew Amster-Burton's Hungry Monkey: A Food-Loving Father's Quest to Raise an Adventurous Eater is a game-changer. I bought the book months ago, but it was relegated immediately to my Someday stack. Honestly, I was intimidated. It's the story of a food writer
- [Turkey and Pinto Bean Cornbread Pie: Almost Meatless Potluck Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/29/turkey-and-pinto-bean-cornbread-pie-almost-meatless-potluck-dinner/) - You know how, about a month ago, I said I liked potluck dinners? Well, come on over for another one! This time our hosts are Joy Manning and Tara Mataraza Desmond, coauthors of Almost Meatless: Recipes That Are Better for Your Health and the Planet. About 30 food bloggers are participating. I’m bringing Turkey and
- [A Newer Fizzy, Frosty, Fruity Freeze](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/26/a-newer-fizzy-frosty-fruity-freeze/) - Now that my blogging seems to be as much about parenting Harry as it does about food—though lord knows I do try to tip the scales in favor of food—I often ask myself if I’m writing things that will someday embarrass my son. As in, once he’s in junior high school and his pals Google
- [Get in on the Julie/Julia Action](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/21/get-in-on-the-juliejulia-action/) - So maybe I wasn't invited to the special food bloggers' screening of Julie & Julia. I'm not hurt. Really, I'm not. And maybe WTEB isn't a "blog of the day" on Sony Pictures' site for the movie. (Pardon me for a moment. I've, uh, got something in my eye. There, that's better.) Whatever. I still
- [My Kitchen Looks Nothing Like This](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/21/my-kitchen-looks-nothing-like-this/) - Kitchen Tour (version 3.0) from Food52 on Vimeo.Amanda Hesser, I don't know whether to hate you or try to meet & befriend you, so that one day I might have the great thrill of cooking in your spectacular kitchen. I already follow you on Twitter; perhaps some stalking is in order.I jest. Mostly.
- [Zen and the Art of Baking with a Toddler: Cupcake Edition](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/17/zen-and-the-art-of-baking-with-a-toddler-cupcake-edition/) - Harry’s first hero: Bob the Builder. Second hero: Thomas the Tank Engine. Third: Handy Manny. (I won’t even get into how hard it was for me to let go of my ideals for only wooden, non-commercialized toys.) Yup, he’s 100% boy—regardless of our efforts to raise a gender-neutral, sensitive little creature, he seems to be
- [Chilled Mango-Pomegranate-Ginger Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/15/chilled-mango-pomegranate-ginger-soup/) - Sometimes I’m super-organized (hey, I’m a Capricorn). And sometimes, well, let’s just say I’m not. This story falls into the latter category. We went to visit Stephen’s folks this weekend. Had a lovely time, ate lots of sausages and house-made hot dogs from Marlow & Daughters (we always bring BK-made food when we go down;
- [Off-Topic: Attention, Parents of Truck-Loving Boys](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/14/off-topic-attention-parents-of-truck-loving-boys/) - Check out this incredible tutorial for a dump truck made out of recycled milk cartons! I can't wait until Harry's old enough to do this with me.I know, that has nothing to do with food, really. Except for the milk carton part. But I'm so excited, I just had to share. (Plus you should totally
- [Addendum: Pomegranate Salad Dressing](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/09/addendum-pomegranate-salad-dressing/) - A little while after the moms left this morning, I decided to make a batch of Wheatberry Salad (there wasn't enough quinoa for our dinner!). I had the dressing already made from the quinoa salad, so I decided to just use that--but I was worried it wouldn't be enough. So I did what I always
- [The Power of the Pantry (Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas, Walnuts & Dried Fruit)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/09/the-power-of-the-pantry-quinoa-salad-with-chickpeas-walnuts-dried-fruit/) - All I can say is, Thank god for my pantry. Today was the first session with a new group for my Parents Need to Eat, TooSM cooking class. As always, I planned to start with a discussion of The New Mom’s Pantry, after which we’d cook that night’s dinner. Since it’s a pantry class the
- [Believe It or Not: 1 Space Available in Parents Need to Eat, Too, Starting THURSDAY!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/06/believe-it-or-not-1-space-available-in-parents-need-to-eat-too-starting-thursday/) - After all the great responses I've received for the next series of classes, which begins this Thursday, somehow I still have one space available. Who knew: People's schedules change much more frequently in summer. In recent days we've had more juggling than Ringling Brothers, my friends.What does this mean? It means that if you were
- [Farmer's Market Haul](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/04/farmers-market-haul-2/) - I love this time of year...2 quarts strawberries2 pints blueberries1 bunch basil1 bunch chives1 head red salad bowl lettuce5 Jersey tomatoes5 of the cutest little zucchini5 each red bliss and Yukon gold potatoes5 ears corn 1 dozen eggs2 pints of ice cream (!!!): chocolate mint & chocolate raspberry truffle2 pounds of wheatberriesThings I didn't buy
- [Farmer's Market Haul](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/04/farmers-market-haul/) - I love this time of year...2 quarts strawberries2 pints blueberries1 bunch basil1 bunch chives1 head red salad bowl lettuce5 Jersey tomatoes5 of the cutest little zucchini5 each red bliss and Yukon gold potatoes5 ears corn 1 dozen eggs2 pints of ice cream (!!!): chocolate mint & chocolate raspberry truffle2 pounds of wheatberriesThings I didn't buy
- [Savino’s Quality Pasta with Chicken, Artichokes, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/03/savinos-quality-pasta-with-chicken-artichokes-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/) - You know that chicken I “roasted” in the slow cooker? Well, one downside of letting something cook for five hours is that by the time it’s ready, you may have lost your enthusiasm for actually eating it. That’s what happened to me the other day—the slow cooker filled the apartment with delicious roast-chicken smells all
- [Happy Fourth, Everyone!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/03/happy-fourth-everyone/)
- [Slow Cooker “Roast” Chicken: Parents Need to Eat, TooSM](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/02/slow-cooker-roast-chicken-parents-need-to-eat-toosm/) - OK, that picture isn’t quite accurate. That’s a picture of a chicken roasted the old-fashioned way, in the oven. But people like to look at pretty pictures of food, and if I started out showing you what a chicken looks like after five hours in the slow cooker, you might stop reading. And you shouldn’t
- [Twelve Minute Pasta Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/01/twelve-minute-pasta-salad/) - Twelve minutes. That’s how long it takes for the pasta to boil, and it’s also how long it takes to pull this entire recipe together. It’s light, it’s summery, and if you toss in some bocconcini, edamame, chicken, or tuna, it’s a meal. I plan to alternate it with my Wheatberry Salad for lunch, oh,
- [One Spot Left! Parents Need to Eat, Too: Starting Thursday July 9](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/07/01/one-spot-left-parents-need-to-eat-too-starting-thursday-july-9/) - Thanks to the onset of summer (finally) and the last-minute schedule changes that always seem to accompany it, I have one spot available in the next session of Parents Need to Eat, Too, the cooking class I teach in my Williamsburg kitchen. We'll be meeting every Thursday in July from 9:30-11, starting July 9. The
- [So Long](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/26/so-long/) - Tomorrow morning before the crack of dawn (seriously, we're getting up at 5), Stephen will be driving me and junior to the airport. Harry and I are on our way to Columbus, Ohio, home of Jeni's Ice Cream. Jeni's just got a flurry of publicity here in NYC because Jeni will be shipping small batches
- [Wheatberry Salad: My New Favorite Thing](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/25/wheatberry-salad-my-new-favorite-thing/) - Remember how in my steel-cut oatmeal post I said that chewy is one of my preferred textures? Well, these cute little nuggets are the ultimate in chewyliciousness. And in a bright, summery salad, they’re my new favorite thing. Our neighborhood farmer’s market has a new vendor, which is always cause for excitement. But this one
- [Black Bean & Corn Turnovers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/24/black-bean-corn-turnovers/) - These little pups have quite a few things going for them: They’re vegetarian They’re made with whole grains, beans, vegetables, and cheese: a nutritionally-complete little package They’re perfect for Nap Time Cooking You can eat them with one hand (parents of infants understand why this is important) If you’ve stocked the New Mom’s Pantry, you’ve
- [Rice Pudding and Mango Parfait: Modern Spice Potluck Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/22/rice-pudding-and-mango-parfait-modern-spice-potluck-dinner/) - Remember that wonderful new cookbook I raved about a while back, Modern Spice? Source of the nearly-miraculous Ginger and Honey Marinade? Recently the author, Monica Bhide, announced that there was a virtual potluck dinner in the works, in which participating food bloggers would each prepare one recipe from the book and blog about it on
- [Happy Father's Day, Stephen!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/21/happy-fathers-day-stephen-2/) - (Clearly, my boys both like their hot dogs--and their hot dog shirts.)
- [Happy Father's Day, Stephen!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/21/happy-fathers-day-stephen/) - (Clearly, my boys both like their hot dogs--and their hot dog shirts.)
- [Overnight Steel-Cut Oatmeal](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/19/overnight-steel-cut-oatmeal/) - It’s June. Mid-June. Some would even say it’s getting on towards late June. So why am I still making oatmeal? Because it’s so ridiculously easy, that’s why. This overnight trick (which involves a slow cooker, I must warn you) is laughable as far as an actual recipe goes: You measure water, you measure oats, you
- [Welcome to the New & Improved Words to Eat By](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/18/welcome-to-the-new-improved-words-to-eat-by/) - Ain’t it pretty? Isabella Snow did a kick-ass job with the new design, and she jumped through about a billion hoops to get everything up and running. Feel free to poke around, kick the tires—and be sure to alert me in Comments if you see anything funky. There could be a hidden glitch or two,
- [Watch This Space--But Wait a Day or Two, Willya?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/16/watch-this-space-but-wait-a-day-or-two-willya/) - Well, I did it. I finally noticed that Words to Eat By is looking a little shabby. It's been almost five years now, and the upholstery's starting to get that threadbare sheen. I appreciate how tactful you've been, averting your gaze to spare my feelings, but eventually I caught on: This layout is tired, and
- [They Can’t All Be Winners](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/15/they-cant-all-be-winners/) - It started out so promising. I’d just finished making a fantastic recipe from Modern Spice (which I’ll be blogging about on June 22, the day of Monica Bhide’s very exciting Potluck Blogger Dinner). That recipe called for sweetened condensed milk, but just a few tablespoons. What to do with the rest? I tweeted a request
- [Are You on Facebook? So Is Words to Eat By](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/13/are-you-on-facebook-so-is-words-to-eat-by/) - Yup, it's true. I created a fan page for this here blog. WTEB is almost five years old, so hopefully I've got a fan or two. (But boy am I embarrassed right now,with just ten lonely fans. Though I guess it's enough to put together a softball team or something, no?)The fan page is part
- [The New Mom's ORGANIZED Pantry](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/12/the-new-moms-organized-pantry-2/) - Maybe you've taken my advice (and the extremely helpful comments) to heart and stocked up on items for your New Mom's Pantry. I know, it's a lot of stuff! And maybe you're like me, and you're nowhere near as organized as you think you are. Maybe your pantry now looks a little something like this:
- [The New Mom's ORGANIZED Pantry](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/12/the-new-moms-organized-pantry/) - Maybe you've taken my advice (and the extremely helpful comments) to heart and stocked up on items for your New Mom's Pantry. I know, it's a lot of stuff! And maybe you're like me, and you're nowhere near as organized as you think you are. Maybe your pantry now looks a little something like this:
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: New Series of Classes Starts in July](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/09/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-new-series-of-classes-starts-in-july/) - The next session of my cooking class, Parents Need to Eat, TooSM starts in just a few weeks! Now that baby's here, are you finding it as hard as I did to make sure you’re eating well? Living on takeout and jarred pasta sauce? Come and learn in my Williamsburg kitchen! The class focuses on
- [Zen and the Art of Baking with a Toddler, Part 3](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/06/zen-and-the-art-of-baking-with-a-toddler-part-3/) - So, maybe it’s a rainy Friday afternoon. And maybe your toddler asks you to pull out his “lellow” rolling pin (because of course you’ve already bought him his own bright yellow silicone mini-rolling pin). “Why?” you ask. “Because I want to bake with you,” he says as if you’re a ninny for not deducing that.
- [Mama's Got a Brand New Gig](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/01/mamas-got-a-brand-new-gig-2/) - If you’re a parent and you live in Brooklyn—or anywhere else, really—then you simply must read A Child Grows in Brooklyn. It’s a wonderful blog full of information about parenting in Brooklyn, parenting in the city, and parenting in general. I’ve been a fan for years; impressively, Karen had her first child around the same
- [Mama's Got a Brand New Gig](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/06/01/mamas-got-a-brand-new-gig/) - If you’re a parent and you live in Brooklyn—or anywhere else, really—then you simply must read A Child Grows in Brooklyn. It’s a wonderful blog full of information about parenting in Brooklyn, parenting in the city, and parenting in general. I’ve been a fan for years; impressively, Karen had her first child around the same
- [Nap-Time Cooking: Roasted Vegetable Lasagna](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/31/nap-time-cooking-roasted-vegetable-lasagna/) - Infants take a lot of naps. They may not be regular, but odds are a baby’s going to nod off three or four times a day. All the books tell us to sleep when the baby sleeps, but 99% of new parents know that’s a load of hooey—there’s too much else to do. When Harry
- [Zen to the Sixth Power: The Art of Baking with Six Toddlers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/27/zen-to-the-sixth-power-the-art-of-baking-with-six-toddlers/) - Tomorrow is the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Now, don't ask me what it's all about because I'm not exactly sure, but since Harry goes to a Jewish preschool it's an event of note. One of the traditions associated with Shavuot is eating dairy foods. Considering my distaste for cheese and most other dairy products (except
- [Help Us Pick a Foodie Day Trip!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/23/help-us-pick-a-foodie-day-trip/) - Now, I know not many people are reading today, but if you're out there, I have a plea for help. We've got the itch. The itch to go somewhere, to eat something exciting and authentic and can't-find-it-elsewhere. Problem is, it's got to be a day trip from Brooklyn. Tomorrow. As in, Sunday of Memorial Day
- [Phew! The Blogroll, She Is (Finally) Updated](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/22/phew-the-blogroll-she-is-finally-updated/) - When you let your blog lie fallow for two-plus years, several things happen. First, you lose A LOT of your old readership (come back! If you forgive me, I forgive you!). Second, your blogging muscles go a little slack, so you’ve got to keep flexing them to get back into the swing (I'm getting better
- [Dear Stephen, I've met someone else.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/15/dear-stephen-ive-met-someone-else-2/) - OK, so it's a cookie. I suppose technically I'm not going to divorce my husband and marry a cookie, but if such a thing were legal I'd consider it. I first fell in love with these cookies yesterday--it was a whirlwind romance--just by reading the recipe on Baking Bites. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies: Come
- [Dear Stephen, I've met someone else.](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/15/dear-stephen-ive-met-someone-else/) - OK, so it's a cookie. I suppose technically I'm not going to divorce my husband and marry a cookie, but if such a thing were legal I'd consider it. I first fell in love with these cookies yesterday--it was a whirlwind romance--just by reading the recipe on Baking Bites. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies: Come
- [Quickie Links](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/14/quickie-links/) - Here’s some random stuff that’s caught my eye recently…ChowMama’s open letter to the powers that be at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, pleading with them to offer more healthy food options in the café. I agree, even if I would crawl a mile over broken glass for their chicken fingers.Freelance writer/mom Peggy Bourjaily’s charming new blog,
- [Modern Spice: Ginger and Honey Marinade](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/12/modern-spice-ginger-and-honey-marinade/) - I have a new friend, though we’ve never met in person. Her name is Monica Bhide, and she’s a food writer, the kind of food writer I’d like very much to be. Her work is informed by her life (she’s Indian, but grew up in the Middle East) and her upbringing, her ethnicity and her
- [Harry Mother's Day!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/10/harry-mothers-day-2/)
- [Harry Mother's Day!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/10/harry-mothers-day/)
- [Coming Soon: Edible Queens](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/08/coming-soon-edible-queens/) - It's not often that I'm in on the ground floor of something this exciting. But a friend of mine--a friend of Stephen's initially, who's now a friend of mine--is launching a new food magazine dedicated to my old stomping grounds, Queens, New York. Leah McLaughlin is herself a resident, and boy does she know food.
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Mark Bittman on Freezing](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/06/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-mark-bittman-on-freezing/) - Clearly, the New York Times’ Mark Bittman is a man after my own heart. On Monday I blogged about Big Batch Cooking—cooking large amounts of food to freeze—and in today’s paper, Bittman gives us his handy guide to freezing just about everything you can think of. Ladies and gentlemen, in honor of Mr. Bittman, I’m
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Big Batch Cooking](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/04/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-big-batch-cooking/) - This morning I taught my third session of Parents Need to Eat, TooSM. The topic: Big Batch Cooking—stuff that might take you a couple hours to prepare, but you’ll wind up with so much yumminess that you’ll get at least two meals out of it and more to freeze. Today we cooked Three-Bean Turkey Chili
- [Superfudgy Low-Fat Brownies: Zen and the Art of Baking with a Toddler](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/05/03/superfudgy-low-fat-brownies-zen-and-the-art-of-baking-with-a-toddler/) - There’s an art to baking with a toddler. Usually, it involves plenty of preparedness. Pulling out the ingredients beforehand, consulting the recipe to be sure you’ve got everything you need, laying out your bowls & tools. Y’know, the stuff I mentioned when we hosted a Toddler Cookie Party on New Year’s Eve. But sometimes, all
- [Most Valuable Ingredient: Lentils](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/29/most-valuable-ingredient-lentils/) - A piece I wrote for WeightWatchers.com, the first of a series called Most Valuable Ingredient, just went live. Its subject: Lentils!Here's how Weight Watchers describes a Most Valuable Ingredient:A limited budget doesn't have to mean limited flavor. Our Most Valuable Ingredient series highlights those powerhouse products that are versatile, healthy, tasty and cheap, giving you
- [I've Been Babbled!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/29/ive-been-babbled/) - If you're coming here from Kate Tuttle's Strollerderby post on Babble, I'm thrilled to see you. I've been writing my Parents Need to Eat, TooSM posts for a month now, but if I stop to think about it I've really been writing them all along. Sure, I've written a complicated recipe or two in my
- [I've Been Babbled!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/28/ive-been-babbled-2/) - If you're coming here from Kate Tuttle's Strollerderby post on Babble, I'm thrilled to see you. I've been writing my Parents Need to Eat, TooSM posts for a month now, but if I stop to think about it I've really been writing them all along. Sure, I've written a complicated recipe or two in my
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Super-Simple Polynesian Flank Steak](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/28/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-super-simple-polynesian-flank-steak/) - (Before we even get started I feel I must apologize for that picture. Personally, I hate rare meat—I think I must be a latent vegetarian, because anything that reminds me too much of what my meat used to be makes me queasy. This photo, with all that fleshy looking flesh, is too close for comfort.
- [Just One More Thing About Emily Franklin of "Too Many Cooks" Fame](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/25/just-one-more-thing-about-emily-franklin-of-too-many-cooks-fame/) - She's got an unbelievably gorgeous, jealousy-inducing, I'd-love-to-cook-there-just-once kitchen.This quote made me want to cook with her even more: "I’m a TERRIBLE recipe-follower. I break many rules and add things and am prone to skipping sifting." I've got a major girl-boner for Emily, apparently.And now, I'll shut up. Go buy the book already, ok? Except for
- [No, Really, Fitness Readers: What's Going On?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/23/no-really-fitness-readers-whats-going-on-2/) - A few days ago, I noticed a stream of visitors from an article I wrote for Fitness called Log On to Lose Weight. That's a wonderful thing, and I'm thrilled you're here. But what I'd love to know--what's driving me bananas--is why you're here NOW. That article is several years old. Did Fitness put it
- [No, Really, Fitness Readers: What's Going On?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/23/no-really-fitness-readers-whats-going-on/) - A few days ago, I noticed a stream of visitors from an article I wrote for Fitness called Log On to Lose Weight. That's a wonderful thing, and I'm thrilled you're here. But what I'd love to know--what's driving me bananas--is why you're here NOW. That article is several years old. Did Fitness put it
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Whaddya Got Fried Rice](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/23/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-whaddya-got-fried-rice/) - I’m a big believer in authenticity. Stephen and I (and now Harry) will trek far and wide for a real taste of a particular kind of food, from New Jersey (and Connecticut) hot dogs to New England donuts to the fresh mozzarella made by the 90something Italian lady around the corner. But frankly, when it
- [Parents Need to Eat, Too: The New Mom’s Pantry](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/21/parents-need-to-eat-too-the-new-moms-pantry/) - Yesterday was a momentous day for me: At 9:30 in the morning, my doorbell started ringing. In walked a parade (a short parade, but a parade nonetheless) of moms and children. Four moms, two infants, and a toddler, to be precise. These were my new pupils, the first students in my Parents Need to Eat,
- [Oh Ye of Little Faith](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/19/oh-ye-of-little-faith/) - Well, it appears some of my readers were skeptical. Someone, who shall remain nameless (cough cough Rachel cough), left a comment that struck me as somewhat challenging, perhaps even suggesting that I misled you, dear readers. That I didn’t have Harry, sweet angelic Harry (cough cough monster cough) pull the winners’ names from his hat.
- [Winners, We Have Winners!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/18/winners-we-have-winners/) - I'm going to write up a whole post later, complete with adorable pictures of Harry in his pjs, pulling names out of his hat, but since I know you're all waiting with baited breath I thought I should tell you: If you haven't already heard from me, you didn't win. So sorry.But stay tuned, because
- [There's Still Time to Subscribe and Win...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/17/theres-still-time-to-subscribe-and-win-2/) - Words to Eat By's first-ever book giveaway ends tonight at 8, but that means there's still time for you to enter! It's simple:1. Subscribe to Words to Eat By, using the link in the header above.2. Leave me a comment in this post, saying you've subscribed (and if you like, tell me what your concerns/issues
- [There's Still Time to Subscribe and Win...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/17/theres-still-time-to-subscribe-and-win/) - Words to Eat By's first-ever book giveaway ends tonight at 8, but that means there's still time for you to enter! It's simple:1. Subscribe to Words to Eat By, using the link in the header above.2. Leave me a comment in this post, saying you've subscribed (and if you like, tell me what your concerns/issues
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Hail Mary Pasta](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/17/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-hail-mary-pasta/) - It’s 6:05. Stephen’s got Harry at the playground while I’m frantically working against tomorrow’s deadline. It’s also—finally—the official end of Passover. Harry’s constant refrain from the past week, “I want macaroni and meatballs” is playing in my head, so I dash into the kitchen and fill a pot with water. Salt it. Put on a
- [And as long as I'm a posting fiend...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/15/and-as-long-as-im-a-posting-fiend/) - Here's a link to my latest piece for WeightWatchers.com: Starting Your Own Garden.
- [Did Fitness Magazine Send You?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/15/did-fitness-magazine-send-you/) - This is pretty silly, but I'm seeing a sudden influx of visitors to Words to Eat By thanks to an article I wrote for Fitness a few years ago, called Log on to Lose Weight. Since the article isn't exactly new, I'm puzzled. If you're one of the people stopping by, first of all: Welcome!
- [And as long as I'm a posting fiend...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/15/and-as-long-as-im-a-posting-fiend-2/) - Here's a link to my latest piece for WeightWatchers.com: Starting Your Own Garden.
- [Subscribe to Words to Eat By & Win! (That's right, it's the first-ever giveaway on my little blog)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/15/subscribe-to-words-to-eat-by-win-thats-right-its-the-first-ever-giveaway-on-my-little-blog-2/) - In four-and-a-half years of blogging (give or take some time off for baby-rearing), Words to Eat By has never done a book giveaway. It’s about time, folks! Guess I was just waiting for the right book to come along. You may know that, in addition to writing for magazines and Web sites, I also write
- [Subscribe to Words to Eat By & Win! (That's right, it's the first-ever giveaway on my little blog)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/15/subscribe-to-words-to-eat-by-win-thats-right-its-the-first-ever-giveaway-on-my-little-blog/) - In four-and-a-half years of blogging (give or take some time off for baby-rearing), Words to Eat By has never done a book giveaway. It’s about time, folks! Guess I was just waiting for the right book to come along. You may know that, in addition to writing for magazines and Web sites, I also write
- [Cottage Pie: Parents Need to Eat, TooSM](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/14/cottage-pie-parents-need-to-eat-toosm/) - Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about parenthood. The challenges of it, the responsibilities that come with it, and the rewards that make me forget all about Harry’s insane toddler behavior (please tell me this will happen someday!). I start teaching my cooking class, called Parents Need to Eat, Too, next week—I’ll report back, not
- [Pardon My Appearance... FIXED!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/13/pardon-my-appearance-fixed/) - Nothing to see here. Move along... Though as long as you're here, how about subscribing to Words to Eat By, using the handy link I just added to the header above? I've been fiddling with my template, to add the handy link for subscribers (hint hint) to the header. And somehow I've messed everything up!
- [Tis the Season...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/04/07/tis-the-season/) - ...to eat matzo. Until you're so sick of the cardboardy stuff you can't bear the thought of it. In honor of my favorite (not) holiday of the year, here's a piece I wrote for Weight Watchers about Easy Passover Lunches. Practically matzo-free!
- [Parents Need to Eat, TooSM: Cooking for New Parents](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/03/26/parents-need-to-eat-toosm-cooking-for-new-parents/) - My dear, dear readers, I've had a brainstorm. This morning I taught a cooking class, for the moms group from Harry's preschool, and I had a blast. I'm pretty sure the other moms did, too. In fact, at the end of the class, one of the moms turned to me and said, "You should do
- [Cornmeal Jag, Featuring Sweet Corn Coffeecake with Mixed Berries](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/02/20/cornmeal-jag-featuring-sweet-corn-coffeecake-with-mixed-berries/) - Did you ever go on an ingredient jag? It’s sort of like a crying jag, where you can’t stop crying no matter how hard you try, and it feels kinda good? Well, lately I’ve been on a jag with cornmeal. There’s just something about that crackly little oomph it gives to baked goods, the hint
- [Crunchy Granola Bars, Barefoot Contessa-Style](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/02/10/crunchy-granola-bars-barefoot-contessa-style/) - It’s no secret: I’m an Ina Garten fan. I’ve blogged about her roasted eggplant spread, her roasted Brussels sprouts, her barbecue sauce, her turkey meatloaf, her popovers, her Paris cookbook, even how she inspired me to live a life devoted to food. So you shouldn’t be surprised that I’m blogging an Ina recipe once more.
- [A New Meme: Take 5 Tuesdays](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/02/04/a-new-meme-take-5-tuesdays/) - Heard about this from Caryn Brown via Twitter, and it seems fun & quick (and I'm feeling guilty about not posting more often, and not doing one of those 25 Things notes on Facebook), so I thought I'd give it a whirl. Every Tuesday she'll be posting 5 questions. You answer them on your own
- [Bert’s (and Ernie’s, too, I’ll bet) Best Blueberry Oatmeal Bars](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/29/berts-and-ernies-too-ill-bet-best-blueberry-oatmeal-bars/) - When Harry was born, one of the more appropriate gifts we received was C Is for Cooking, a Sesame Street cookbook intended for parents and children to use together. Way back then, almost 2 1/2 years ago, it seemed impossible to imagine that Harry would ever be big enough to eat real food, never mind
- [Just as Easy as a Packet, But a Blazillion Times Better](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/26/just-as-easy-as-a-packet-but-a-blazillion-times-better/) - We’ve been on a bit of a cocoa rage here lately. Whenever we come in from a cold outing, Harry’s fixation kicks in—the pleas (which are generally accompanied by a plaintive and hard-to-resist “peeze”) don’t stop until hot (well, warm) cocoa is in junior’s insulated sippy. At first I was making it from scratch each
- [Cheap Healthy Good](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/21/cheap-healthy-good/) - I was just checking my stats and noticed an awful lot of traffic coming my way from Cheap Healthy Good, Kris's fantastic food blog. If you've never been there, GO! She's got a really smart setup, in which she posts according to a daily schedule:Monday: RecipeTuesday: Megalinks & City Kitchen Chronicles (bi-weekly)Wednesday: ArticleThursday: Favorites of
- [A Tale of Two Corn Muffins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/20/a-tale-of-two-corn-muffins/) - They were the best of muffins, they were the worst of muffins, they delighted me with their juicy blueberries, they tormented me with the heavy taste of whole wheat flour, their nearly-lacy tops crunched between my teeth, their leaden doughy insides stuck to the roof of my mouth, Harry ate his weight in minimuffins, Harry
- [Toddler Cookie Party](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/10/toddler-cookie-party/) - On New Year’s Eve, we had a wee party. Not a debauched, drunken, what-was-I-thinking kind of party. No, this was something a little gentler, a little more in line with my life these days. We had two of Harry’s buddies—and their moms (aka my friends)—over for some cookie baking. An hour or two before our
- [Slow-Cooker Black Beans](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/08/slow-cooker-black-beans/) - Here’s another of our slow-cooker favorites, one I forgot to mention the other day. We got hooked on black beans at Mamalu, a kids-oriented café in our neighborhood—they’re amazingly delicious there (though I’ve been told they use—don't tell Bittman—canned beans!). Back when Harry was smaller we spent a lot of time there, and it was
- [Eating with Your Eyes Doesn’t Always Work](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/03/eating-with-your-eyes-doesnt-always-work/) - When I worked (briefly) in the restaurant world, we spent a lot of time on presentation. The understanding was, you eat with your eyes first so each plate should appeal visually. Well, last night’s dinner sure looked pretty, didn’t it? That’s a big ol’ dish of Fettucine with Tomatoes and Crispy Capers you’re looking at,
- [I’m Baaa-aack… And I Brought Beef Stew](https://debbiekoenig.com/2009/01/02/im-baaa-aack-and-i-brought-beef-stew/) - beef stew Originally uploaded by debbieharrysmom So it’s not exactly a New Year’s Resolution, since I avoid them at all costs, but lately I’ve been missing Words to Eat By. I’m not sure anyone else has, but I thought it was time to start blogging again. Heck, what’s two+ years among friends? As the weather’s
- [Inspiration](https://debbiekoenig.com/2008/11/05/inspiration/) - I haven't blogged in a long, long time. Some of you have been kind enough to write me, to ask if I plan to resume any time soon. While I wish I could answer "Absolutely, yes!," I'm just not sure I'm up to it. But tonight I'm inspired. For the first time in a very
- [Random Notes (and Slow-Cooker Ratatouille)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2007/04/16/random-notes-and-slow-cooker-ratatouille/) - Taptaptap… Is anybody still out there? I know, I know, I’m a sorry excuse for a blogger. So life is pretty good around here, if extremely busy—Harry’s 7 1/2 months old and he’s become quite a pistol. We lucked out and got one of those happy babies you hear about but rarely see. He’s sitting
- [Press Sightings](https://debbiekoenig.com/2007/01/23/press-sightings/) - Been meaning to post these for a while--I have two new pieces up on WeightWatchers.com:Navigating the Gym will help newbies who know they need to start working out, but are too intimidated by what they think is behind the gym's doors.Holiday Feasts, Global Style (yeah, it's from last year) is just what it sounds like--a
- [“I’m a New Mom and I Have No Time to Cook” Turkey Chili](https://debbiekoenig.com/2007/01/09/im-a-new-mom-and-i-have-no-time-to-cook-turkey-chili/) - So, yeah. Harry’s over four months old and I’m still cooking only the simplest, most basic, most reliable things. Things I know are good. Things I don’t have to think about, or check very often, or worry if they sit on the stove and get cold while we’re putting Harry to bed, so they have
- [Harry Holidays, Everyone!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/12/16/harry-holidays-everyone/) - December snuck up on us, and already it's Harry Mose's first holiday season. Tomorrow we head over to my brother's in north Jersey for the big family Hanukkah party--Harry's first latkes!--and one week from today we hit Stephen's family in south Jersey for their huge Christmas celebration. So many presents! So much good food! And
- [Gifts of All Shapes and Sizes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/12/08/gifts-of-all-shapes-and-sizes/) - Today marks a special anniversary, a milestone I’m guessing most people don’t mark: One year ago today, I had surgery. Why is this noteworthy? Because it changed my life completely. Stephen and I had been trying to make a baby for almost a year and a half, we’d done Clomid, we’d done injectables with insemination,
- [Now We’re Cooking! (At last)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/11/11/now-were-cooking-at-last/) - Harry Mose will be eleven weeks old on Tuesday, and we seem to be finding our footing. He’s sleeping better (though I hesitate to type that, since I’m probably jinxing us) and smiling all.the.time. He’s begun to find his chubby little hands, so perfect for sucking on, and to appreciate toys. He’s even picked up
- [When Harry Met Sammy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/10/15/when-harry-met-sammy/) - It's been a while, hasn't it? Harry Mose is already almost seven weeks old, and things are just starting to take on something like a sense of normalcy. Stephen and I aren't getting much sleep, and Harry and I have had tons of problems with breastfeeding, but other than that our boy is thriving and
- [Welcome to the World, Harry Mose!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/09/04/welcome-to-the-world-harry-mose/) - On Tuesday, August 29, 2006, at 12:15 PM, our boy Harry Mose was born—just a smidge early, but not so early as to be considered premature. He weighed in at 6 pounds exactly, and measured 19 inches. And of course, he’s perfect and adorable and soft and sweet and oh.my.god he smells good and I’ve
- [Lemony Broccoli and Chickpea Pasta](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/06/20/lemony-broccoli-and-chickpea-pasta/) - There’s nothing like a busted refrigerator to make you appreciate technology, even the relatively low-tech variety. On Friday morning I went to prepare a big ol’ iced de-haf and discovered that instead of actual cubes, the ice trays held tiny slivers floating in individual baths of cold water. The frozen meat still had ice crystals—good
- [RIP Mose Kitty](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/06/12/rip-mose-kitty/) - On Friday we put down one of our two cats, Mose. He’s had a mysterious intestinal ailment for nearly two years—I’ve mentioned it before—and recently he’d been throwing up and having diarrhea multiple times a day. When healthy, Mose weighed over 11 pounds, but by the time we took him to the vet for one
- [Mom’s Super-Quick Cucumber Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/05/28/moms-super-quick-cucumber-salad/) - Stephen and I went to Costco the other day—my parents gave us a membership as an anniversary present last year, and it’s expiring this week. We didn’t exactly make the most of our membership (this was only our second trip, including the one when we activated it), but I thought it would be a good
- [Fish for Non-Fish Eaters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/05/20/fish-for-non-fish-eaters/) - Stephen hates fish. He’ll eat seafood—shrimp and lobster rolls, mainly—but since I grew up kosher that’s not in my vernacular and I have no interest in learning about it. (Admit it: doesn’t most shellfish just look like some variety of underwater insect? Have you ever looked at a crawfish? At least with bacon you can
- [Don Altobell, 1938–2006](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/05/13/don-altobell-1938-2006/) - Stephen’s father passed away on Sunday. He’d been in a long, slow decline from Multiple Sclerosis for more than 40 years. The Friday before, we got a call saying that Don had pneumonia—longtime readers may recall that he’s been in hospice care at home for over a year; back in September he had a stroke
- [The Chocolatiest, Quickest, Most Rewarding Treat for No Effort at All: Amazon Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/30/the-chocolatiest-quickest-most-rewarding-treat-for-no-effort-at-all-amazon-cake/) - Thank god for the internet, that’s all I can say. This afternoon I got a little stir-crazy—I’m just finishing one of my long-term on-site freelance gigs, which means I suddenly have my days free. I’ve got plenty to do: There’s the freelance stuff I can do in my pajamas; the apartment hasn’t had a real,
- [Mushroom Risotto, for Stephen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/27/mushroom-risotto-for-stephen/) - You know, risotto’s never been my bag. Don’t get me wrong, I like the taste of it just fine, quite a bit in fact, and the texture can be mighty comforting. But generally I find myself getting a little, how you say, bored with it when it’s all alone on my plate. In all my
- [Bring on the Chametz!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/20/bring-on-the-chametz/) - What does it say about me that I've been dreaming of a chewy, cheesy, greasy, salty slice of pizza for the last week? A short list of things I plan to eat in the near future: Pizza • pumpernickel bagel (scooped out, since the outside’s the best part) • pasta with a simple tomato-basil sauce
- [Acquisitions Department: My Life in France by Julia Child](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/19/acquisitions-department-my-life-in-france-by-julia-child/) - From the Introduction: “This is a book about some of the things I have loved most in life: my husband, Paul Child; la belle France; and the many pleasures of cooking and eating. It is also something new for me. Rather than a collection of recipes, I’ve put together a series of linked autobiographical stories,
- [Passover Salt Fix: Baked Potato Chips](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/14/passover-salt-fix-baked-potato-chips/) - I hate Passover (funny, I said the exact same thing last year). Not only do I get sick of matzo almost immediately, I have a tendency to not plan very well: In the weeks leading up to the first seder, I’ll consider whether or not I should hit a supermarket that has a well-stocked Passover
- [Raspberry Tunnel of Runny Lava Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/11/raspberry-tunnel-of-runny-lava-cake/) - It all started out well enough. Following the recipe for Raspberry Tunnel of Fudge Cake in Chocolate American Style by Lora Brody, I made a quick ganache with 8 oz of dark chocolate, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 1/3 cup of raspberry jam, then scooped it onto a ring stencil I’d traced on a
- [Press Sighting: Easy Passover Lunches](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/10/press-sighting-easy-passover-lunches/) - A piece I wrote for WeightWatchers.com, about work-friendly, diet-friendly, kosher-for-Passover lunches, went live today. You can read it here.
- [From Beef Wellington to Hot Pastrami in Five Short Blocks](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/09/from-beef-wellington-to-hot-pastrami-in-five-short-blocks/) - For his birthday dinner, Stephen really wanted to try Beef Wellington—he’d read about it somewhere and the curiosity had been burning for months. (Between his cholesterol issues and my dietary ones, it’s not exactly the kind of thing we dine on regularly.) So I did some research on Menupages (gotta love that find-a-food search, but
- [Raspberry Bannock Scones (Thanks, Luisa!)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/04/08/raspberry-bannock-scones-thanks-luisa/) - Stephen’s birthday is tomorrow, and when I asked him what kind of cake he wants, he said it should be something with chocolate and raspberry. The recipe I’m making, a Raspberry Tunnel of Fudge Cake, calls for two ingredients I don’t generally have around: buttermilk and raspberry jam. In anticipation of my baking, Stephen picked
- [Press Sighting](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/03/26/press-sighting/) - I've got another article in Fitness magazine, page 74 of the April issue. For this one I interviewed a slew of experts about tools to overcome those little setbacks that can derail a diet: everything from a new beau who loves to eat to a pulled muscle that sidelines your workout routine. You can read
- [Why Things Have Been a Little Slow Around Here](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/03/25/why-things-have-been-a-little-slow-around-here/) - I'm due September 19! I've got so much to say about this (especially about the particular power of a certain husband's birthday gift), but I'm too pooped to collect my thoughts properly. One day soon, I'll be back with details. This blog is not totally dormant; it's just hoping for some second-trimester energy, which should
- [And Finally, the Kitchen Is Done](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/03/01/and-finally-the-kitchen-is-done/) - Not a lot of cooking going on here lately—Stephen’s been laying a new kitchen floor, the last remaining project in our DIY kitchen renovation, which I first blogged about OVER A YEAR AGO. Last night when I strolled in after work, he was attaching the new molding, the last piece of the puzzle. It’s done!
- [Good Things Come in Pink Packages](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/02/20/good-things-come-in-pink-packages/) - Stephen and a friend of his are installing our new kitchen floor today, one full year after we bought the materials (yay). In an effort to stay out of their hair I took a stroll in the neighborhood—between the blizzard and all my work, I haven’t taken a walk in a few weeks. Of course
- [On Tomato Soups and Blizzards (Sopa de Fideo Aguada)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/02/12/on-tomato-soups-and-blizzards-sopa-de-fideo-aguada/) - What is it about blizzards that makes me long to cook the tomato soups of my childhood? Last year around this time, a blizzard inspired me to “cookoon” with Quick Tomato-Rice Soup (plus a yummy frittata). And now here we are, in the Blizzard of 06, and again I’m soothing my soul with familiar flavors
- [Pre-Blizzard Spicy Hot Chocolate](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/02/11/pre-blizzard-spicy-hot-chocolate/) - They say we’re going to have a blizzard tonight. I’m so deep underground, scrambling to finish my freelance work, that I doubt it will make much difference to me—except that tomorrow I’ll look out the window longingly to a sparkly white snowscape, instead of the gray industrial wasteland/BQE traffic that is my current view. In
- [A Mac-&-Cheese-y Apology](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/02/06/a-mac-cheese-y-apology/) - Yeah, so I disappeared for a little while. It’s been just over a week since my last post, which isn’t ALL that long, but some of you (bless your hearts) have noticed and written to me, asking if everything’s ok. It is, very OK, but I got slammed with a huge new freelance project about
- [Stephen’s Raspberry Brownies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/28/stephens-raspberry-brownies/) - Here’s a guest entry, written by Stephen, my husband—yes, the famous “S” has asked to be de-anonymized. We had a dinner party last weekend (which I’m planning to write about, I promise), at which we served warm, cozy, comfort foods: butternut squash & apple soup, macaroni & cheese, salad, and for dessert, Stephen’s raspberry brownies.
- [Birth of a Restaurant: El Bocadito](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/26/birth-of-a-restaurant-el-bocadito/) - Take an informal poll about fantasies at the Greenmarket, Fairway, or Whole Foods, and one will pop up with impressive frequency (after winning the lottery, of course): The desire to open a restaurant. What food-obsessed New Yorker hasn’t dreamt about owning her own place, imagined throwing open the doors and watching the hungry (and attractive,
- [Well THAT Was Disappointing](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/16/well-that-was-disappointing/) - It didn’t take long: New York magazine has solved the great City Fakery mystery: It’s an offshoot of CB. Apparently owner Maury Rubin felt we weren’t giving enough props to his all-organic ingredients, so he built a bakery where even the walls are made from organic materials. Yes, it’s a giant, smug, greener-than-thou lecture wrapped
- [In Which a Trip to Trader Joe’s Leads to Black Lentil Stew](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/12/in-which-a-trip-to-trader-joes-leads-to-black-lentil-stew/) - Trader Joe’s rocks my world. Now, maybe if I lived near one it wouldn’t be as thrilling to walk through those automatic doors (and heck, it looks like someday soon we’ll have one on 14th Street, right on the L line) but for now, every time we hit one my shopping cart becomes a mini
- [So I'm Not the Only One...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/06/so-im-not-the-only-one/) - Today Kelli over at Lovescool wrote about the suspiciously City Bakery-like cookies at the unmarked storefront on First Avenue--the same guys I blogged about last year. A comment posted on her entry sent me to a recent discussion at Chowhound, where the bizarre denial of any CB connection is being debated as we speak... Apparently
- [Did Somebody Say “Chicken Chili”?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/06/did-somebody-say-chicken-chili/) - Here’s a recipe I’ve been toying with lately. I’m pretty satisfied with the results—more than satisfied, actually. I’m in love with the results! If I do say so myself, this chicken chili kicks some serious ass. The original inspiration was the Turkey Chipotle Chili in The Gourmet Cookbook, but after all my toying with it
- [So I'm Not the Only One...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/06/so-im-not-the-only-one-2/) - Today Kelli over at Lovescool wrote about the suspiciously City Bakery-like cookies at the unmarked storefront on First Avenue--the same guys I blogged about last year. A comment posted on her entry sent me to a recent discussion at Chowhound, where the bizarre denial of any CB connection is being debated as we speak... Apparently
- [In Which My Hairdresser's Broken Ankle Leads to a Fab New Korean Restaurant—in Williamsburg, No Less](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/04/in-which-my-hairdressers-broken-ankle-leads-to-a-fab-new-korean-restaurant-in-williamsburg-no-less/) - A few weeks after my surgery, I realized that my hair was something of a disgrace. Not just because I’d become a housebound sloth with perpetual bedhead—no, it was shaggy and unruly and looking distinctly like an overgrown privet hedge. I called Victoria, my hairdresser of ten years; a few hours at her one-woman midtown
- [In Which My Hairdresser's Broken Ankle Leads to a Fab New Korean Restaurant—in Williamsburg, No Less](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/04/in-which-my-hairdressers-broken-ankle-leads-to-a-fab-new-korean-restaurant-in-williamsburg-no-less-2/) - A few weeks after my surgery, I realized that my hair was something of a disgrace. Not just because I’d become a housebound sloth with perpetual bedhead—no, it was shaggy and unruly and looking distinctly like an overgrown privet hedge. I called Victoria, my hairdresser of ten years; a few hours at her one-woman midtown
- [Must Be a Lot of New Year's Resolutions at Play...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/02/must-be-a-lot-of-new-years-resolutions-at-play-2/) - A curious thing happened here at Words to Eat By today: Several hundred people stopped by the site. Now, that in itself isn't unusual at all. But what is unusual is what drove them here--a google search on "The Biggest Loser." Who would've guessed that of all 3,190,000 sites that mention it, this little ol'
- [Must Be a Lot of New Year's Resolutions at Play...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2006/01/03/must-be-a-lot-of-new-years-resolutions-at-play/) - A curious thing happened here at Words to Eat By today: Several hundred people stopped by the site. Now, that in itself isn't unusual at all. But what is unusual is what drove them here--a google search on "The Biggest Loser." Who would've guessed that of all 3,190,000 sites that mention it, this little ol'
- [There Are Signs, and Then There Are Ginormous Blinking Neon SIGNS](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/31/there-are-signs-and-then-there-are-ginormous-blinking-neon-signs/) - I woke up this morning, as I often do, vaguely dissatisfied with my weight-loss efforts (or more correctly, the lack thereof in recent months). It occurred to me that exactly eleven years ago today, on December 31, 1994, I joined Weight Watchers for the thousandth and last time—I say “the last time” because I was
- [Sesame Twists: A Good Way to Use That Leftover Sour Cream](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/30/sesame-twists-a-good-way-to-use-that-leftover-sour-cream/) - This’ll be quick, since I’m buried in freelance work and all I’m doing is procrastinating… Got leftover sour cream now that you’ve gorged on latkes? This recipe, adapted slightly from January’s Gourmet, is just the thing. They’re super-easy, and the end result is tender and soft, with a very mild flavor. To my taste, they’re
- [Christmas Morning Coffee Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/25/christmas-morning-coffee-cake/) - The holiday spirit has eluded us this year. Because of my surgery, we missed both S’s family Christmas get-together and my own family’s Hanukkah one. We didn’t even bother with a tree, which longtime readers will realize is kind of a big deal for this Christmas-loving Jew. S and I exchanged our gifts last night—we’re
- [The 40th Birthday Present Only a Husband Can Give](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/22/the-40th-birthday-present-only-a-husband-can-give/) - At midnight S walked into the bedroom grinning and bearing carefully-wrapped gifts. I saved the big one for last, tearing off the paper like a 4-year-old (I’m a bit over-the-top about birthdays, I think because mine comes so close to Christmas). Inside was a woven hamper. “It’s a fertility basket!” S said excitedly. Tucked inside
- [STRIKE!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/20/strike/) - Does it make me a bad person that the NYC transit workers just went on strike and all I can think about is how we'll make it to Cookshop on Thursday? It's my fortieth birthday, goddammit, and I want a freaking fabulous meal without a buncha tsuris getting there!
- [Christmas Marzipan at Fortunato Brothers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/18/christmas-marzipan-at-fortunato-brothers/) - Yesterday’s recovery walk took us to Fortunato Brothers bakery, one of the handful of old-school Italian holdouts near Williamsburg’s Graham Avenue. Their pignoli cookies and tarts are out of this world, and it has become my go-to place for gelato in warmer months. Something like $1.75 for a small—with two flavors—makes it one of the
- [Today’s Small Pleasure: Modicana Chili Chocolate](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/17/todays-small-pleasure-modicana-chili-chocolate/) - As I dip my toe into the pool of life post-surgery, I find that the thing I look forward to most each day is my little perambulation around the neighborhood. Each time I head in a different direction, and each time I’m capable of walking a little further without tiring. And after yesterday’s treat, I’ve
- [Mostarda: Good for What Ails You](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/15/mostarda-good-for-what-ails-you/) - My surgery was a week ago today, and slowly but surely I’m emerging from the trough of pain and discomfort. Really, with the exception of Monday, when I thought for sure the surgeon had scattered X-Acto blades inside my belly, it hasn’t been too bad. Each day has been progressively better—it still hurts, but much
- [Happy 103rd, Little Gram!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/08/happy-103rd-little-gram/) - I'm guessing you probably can't read the text of this article, but it's all about S's great-grandmother. Little Gram turns 103 today! She's the only person I know who's still kicking past 90, and she's one of my favorite people in the world. When S and I had been dating for less than a year,
- [Colon Blow Update](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/07/colon-blow-update/) - It’s 3:00 now and to say the day’s been uneventful would be an understatement. It’s freaking boring as hell! I’ve been taking in gallons of clear liquids, in the form of water, chicken broth, jello, and a popsicle. Out of desperation I went for a walk in the shockingly cold sunshine, and took note of
- [Let the Colon Blow Begin](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/07/let-the-colon-blow-begin/) - Today is my pre-op Colon Blow, so in an effort to distract (read: torture) myself I thought I’d provide some running commentary (read: self-pity) on the day’s events. No, I won’t be taking my laptop with me into the bathroom, but I will be recording my thoughts—and perhaps, hallucinations—as the day progresses and I get
- [PSA: The Food Blog Awards 2005](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/05/psa-the-food-blog-awards-2005/) - Yesterday I got an email from my mom with a link to the Weblog Awards, and all she had to say about them was "Why is there no food blog category?" (And she added a few dozen extra question marks, just for emphasis.) Before I could even craft an adequately thoughtful response, Kate at the
- [Oh My Once, Oh My Twice, Oh My Oh Chicken Soup with(out) Rice](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/05/oh-my-once-oh-my-twice-oh-my-oh-chicken-soup-without-rice/) - As part of my Olympian preparations for Wednesday’s torture (leading up to Thursday’s entirely different torture), I made a big pot of chicken soup over the weekend—clear broths being one of the few things I’ll be allowed to ingest, I thought it would be better to have some high-test homemade stuff on hand. It’s incredibly
- [On Surprise Parties, Fat Pants, and a Little Something Called a “Fleet Prep Kit”](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/02/on-surprise-parties-fat-pants-and-a-little-something-called-a-fleet-prep-kit/) - On Monday S wandered into my office, sat down on the futon, and motioned for me to join him there. He put his arm around me, and gently broke the news: My surprise 40th birthday party was canceled. Since I had no idea he was planning anything (see: surprise party), the announcement that it wasn’t
- [Have You Eaten at The Queen’s Hideaway Yet?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/12/01/have-you-eaten-at-the-queens-hideaway-yet/) - I was just over at this Greenpoint gem, chatting with the chef-owner, Liza Queen. Now that the weather’s turned cold (and the greenmarket offerings are slimming), she’s been having a lot of fun with sturdier, heartier fare. And she’s got two big developments: First, they now accept reservations! That’s big news since waits were approaching
- [A Quick (and Late) Thanksgiving Recap](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/30/a-quick-and-late-thanksgiving-recap/) - We’ve been home for almost a week now and I’m beginning to doubt I’ll ever find the time to write up our fantabulous Thanksgiving feast in a way that will do it justice, so instead I’ll give you the short version. I suspect you’ll be grateful since we’re all so turkeyed out at this point,
- [Just in Time for Overeating Season: Diet Blogs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/23/just-in-time-for-overeating-season-diet-blogs/) - If you’ve found Words to Eat By through my feature in the January issue of Fitness, welcome! (If you’re a regular reader: pick up the January Fitness and turn to page 62. That piece on diet blogs? I wrote it.) Here’s a quick list of links to the diet blogs I wrote about—they’re all smart,
- [A Slew of New Links](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/21/a-slew-of-new-links/) - It's been far too long since I updated my lists o' links. The other day, I finally added a bunch more, including:All Cupcakes, All the Time: What more do I need to say?Mona's Apple: Lots of great NYC restaurant stuffSnack: This one's fairly high-profile, full of great insidery info on the restaurant worldWilliamsburger: Another food
- [Five Points Applesauce Muffins: Fa-Bu-Lous](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/19/five-points-applesauce-muffins-fa-bu-lous/) - Last night’s reading before bed: Brunch: 100 Recipes from Five Points Restaurant, whose acquisition I blogged about just the other day. I drifted off to sleep on a cloud of eggs baked with black beans, lemon-ricotta pancakes, and these glorious muffins. And when I woke up this morning, I knew what I had to do:
- [This Just in (from Mom): Saucy Chocolate Fudge Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/19/this-just-in-from-mom-saucy-chocolate-fudge-cake/) - In response to my post about Aztec Hot Chocolate Pudding Cake, I got an email from my mother, with her recipe for the pareve chocolate pudding cake (which is actually called Saucy Chocolate Fudge Cake, not Fudgy Chocolate Pudding Cake as I wrote last night). If any of you are kosher, this makes a wonderful
- [Sooooo Much Better Than It Looks: Aztec Hot Chocolate Pudding](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/18/sooooo-much-better-than-it-looks-aztec-hot-chocolate-pudding/) - If you haven’t noticed, I’m a bit of a sweet freak. Even if it’s just a couple of Teddy Grahams or a 100-calorie pack of faux Chips Ahoy, I’ll have something sweet pretty much every day. But last night I wasn’t in the mood for crunch. I still wanted sweet, of course, but (I can’t
- [A Whole Different Kind of Thanksgiving](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/17/a-whole-different-kind-of-thanksgiving/) - This year, for the first time ever, I won’t be at my family's for Thanksgiving. It’s a little shocking to think that I’ve been eating the same turkey, the same stuffing, the same homemade cranberry sauce, the same apple & pumpkin pies, for nearly 40 years, but unless I’m having a brain fart and forgetting,
- [Acquisitions Department: Brunch](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/16/acquisitions-department-brunch/) - I came home from work to find that Amazon had delivered: Brunch : 100 Recipes from Five Points Restaurant, by Marc Meyer and Peter Meehan. Yes, you read that right—I actually bought a book. It’s a rare and unusual occurrence for me, since eighteen years in the publishing industry has set me up with book
- [Yup, It’s Autumn: Pumpkin Bread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/13/yup-its-autumn-pumpkin-bread/) - One day maybe five years ago, my friend and former colleague L brought a loaf of pumpkin bread to work; it was devoured in about sixty seconds—with our entire department fighting over who got the last slice. Of course I begged for the recipe. The original version called for 3 cups of sugar and a
- [Perfect for a Cool Fall Morning: Baked Apple Compote](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/12/perfect-for-a-cool-fall-morning-baked-apple-compote/) - There are some days, especially at this time of year, when you just have too many apples. So what do you do? You make this simple, warm, cozy dish. It’s much less work than a pie—no crust!—and incredibly versatile. Try it on oatmeal, on pancakes or French toast, on ice cream, or by itself—I even
- [“It’s Pronounced ‘Nish,’ Honey.”](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/11/its-pronounced-nish-honey/) - S and I were on a King of the Hill kick a while back, and one of my favorite episodes was the one in which an authentic Jewish deli opens up in their not-terribly-cosmopolitan Texas town. Bobby, Hank and Peggy’s prepubescent son, becomes overly fond of chopped chicken liver (“I love it! It’s meat I
- [Coincidence? Hardly Seems Possible](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/07/coincidence-hardly-seems-possible/) - So tonight I decided to burn a few extra calories and walk to a subway stop across town, from 18th & 6th to 14th & 1st. As is my wont, the whole way I kept an eye out for interesting food developments--a new restaurant, a particularly good-looking slice of pizza--but fought the urge to stop
- [Whole Wheat Fig & Pecan Bread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/06/whole-wheat-fig-pecan-bread/) - It’s been a really long time since I baked bread. Years ago, when ICE was still Peter Kump, I took a three-week bread course there. We learned everything from utilitarian—though still flavorful—sandwich loaves like the Pullman to a gorgeous, golden semolina-raisin bread. My favorites, though, were the rustic, hand-formed ones we learned in our middle
- [Apparently, There Is Such a Thing as TOO Healthy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/05/apparently-there-is-such-a-thing-as-too-healthy/) - This morning I made apple-walnut scones. The recipe was low-fat, which was good, and called for wheat germ, which was also good, but it also used 2 cups of white flour, which isn’t so good. I figured I could make a good thing even better by swapping in 1 cup of whole wheat flour for
- [Variation: Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Butternut Squash, and Sage](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/11/01/variation-pasta-with-roasted-cauliflower-butternut-squash-and-sage/) - Just a quick note since I’ve got no business blogging when I should be doing my freelance work (and no pic, since my digital camera’s on loan to my brother right now)… Tonight S and I made a variation on one of my favorite inventions from last fall/winter, Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Figs, and Mint.
- [Vegetable Couscous (with Chicken, This Time)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/29/vegetable-couscous-with-chicken-this-time/) - The season for soups and stews has officially begun, and I couldn’t be more excited. As much as I love summer with all its fresh produce, by Labor Day I find myself dreaming about meals that I can make ahead, something I can stick on the burner or in the oven and forget about for
- [Note to Self: Always Read Recipes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/29/note-to-self-always-read-recipes/) - This morning I woke up and felt like making pancakes. Out came the container of Oatmeal Pancake mix, which I discovered held just enough for this morning. Since the batter has to rest for ten minutes before cooking, I thought I'd throw together another batch of mix, so it would be ready for next time.
- [Words to Eat By Turns 1! (In which a celebration turns into a rant against the health-food police)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/24/words-to-eat-by-turns-1-in-which-a-celebration-turns-into-a-rant-against-the-health-food-police/) - My little blog’s first anniversary lurked in the back of my head for most of October. In quiet moments I mused about how I would mark it; something special was called for, a new recipe of truly impressive dimensions—some witty twist on the birthday cake, perhaps. Last week S suggested I make a pizza from
- [Post 23, Line 5](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/23/post-23-line-5/) - I’ve been tagged twice for this meme now, so I figure I’d better just do it already. Have you heard about it? The rules are: Dig into your blog’s archives and find the 23rd entry, the fifth line. Contemplate it; see what, if any, significance it holds, and write about it. Tag five more people
- [Dinner for One: The Barefoot Contessa’s Roasted Brussels Sprouts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/20/dinner-for-one-the-barefoot-contessas-roasted-brussels-sprouts/) - Is there anything more gorgeous, more heart-warming, more inviting, than an abundant plateful of roasted Brussels sprouts? You can keep your sunsets, your spectacular vistas, your museums filled with Art. We’re talking Brussels sprouts, my friends; at this time of year there ain’t nothing prettier. Just one look at those crispy outer leaves is enough
- [Best Bargain in Town: Kitchen 22](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/19/best-bargain-in-town-kitchen-22/) - When you’re looking for boldly flavored, perfectly fresh, and vibrant American food at an incredibly reasonable price (with some lovely wines, too), you can’t go wrong at Charlie Palmer’s Kitchen 22. Three courses for $25, people! For this caliber of food, that’s usually the price of an entrée alone here in NYC.The space itself is
- [Look What the Book Fairy Brought!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/18/look-what-the-book-fairy-brought/) - I am an unrepentant Martha Stewart fan, having worked for years marketing her books. Yeah, perhaps she’s not all sugary sweet all the time, but the woman knows what she’s doing—and if she doesn’t, she hires the best people she can find who do. Martha Stewart's Baking Handbook will be released on November 1. Lucky
- [Taking the Night Off: Spaghetti alla Puttanesca](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/15/taking-the-night-off-spaghetti-alla-puttanesca/) - My husband is a man of many delightful attributes: He often laughs out loud—a full-throated, no-holds-barred guffaw—when reading a book. Metaphors roll off his tongue (in our very early days, when we communicated mostly via email, he made me swoon by complaining that his upright vacuum cleaner “had the build and muscle of Audrey Hepburn”).
- [The Fertile Pudding (We Hope): Potato Kugel](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/12/the-fertile-pudding-we-hope-potato-kugel/) - Say what you will about us Jews, if there’s one culinary realm where we really excel, it’s starch. All those years of poverty, of moving from country to country, shtetls and ghettos, often in the coldest climes, led to some mighty tasty uses for humble ingredients like potatoes and grains. Think about it: kasha varnishkes,
- [Sneak Peek at the New Year: Chocolate Honey Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/03/sneak-peek-at-the-new-year-chocolate-honey-cake/) - If you’re a member of my family, here’s a look at tonight’s dessert: Tonight is the start of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year. S and I will be heading to my parents’ home for a big, celebratory dinner. On the menu: Round Challah (one with raisins, one plain) Apples Dipped in Honey Gefilte Fish
- [More Complicated Than It Looks: Tabbouleh](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/02/more-complicated-than-it-looks-tabbouleh/) - For the last month or so, our neighborhood’s been watching with giddy anticipation as a new natural foods market was built next to the subway exit. Now, maybe where you live a new market isn’t that big a deal, but here in Williamsburg, the land of louche and surreptitiously ambitious restaurants, bars, and so-hip-it-hurts clothing
- [Baking for Breakfast: Low-Fat Chive & Pepper Biscuits](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/10/01/baking-for-breakfast-low-fat-chive-pepper-biscuits/) - I loves me some biscuits. The flakiness, the butter melting into a freshly-baked split, the golden crust… Ahhhh. Problem is, I’ve always been a little afraid of baking them myself. First, they just seem too simple to be easy, if that makes sense. The technique is the thing when you’ve only got a few humble
- [Orange Cauliflower?!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/25/orange-cauliflower/) - Found these pretty babies at the farmstand in south Jersey today (it’s between the pretzel place and my father-in-law’s house). I’ve never seen orange cauliflower before, have you? They were only 75 cents each, so I figured it was worth a shot—I assume they’re going to taste just like the regular variety. When we got
- [Baked Oatmeal](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/24/baked-oatmeal/) - I woke up shivering this morning, and smiled. Overnight, fall had arrived. I snuggled up against my husband, pulled the covers up to my shoulders, and drifted back to sleep, dreaming of warm, comforting breakfasts. S and I first tasted baked oatmeal at the Brook Farm Inn, back in February. I had meant to get
- [Pretzel Nirvana: Pennsauken Mart Pretzels](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/22/pretzel-nirvana-pennsauken-mart-pretzels/) - When I slyly alluded to our hunt for the famed soft pretzels of south Jersey last week, I piqued the interest of one smart reader (who turned out to be the husband of a friend). Did we find the pretzels, he demanded? Indeed we did! Cass’s Pretzels sold freshly baked soft pretzels in the Pennsauken
- [Taming the Wild Spice Rack (Garam Masala Chicken)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/20/taming-the-wild-spice-rack-garam-masala-chicken/) - My spice rack was looking pretty good not too long ago: But that was before I started ordering like a freak from Penzeys. In no time, my orderly spice rack resembled the inside of my closet—jumbled and borderline dangerous, with bottles of all different shapes and sizes shoved in wherever I could find a sliver
- [Order Up! Facon and Eggs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/18/order-up-facon-and-eggs/) - Can you smell that bacon sizzling in the pan, the smoky promise it makes? Um, me neither. In fact, I’ve never cooked bacon in my life. I grew up kosher, and bacon is pretty much the poster child for Unkosher Deliciousness. Sure, pepperoni pizza is a double-whammy since it combines pork products (Not Kosher), which
- [Did Somebody Say “Binge”?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/16/did-somebody-say-binge/) - Raise your hand if the first thing you thought when you saw this article was Great, now I can eat the whole package! Yeah, me too. If City Bakery’s chocolate chip cookies are my upscale downfall, Chips Ahoy are my . . . downscale downfall? Seriously, I’m not sure I can allow these babies into
- [Sometimes You Just Don’t Feel Like Cooking (Artichoke Ravioli with Herb Sauce)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/16/sometimes-you-just-dont-feel-like-cooking-artichoke-ravioli-with-herb-sauce/) - Sometimes stress makes me want to cook (well, bake). And sometimes it makes me want to do anything but cook. This week has been much more of the latter, so Tuesday night we ate out and Wednesday night we ordered in. By Thursday night, I still didn’t feel much like cooking, but our wallets were
- [Lemons: Lemonade: Easy Gingersnap Peach Crisp](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/12/lemons-lemonade-easy-gingersnap-peach-crisp/) - We went down to south Jersey again this weekend, to visit S’s dad. It’s all so draining, both physically and emotionally, that we’ve begun to look for other “reasons” to make the trip—little upsides to cheer us through difficult periods. This time it involved food. On our way home, we drove off in search of
- [New Product Alert: Peppadew Splash-On Sauce (with recipes for Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Breasts and Tomato-Peppadew Salsa)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/12/new-product-alert-peppadew-splash-on-sauce-with-recipes-for-herb-crusted-baked-chicken-breasts-and-tomato-peppadew-salsa/) - It was only a matter of time. As soon as I saw jarred Peppadew* peppers I should’ve realized that line extensions were sure to follow. And there it was, atop the deli case in the supermarket this afternoon: Peppadew™ Sweet Piquanté Pepper Splash-On Sauce. S spotted it—not only is he credited with introducing me to
- [Food Is Love: Oatmeal Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/07/food-is-love-oatmeal-cookies/) - It’s excruciating, waiting. S and I have some practice at it, after so many months of waiting for a positive pregnancy test, but nothing compares to what we’re going through now. We’re waiting for S’s father to pass away. Don has had multiple sclerosis for 42 years. One of the first things S told me
- [Chipotle Turkey Burgers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/09/05/chipotle-turkey-burgers/) - Food is love. I’ve said it before, and in the last few days I’ve heard it repeatedly. Our ongoing family emergency took a turn for the worse this week, and S and I hurried back to south Jersey. After two nights sleeping on floors and seven straight meals in restaurants (mostly of the diner variety),
- [A Mother Recipe: Marinated Roasted Peppers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/28/a-mother-recipe-marinated-roasted-peppers/) - Right now I’m reading The Making of a Chef: Mastering Heat at the Culinary Institute by Michael Ruhlman. First published nearly a decade ago (I picked it up recently at a used bookstore in Maine), it’s the story of how Ruhlman, a journalist, fared at the CIA—he enrolled intending to write the book, so he
- [Quick Weight Watchers Update](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/27/quick-weight-watchers-update/) - I lost 2.8 pounds!I've missed every meeting since my Exile in Fatville post--for a variety of reasons, all legitimate--so I was a little nervous. Usually missing meetings does not lead to good results. But I actually managed to stay fairly focused on what I was eating, and hit the gym five times a week.Phew. I'm
- [A Greekish Orzo-Tomato Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/27/a-greekish-orzo-tomato-salad/) - And again, it started with the tomatoes. I came back from the farmer’s market this afternoon with six beauts: two each of yellow, regular ol’ red, and Cherokee purples. As usual, I had no idea what I planned to do with them, but I did know that tomorrow morning I’m getting on a scale at
- [Variations on a Theme: Two Salads with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Herbs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/22/variations-on-a-theme-two-salads-with-cucumber-tomatoes-and-herbs/) - Lately I’ve been struggling with a certain ennui regarding the overwhelming abundance of tomatoes at the farmer’s market. On the one hand, I feel I should be sampling every variety, scarfing down the juicy, rosy globes while the getting’s good, but on the other hand . . . eh. They’re just not exciting me. This
- [Broiled (or Grilled) Ravioli](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/21/broiled-or-grilled-ravioli/) - And now, it’s time for another installment from my husband and guest writer, S: As I wrote in my prior guest appearance, I was raised on Italian food. Well, mostly spaghetti, with wonderful homemade sauce. About once every two months, my mother would make ravioli, which was a real cause for celebration. Round or square,
- [A PSA for Brooklynites: NEVER USE BROOKLYN LOCKSMITH, AKA SPEEDWAY](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/16/a-psa-for-brooklynites-never-use-brooklyn-locksmith-aka-speedway/) - Feel free to pass this on to anyone and everyone—these people have really pissed me off, and it’s time to use the power of the Internet…Two weeks ago the front-door lock broke and we were literally trapped in the apartment, so I called Brooklyn Locksmith out of the yellow pages (they also do business as
- [Corn, Zucchini, and Tomato Pie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/15/corn-zucchini-and-tomato-pie/) - On Thursday we were summoned, via an emergency phone call, down to south Jersey again. The family emergency continues, sadly—I don’t mean to be so oblique about it, I’m just struggling with the appropriate way to write about recent events. At some point soon I do intend to fill you all in on what’s happening.
- [Food Is Love: Cold Cucumber Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/14/food-is-love-cold-cucumber-soup/) - S has been having a hard time recently—the family emergency I mentioned last week was his, and it continues—so I wanted to do something to cheer him up. Many times (well, more than a few) he’s mentioned his fondness for cold cucumber soup, its velvety crispness, its refreshing chill. Problem is, one of the main
- [Summer in a Bowl: A Quick Sauté of Corn, Tomato, and Zucchini](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/10/summer-in-a-bowl-a-quick-saute-of-corn-tomato-and-zucchini/) - Just because we had some chicken the other night, it doesn’t mean I’ve lost interest in having all-veg dinners whenever possible. And as long as there’s such an abundance of good stuff out there, it’s so freakin’ easy to do. One of our favorite dishes last summer—it’s hard to imagine, but it was before I
- [Reintroducing Meat in a Most Delicious Way (With 3—Count Em, 3—Recipes)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/08/reintroducing-meat-in-a-most-delicious-way-with-3-count-em-3-recipes/) - Our Week of Vegetables ended abruptly with a phone call from S’s brother Friday morning, summoning us to south Jersey for a family emergency. It appears that everything’s going to be all right, but after a tense drive down in summer Friday traffic and a few hours spent with family, we weren’t exactly picky about
- [Tomato Tomato Tomato (A Week of Vegetables)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/02/tomato-tomato-tomato-a-week-of-vegetables/) - Yesterday was Day 3 of A Week of Vegetables. (I didn’t write about Day 2 because it consisted largely of leftovers from Day 1. Plus, I had a bizarre visitor springing out of the “fertile playground” [thanks, Santos!] above my kitchen ceiling, so I didn’t feel much like cooking.) But by Day 3, I was
- [Flora Update](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/08/01/flora-update/) - As Cathy from My Little Kitchen so wisely suggested regarding my, er, unusual growth, I contacted the Cornell Agricultural Extension. Steve Reiners, Associate Professor in Horticultural Sciences, was kind enough to reply: Dear Debbie, I have to admit, I have never seen anything like that. Seeds have an amazing way of finding ways to germinate.
- [Unusual Flora of Williamsburg, Brooklyn](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/31/unusual-flora-of-williamsburg-brooklyn/) - Our apartment is a tropical rainforest. There are several reasons why I believe this to be the case. Exhibit A: The sweet potato forest that sprung up in our pantry recently. Exhibit B: ALL our houseplants have died in the last year—even the cactus, the last survivor, has been dropping limbs at an alarming rate.
- [A Week of Vegetables for Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/31/a-week-of-vegetables-for-dinner/) - After yet another disappointing Saturday morning at Weight Watchers (I stayed the same, even though last Sunday’s dinner at The Queen’s Hideaway was my only real splurge), S asked if there was anything he could do to help—he’d already agreed not to bring any kind of junk food into the house, and he’s been going
- [The Queen at the Farmer’s Market](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/30/the-queen-at-the-farmers-market/) - This morning at our local farmer’s market I ran into Liza Queen, chef-owner of The Queen’s Hideaway, a new restaurant in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. I wrote about it for Time Out before she opened, but dragged my feet about actually getting over there to try Liza’s cooking. But I mentioned it to Peter Meehan, who writes
- [A Fizzy, Frosty, Fruity, Freeze](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/29/a-fizzy-frosty-fruity-freeze/) - So I’m sick. I caught the sore throat/cough/cold bug that’s been going around—S had it last week and I thought I'd dodged the bullet once he recuperated, but no such luck. Today is day three, and I’ve had it up to here with Halls sugar free black cherry lozenges, mint tea, and soup. I’m hungry,
- [Braised Chicken with Artichoke Hearts, Mushrooms, and Pappadew Peppers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/26/braised-chicken-with-artichoke-hearts-mushrooms-and-pappadew-peppers/) - After this weekend’s pity party, I’ve recovered nicely, thanks to all of you (and some gym-induced endorphins). We now return you to your regularly scheduled programming… I’ve been eating—and loving—pappadew peppers for quite a while, but it never occurred to me to cook with them. They’re so good raw (well, they’re sorta pickled, so they’re
- [Exile in Fatville](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/23/exile-in-fatville/) - After missing three consecutive meetings (two because of our Maine trip, and last Saturday we had a wedding), I finally went back to Weight Watchers today. I gained four pounds, bringing my net loss to—wait for it—half a pound. Since December. Right now I’m just fighting the urge to climb into bed, curl up in
- [Post-Vacation Joy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/21/post-vacation-joy/) - Now, I’m not the type of woman who goes around trumpeting her isn’t-he-incredible husband. Yes, occasionally I feel the need to get a little mushy, or show a pretty picture. But most of the time I’m quite restrained, I like to think. The other night, after the herbed orzo dinner, I wandered into the kitchen
- [One-Two-Three Herbed Orzo](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/20/one-two-three-herbed-orzo/) - Yeah, it’s hot. Too hot to turn on the oven. Too hot to do much more than lie down in a dark room and wait for the air conditioning to kick in. But still, we must eat, and there are only so many salads one can down before rebelling against their leafy virtue. On nights
- [Mainely Food, Part 1](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/15/mainely-food-part-1/) - I can’t figure out why I keep putting off writing about our trip, but it’s come to feel like a chore. Bizarre, isn’t it, how something that one does voluntarily and for fun can turn into a duty? There’s just so much going on lately—I’m finishing up one freelance gig and preparing to start another,
- [Mazel Tov! You Are Words to Eat By's 50,000th Visitor](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/14/mazel-tov-you-are-words-to-eat-bys-50000th-visitor/) - Well, one of you is, anyway. I was just looking at my stats, as I like to do from time to time--it gives me a warm, gooey feeling to see how many people have stopped by to see what's cooking in Williamsburg. Right now, the little ticker is hovering just under 50,000 unique visitors since
- [Mazel Tov! You Are Words to Eat By's 50,000th Visitor](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/13/mazel-tov-you-are-words-to-eat-bys-50000th-visitor-2/) - Well, one of you is, anyway. I was just looking at my stats, as I like to do from time to time--it gives me a warm, gooey feeling to see how many people have stopped by to see what's cooking in Williamsburg. Right now, the little ticker is hovering just under 50,000 unique visitors since
- [Post-Vacation Heartbreak](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/12/post-vacation-heartbreak/) - We’ve been home for three days and we’re still not completely unpacked, so when I spied the pair of bubble-wrapped packages on the kitchen table I smiled. Here was a chance to relive a bit of our trip while putting things in order: I’d wash and put away the two pieces of pottery I’d bought.
- [Back from Maine](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/07/10/back-from-maine/) - Just before two AM last night, S and I returned home from our week in Port Clyde, Maine. I'm still beat and a bit discombobulated so I don't have much to say yet, but in the meantime here's a bit of a tease--pictures from our trip, mostly of food. Over the next few days I
- [The Red Cat’s Quick Sauté of Zucchini, Almonds, and Pecorino](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/29/the-red-cats-quick-saute-of-zucchini-almonds-and-pecorino/) - I actually read Frank Bruni's review today--most Wednesdays I give up around the third paragraph, once I’ve confirmed yet again that he’s still.trying.too.hard. Reading the Bruni Digest is so much more satisfying. But I finished this one, because he reviewed The Red Cat, one of my favorite restaurants. And for once I not only understood
- [Now I've Seen Everything](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/26/now-ive-seen-everything-2/) - In an email newsletter I get about the publishing business, I just read that Ten Speed Press has acquired Hostess's The Twinkies Cookbook, "a compilation of recipes contributed by real people showing the many ways Twinkies can be used in cooking--both sweet and savory," to be published next spring.Sweet and savory? It's bad enough to
- [Now I've Seen Everything](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/27/now-ive-seen-everything/) - In an email newsletter I get about the publishing business, I just read that Ten Speed Press has acquired Hostess's The Twinkies Cookbook, "a compilation of recipes contributed by real people showing the many ways Twinkies can be used in cooking--both sweet and savory," to be published next spring. Sweet and savory? It's bad enough
- [Strawberry-Banana Muffins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/26/strawberry-banana-muffins/) - There are still so many gorgeous strawberries at the farmer’s market, I find it nearly impossible to avoid buying them by the armload. On Friday I picked up a quart at Union Square, and then yesterday I simply had to bring home another two (yes, quarts) at the much smaller market near my home. As
- [Sweet Potato Forest](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/24/sweet-potato-forest/) - OK, so apparently even sweet potatoes have a shelf life. This pair is probably two or three months old, and to be honest I forgot we even had them. When I went to grab a vidalia onion from our potato-n-onion basket just now, their spiny branches gave me quite a jolt--I swear, just a few
- [Strawberry-Rhubarb Bread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/19/strawberry-rhubarb-bread/) - After the success of the strawberry-rhubarb compote that went with last week’s chocolate polenta cake, I simply had to buy more of both items at the farmer’s market yesterday. But this morning, instead of simply making more of that yummy (and extremely diet-friendly) dish, I felt like baking. Something brunchy, Sunday morningish. As always, I
- [“Summer Friday” Salad: Sugar Snap Peas, Strawberries, Cucumber, and Pecorino](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/18/summer-friday-salad-sugar-snap-peas-strawberries-cucumber-and-pecorino/) - One of the greatest perks of working in book publishing is the longstanding practice of “Summer Friday”: Monday through Thursday, working hours are extended until 5:45, and on Friday quitting time is at 1:00. Anyone who does the math discovers that it’s a bargain in favor of the employees—especially since many of them work until
- [Sweets That Pack Heat](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/17/sweets-that-pack-heat/) - Here's a new clip from this week's Time Out New York, a piece I wrote about desserts spiked with chili. Researching this one did wonders for my Weight Watchers effort.
- [Dangerous, but Versatile: Herbed Polenta Triangles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/14/dangerous-but-versatile-herbed-polenta-triangles/) - It was to be a memorable, yet still blissfully simple, dinner, one I planned even before I left for work that morning: Herb-flecked triangles of polenta, served with a ragu of mushrooms. During the course of my polenta hunt for the cake I wrote about yesterday, I had accidentally picked up a package of the
- [Chocolate Polenta Cake with Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/12/chocolate-polenta-cake-with-strawberry-rhubarb-compote/) - I’m always on the lookout for new dessert recipes that meet certain criteria. They must be decadent-sounding, though not actually dangerous (I continue to hope that I’ll manage to follow Weight Watchers a little more faithfully). They must be different enough from the thousands of recipes I already have, in cookbooks and clipping files. If
- [News Flash](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/11/news-flash/) - And I do mean news. Words to Eat By gets its first ink! Clement at a la Cuisine was kind enough to email me a scan of this article by Shawna Wagman, which appeared in today’s Globe and Mail. It’s Canadian, which means I’m officially better-known internationally than I am in my own country. The
- [Suddenly Summer](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/11/suddenly-summer/) - Here in New York it went from being unseasonably cold (low 40s at night) to unseasonably, disgustingly, drippingly warm (high 80s) in the space of a week. That’s one sign of summer, for sure. But as far as I’m concerned, the one true indicator is the resurgence of my local farmer’s market. Every Saturday from
- [Chocolate Pizzelles](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/05/chocolate-pizzelles/) - Before I met S, I’d never tasted a pizzelle, the delicate, anise-scented Italian waffle cookie. It just wasn’t in my Jewish-American food vernacular. But S’s family is, as we all know, Italian-American; when he started inviting me along to clan get-togethers in south Jersey, I learned all about the cookies, quickly. His Big Gram would
- [Digital Camera Blues](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/05/digital-camera-blues/) - It looks like my digital camera died this morning. It's a Canon PowerShot A80, had it for about 18 months (so it's out of warranty). I made pizzelles this morning (I'll write that up later) and took some snaps to show you all, and when I turned the camera off the lens refused to retract.
- [Pot Luck with Roasted Eggplant Spread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/04/pot-luck-with-roasted-eggplant-spread/) - The other night I went to an after-work, all-girl pot luck dinner. It was all-girl because we met during a food writing course I took not too long ago, and the one guy who joined dropped out before the halfway point. Those of us who remained discovered that we really enjoyed each other’s company, so
- [Too Many Mushrooms?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/06/04/too-many-mushrooms/) - I just came back from the store, and when I went to put away the package of crimini mushrooms I just bought, I discovered I already had an unopened package in there. Now I've got two whole packages of mushrooms. I likes me some funghi, but I've never had this many at once at my
- [Artichoke and Parmesan Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/30/artichoke-and-parmesan-salad/) - I’ll admit it: I’m afraid of artichokes. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I lovelovelove to eat them. And I love the way they look—I even use an image of one on my business cards. I’ve just never been able to work up the courage to actually buy a fresh artichoke. They’re so…sharp. And forbidding. And
- [Opening Today in Greenpoint: The Queen’s Hideaway](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/28/opening-today-in-greenpoint-the-queens-hideaway/) - About a month ago, I wrote a short piece for Time Out New York about a charming-looking new restaurant, scheduled to open that week in Greenpoint. I really liked Liza Queen, the chef, and her menu sounded wonderful—simple, Greenmarket-driven, with a backyard smoker as the star of the show. I was really looking forward to
- [From Passionate Amateur to Smoothly Professional: Smoked BBQ](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/26/from-passionate-amateur-to-smoothly-professional-smoked-bbq/) - Just a few days ago I wrote about some incredible, authentic Texas bbq we were lucky enough to stuff ourselves with. Who’da thunk I’d have a second barbecue experience to share with you in the same week? As it happens, the other night S and I went to Smoked, a new spot in the East
- [Sunday Supper: Spaghetti with Turkey-Pesto Meatballs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/23/sunday-supper-spaghetti-with-turkey-pesto-meatballs/) - I was a little shocked to discover I hadn’t written about this yet—it’s one of my favorite makes-a-lot recipes. The original, from Epicurious, serves two. I’ve tripled the meatball portion of the recipe here, since as long as I’m getting my hands full of turkey-pesto goo I always make enough to freeze for another couple
- [Oh. My. God. Barbecue](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/22/oh-my-god-barbecue/) - Last night S and I went to a barbecue at the home of a guy he knows. This guy, M, is from Texas, as is his fiancée, V, and they take their 'cue mighty seriously. We’d been invited once or twice before but this was the first time we made it there; boy have we
- [Adventures in Recipe Testing, Part 2: In Which I Make Some “Scrummy” Chocolate Swirl Shortbread That Turns Out Pretty Crummy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/21/adventures-in-recipe-testing-part-2-in-which-i-make-some-scrummy-chocolate-swirl-shortbread-that-turns-out-pretty-crummy/) - Some time ago, I wrote about testing a spanakopita recipe for Leite’s Culinaria, and the disaster that ensued. Well, today I experienced round two. S and I are going to a barbecue tonight (look for a post about it tomorrow—these people take their ‘cue seriously so I’m expecting good things), so I thought I’d bake
- [The Top 10 Things Every New York Foodie Should Do](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/18/the-top-10-things-every-new-york-foodie-should-do/) - The other day my friend E sent me a link to a fascinating article from the UK’s Observer, entitled “The Top 50 Things Every Foodie Should Do.” They asked a handful of Britain’s top food-lovers to help assemble a list of food-related experiences we should all have before dying. The end result included mundane—though valuable—things
- [Celebrating the First Year at Aurora](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/17/celebrating-the-first-year-at-aurora/) - Yesterday was S’s and my first wedding anniversary. I’ve often read that the first year is the hardest but honestly, I’m not sure things could get any easier between us. This is not to say that it’s been all hearts and flowers: We’ve had difficulties, everything from the financial uncertainties that arise when two freelancers
- [Salad for Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/16/salad-for-dinner/) - Lately I’ve been so busy with freelance work that I haven’t had the time—or the inclination—to do much cooking (or blogging, for that matter, for which you have my most heartfelt apologies). Luckily, though, the weather’s finally taken a turn for the warm here in New York, so salad for dinner is a very real
- [Sunday Night Dinner: Fricasseed Chicken Breasts with Fresh Herbs and Sun-Dried Tomatoes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/09/sunday-night-dinner-fricasseed-chicken-breasts-with-fresh-herbs-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/) - When I’m working in an office, as I am until mid-June, I like to cook something substantial on Sunday nights—both to flex my kitchen muscles and to have leftovers for dinner during the week. The only meat we had in the freezer was a package of frozen bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, so I decided to
- [The All-in-One Family Celebration](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/08/the-all-in-one-family-celebration/) - May is a big month for my family: yesterday, the 7th, was my dad’s birthday. Today, the 8th, is my niece L’s (she’s 5). Throw in Mother’s Day and my and S’s upcoming 1st wedding anniversary, and we’ve got a lot to celebrate. Since my niece’s party was yesterday afternoon out on Long Island, we
- [Brisket with Dried Cherries and Crimini Mushrooms](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/03/brisket-with-dried-cherries-and-crimini-mushrooms/) - Now that I know I can make a nice brisket by following a recipe, I decided it was time to experiment. On Saturday I picked up a buffalo brisket at the farmer’s market—buffalo being an extremely lean, low-cholesterol meat, I figured it would allow me and S to enjoy it with abandon. There was an
- [Recent Cookbook Acquisitions](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/05/02/recent-cookbook-acquisitions/) - Between the full-time freelance gig, Passover leftovers from my mom, and the stomach virus, I may not have been doing a lot of cooking lately, but I have been stocking up on new cookbooks to inspire me. Here are a few of the more interesting ones: Modern Classics by Donna Hay: This oversized paperback with
- [Three Pounds](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/30/three-pounds/) - Throwing up six times in eight hours--and avoiding that huge list of non-kosher-for-Passover foods all week--yielded a loss of three pounds at Weight Watchers this week. I know bulimia is a terrible, tragic thing, and I know it's probably a sign that my psyche needs adjusting, but the fact that I lost more weight this
- [Jello and Rice for Passover](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/29/jello-and-rice-for-passover/) - Have you ever had a stomach virus so violent you collapsed on the bathroom floor after each round, grateful that the cool tiles took the edge off your feverish body? Late in the afternoon on Wednesday, I started to feel queasy. Didn’t think too much of it, kept working, even had a brief business meeting
- [A Visit from an Old Friend](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/26/a-visit-from-an-old-friend/) - I had a glass of wine last night. Cabernet, deep and rich and smooth and luscious. No hives!If you offered me a million dollars I couldn't explain why my allergy seems to be abating, but I've never given up hope that it would. So I've been trying, here and there, to reintroduce wine to my
- [Matzo Brei](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/24/matzo-brei/) - I hate Passover. Most of my favorite foods are forbidden, and in their place we get matzo, the original flatbread. Stick to the roof of your mouth matzo. Crumbs all over your shirtfront matzo. Halt all intestinal activity matzo. Oh, I’ll admit, for the first day or two it’s kind of fun to eat a
- [Passover Birthdays Don’t Have to Suck (Not When There's Chocolate Souffle Cake)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/23/passover-birthdays-dont-have-to-suck-not-when-theres-chocolate-souffle-cake-2/) - Today is my sister-in-law K’s birthday. It’s also the beginning of Passover—starting at sundown tonight, for eight days observant Jews will forego all kinds of forbidden foods, known as chametz: bread, pasta, corn, legumes, rice, flour, yeast, baking powder & soda, and even mustard.* This includes any and all prepared foods made with even the
- [A Brisket, a Tasket (What is a “tasket,” anyway?)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/22/a-brisket-a-tasket-what-is-a-tasket-anyway/) - On the great, long list of Jewish dishes worth losing a kidney for—kasha varnishkes, matzoh balls, potato kugel, kishke—one stands head and shoulders above the rest: Brisket. The traditional main course for virtually any Jewish holiday, it’s a classic case of taking something of supposedly lesser quality—in this case, a tough cut of beef—and transforming
- [The Better-Than-Carvel Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/15/the-better-than-carvel-mint-chocolate-chip-ice-cream-cake/) - Mint and chocolate are the perfect couple. She, a flirty pale green, enlivens his deep, somewhat predictable flavor. He, brown and strong, grounds her airiness, providing ballast lest she float away on a cool breeze. Now, I could drag this metaphor out and wrap it around my relationship with S, but that might be pushing
- [Here's Who Goes to Benihana](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/10/heres-who-goes-to-benihana-2/) - I might have known. So the food wasn't bad, exactly. Trowels of garlic butter on everything, which was a little disorienting—I didn't think Japanese food was known for its abundant use of dairy, after all—but it actually tasted pretty good (of course it did; it was smothered in garlic butter). The place itself was a
- [Here's Who Goes to Benihana](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/11/heres-who-goes-to-benihana/) - I might have known. So the food wasn't bad, exactly. Trowels of garlic butter on everything, which was a little disorienting—I didn't think Japanese food was known for its abundant use of dairy, after all—but it actually tasted pretty good (of course it did; it was smothered in garlic butter). The place itself was a
- [Who Goes to Benihana?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/08/who-goes-to-benihana/) - Tomorrow is S’s birthday. He wants to go to Benihana. At first I thought he must be joking, but no. This is his choice, and it’s his birthday, so to Benihana we’ll go. Who knows, it could be fun. It never occurred to me that anybody else in New York would want to go to
- [My Dinner at The Red Cat](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/05/my-dinner-at-the-red-cat/) - Not every restaurant will lead a diner, disappointed by her entrée, to blame herself for a poor choice. That kind of culinary hypnotism can only be pulled off by an establishment whose store of goodwill has been built up by cheerful, service-oriented service, a handful of never-fail dishes, and a convivial crowd beckoning you to
- [Bargains Are Where You Find Them](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/03/bargains-are-where-you-find-them/) - Now, I’m as much of a bargain hunter as the next person—maybe more so, since I was raised by a discount-shopping pro—but I don’t generally browse the day-old bread bin (unless I’m making something that calls for stale bread, of course). Those price chopped, plastic-wrapped trays of bruised mangoes, wrinkly red peppers, and wobbly carrots?
- [The Big Five. Oh!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/04/02/the-big-five-oh/) - In what must be some kind of Weight Watchers record, I have finally hit the five-pound mark. It only took me fourteen weeks. The funny thing is—funny odd, not funny ha-ha—I was absolutely certain I gained this week. I had a small gain last Saturday, after my first week on the Flex Plan, and that
- [Mose, the Carb-Loving Kitty](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/31/mose-the-carb-loving-kitty/) - S often asks my why I don’t blog about Mose and Samuel, our two cats. The answer is simple: Words to Eat By is about food, not pets, as notably adorable as our boys may be. If either one ever did something food-related, sure, I’d write about it. Well, today is the day. I just
- [The Cult of Le Creuset](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/29/the-cult-of-le-creuset/) - I think I may be joining a cult. In much the same way that, say, Moonies seduce vulnerable souls with tales of self-discovery and newfound strength, so has my 9-quart Le Creuset convinced me that a richer, more fulfilling life is mine for the taking. Scarcely a month ago, this blue devil flung himself into
- [One More Reason to Reconsider That Fast-Food Habit](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/26/one-more-reason-to-reconsider-that-fast-food-habit/) - This is apparently a true story. I keep giggling, then gagging: Finger Found in Wendy's Chili--Sales Drop Sharply(Columbus, Ohio--AP, March 26, 2005) — Sales have dropped sharply at Wendy's restaurants in the area of northern California where a woman claimed she found part of a finger in a bowl of chili.A company spokesman says "It
- [Dreaming of Summer](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/23/dreaming-of-summer/) - Last summer, S and I took a last-minute honeymoon. I say “last-minute” because the plan had been to go in the fall, after we’d recuperated from the crush—and the expense—of wedding planning. A decadent three night mini-moon right after the wedding, at the Emerson Inn in Mt. Tremper, New York, would bridge the gap. But
- [In Which We Atone for Caramel-Coated Sins with Tuna, Farro, and White Bean Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/21/in-which-we-atone-for-caramel-coated-sins-with-tuna-farro-and-white-bean-salad/) - After a sugar-induced delirium lasting nearly a week (and a resultant gain at Weight Watchers on Saturday), all I could think about was having something simple, satisfying, and virtuous for dinner last night. We had plenty of fresh vegetables, mostly going limp with horror at my caramelly profligacy, and cans of tuna and white beans.
- [Foodie Gifts](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/20/foodie-gifts/) - My friend P is just back from three months in Bali. Lucky her: while the Northeastern US was slogging through one of the snowiest, messiest winters I can remember (it was, wasn’t it? I mean, it’s not just me?), P was chillin in sunshine, adjusting her sarong and taking Indonesian lessons. OK, she was working,
- [Sugar High Friday: Stuck on You, the Round-Up](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/19/sugar-high-friday-stuck-on-you-the-round-up/) - Now that my official hosting duties are wrapping up, I must say two things: One, thank you again to Jennifer at The Domestic Goddess, for creating this worldwide community event. It’s growing every time, which is a wonderful thing. And two, thank you to everyone who participated. It was genuinely exciting (and a little overwhelming)
- [Coda](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/19/coda/) - It was gooooood. I had seconds, it was so good. The crust was the only problem—it didn’t hold together consistently, left a lot of nutty bits behind on the tart pan. I think it wasn’t ground finely enough, but I was afraid I’d end up with pecan butter if I kept going… Well, it didn’t
- [Stuck on You, Round Two: Turtle Tart](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/18/stuck-on-you-round-two-turtle-tart/) - I wasn’t exactly thrilled with my earlier attempt at making caramel, so I thought I’d try again. Tonight I’m going to my friends’ for dinner, and naturally I volunteered to bring dessert. Since the exact opposite of my childhood obsession with Samoas is my current obsession with Fran’s Dark Gray Salt Caramels, it seemed only
- [Sugar High Friday: I Want Some-Moas!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/18/sugar-high-friday-i-want-some-moas/) - When I was a kid my mom always bought a lot of Girl Scout Cookies. I mean, a lot. Multiple boxes (six, eight?) each of at least four kinds: Thin Mints (of course; what’s better straight out of the freezer?), Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, and, be still my heart, Samoas. I often wonder
- [Sugar High Friday: Caramel Corn, for E](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/18/sugar-high-friday-caramel-corn-for-e/) - My friend E, of the field trip to heaven I described earlier today (she took the photo above this afternoon of her little boy, F, at Chocolate Haven), doesn't have a blog but she loves to cook, and write, as much as anyone I know. Here is her contribution to tomorrow's Sugar High Friday: Spring
- [Chocolate Haven? Chocolate Heaven? It’s All the Same to Me](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/17/chocolate-haven-chocolate-heaven-its-all-the-same-to-me/) - This afternoon I went on a field trip to heaven. I met my friend E, her sweetly sleeping six-week old baby F, and her adorable pup Sheridan (who gave me permission to use his full name) at Jacques Torres’ Chocolate Haven at 350 Hudson Street, in the lower reaches of the West Village. I’ve been
- [I’m Getting My Act Together, and Taking It on the Roadfood](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/16/im-getting-my-act-together-and-taking-it-on-the-roadfood/) - One of the benefits of my many years in book publishing is that if I ask nicely enough, I can often get a book before it’s available in stores. Today the UPS guy arrived with a wonderful surprise: the new revised edition of Roadfood (in bookstores April 12), which I’d requested long before it was
- [It's Sugar High Monday!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/14/its-sugar-high-monday/) - Well, ok, actually it's not. But it is the Monday before Sugar High Friday. You know what that means, don't you? It means that if you haven't already made your sticky-sweet caramel-based dessert, time's a-runnin' out! The other day I was browsing in a used bookstore (one of my favorite ways to while away the
- [It's Sugar High Monday!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/14/its-sugar-high-monday-2/) - Well, ok, actually it's not. But it is the Monday before Sugar High Friday. You know what that means, don't you? It means that if you haven't already made your sticky-sweet caramel-based dessert, time's a-runnin' out! The other day I was browsing in a used bookstore (one of my favorite ways to while away the
- [Nobody’s Perfect, but This Baked Brown Rice Pilaf Comes Pretty Close](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/12/nobodys-perfect-but-this-baked-brown-rice-pilaf-comes-pretty-close/) - Last night I was poking around on Chowhound’s home cooking message board and came across a lively discussion of baked brown rice. Baking my brown rice had never occurred to me, but then I recalled two very delicious baked rice dishes my mom made when we were kids: one involved very thinly sliced onions that
- [PSA: The Fat Girl Flea Market](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/12/psa-the-fat-girl-flea-market/) - This is the coolest thing ever. Wish it had been around when I was wearing plus sizes and spending hundreds of dollars for clothing that would've cost half as much in a size 12...
- [Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Figs, and Mint](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/11/pasta-with-roasted-cauliflower-figs-and-mint/) - Lately I’ve noticed a rush of cauliflower recipes on food blogs—likely because we’re in the throes of a seemingly endless winter and we’re all working with what limited fresh vegetables we can get. There have been postings by Elise at Simply Recipes, Heidi at 101 Cookbooks, and Joe at Gothamist Food (and Foodie), and I’m
- [Food Blogging 101](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/09/food-blogging-101/) - The other day I got an email from Steve, who recently started writing a food blog. He said some kind things about Words to Eat By, and then asked a question: “How did you promote your blog so well?” Perhaps he sent similar queries to other food bloggers, but it doesn’t take a whole lot
- [Fat Actress: So What’s the Big Deal?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/08/fat-actress-so-whats-the-big-deal/) - Yeah, so Kirstie Alley is fat. But in a huge letdown for me and, I’m sure, millions of other fat Americans, that doesn’t really seem to be the issue on her overhyped Showtime reality sitcom. I don’t subscribe to Showtime, but with all the promotion they did for this show—creating a free preview weekend leading
- [Cereality, for Real (Cherry-Chocolate Oatmeal Squares)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/07/cereality-for-real-cherry-chocolate-oatmeal-squares/) - An email arrived this morning from A, an old publishing colleague who’s been freelancing with another old colleague at Cereality Cereal Bar and Cafes, the Quick Service Restaurant chain he and his partner founded. She’s just accepted a full-time position as their Director of Marketing, and will be relocating to Chicago this summer to work
- [In Which We Play with Leftovers (Sesame Noodles with Shredded Chicken)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/06/in-which-we-play-with-leftovers-sesame-noodles-with-shredded-chicken/) - As I said yesterday, the Chicken Adobo works really well as leftovers. I’d torn a recipe for Sesame Noodles with Shredded Chicken from an issue of Cook’s Illustrated last Fall, mostly because it just looked so darned simple. The sauce is made in a blender or food processor—no cooking at all—so if you’ve got leftover
- [Just Like Coming Home (Plus a Recipe for Chicken Adobo)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/05/just-like-coming-home-plus-a-recipe-for-chicken-adobo/) - First of all, thank you to everyone who left those wonderfully encouraging comments on my “I look fat” post. It really did help. Over the last few weeks, I’ve been thinking a lot about why I’ve been largely unsuccessful at losing weight this time around, and one fact kept pushing its way to the forefront:
- [...Like a Hole in My Head](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/02/like-a-hole-in-my-head/) - Manhattan Users Guide just gave a shout to Lovescool, a sweeeeeet new food blog, entirely devoted to dessert. Exactly what I needed! Must.stop.reading.lovescool...
- [In Which I Beat Myself Up for Not Focusing on Weight Watchers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/02/in-which-i-beat-myself-up-for-not-focusing-on-weight-watchers/) - If you’re just here for the recipes, feel free to skip this post. I won’t be insulted, honest. I just need to face my demons, and facing them in public seems so much more, well, public, and accountability-inducing. It’s official. I look fat. The picture above was taken during our stay in the Berkshires, just
- [On Burglars, Snowstorms, and Eccentric Chefs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/03/01/on-burglars-snowstorms-and-eccentric-chefs/) - Wednesday night, around 6:30, I arrived home planning to pack and organize for a mid-week getaway in the Berkshires. The front door to the building felt strange, as if the lock were broken. Our apartment door was similarly weak, and when I opened it I discovered why: shards of splintered door frame lay scattered in
- [Announcing Sugar High Friday #6: Stuck on You (Caramel)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/24/announcing-sugar-high-friday-6-stuck-on-you-caramel/) - Caramel and I go way back. One of my earliest candy humiliations was the time J, the only girl in the entire fifth grade chubbier than I was, caught me shoplifting a Marathon Bar. All I wanted was a few moments alone with its slender, twixty, chocolate-coated chewiness, but J shamed me into marching back
- [Beef Barley Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/23/beef-barley-soup/) - I’m not much of a beef eater. If you’ve been reading Words to Eat By at all regularly, you may have noticed a distinct lack of red meat recipes—beyond the health concerns (mine as well as S’s, since he has cholesterol issues), I’ve just never really liked it. Growing up poor and kosher, beef was
- [All Hail Le Creuset Tres Grand!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/21/all-hail-le-creuset-tres-grand/) - Psst! New Yorkers: Broadway Panhandler is having a sale on Le Creuset. I’ve been coveting a great big one for years—it was the most expensive single item on our wedding registry, and boo hoo nobody sprang for it. We already own several dutch ovens, so the idea of laying down my own cold hard cash
- [Little Gram’s Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/19/little-grams-sauce/) - Today I’m delighted to introduce a guest writer, my husband S. It’s known at “Little Gram’s Sauce,” after my mother’s maternal grandmother, a matriarch known by one and all by diminutive nickname. I’ve probably eaten more of this sauce than any other thing, except maybe water and milk. In fact, brands of spaghetti have come
- [A Bad Night for Food, a Great Night for Funk](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/18/a-bad-night-for-food-a-great-night-for-funk/) - Earlier this week, I noticed a squib in the Times saying that Morris Day and The Time would be doing a show Thursday night at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, with the Ohio Players opening. This was notable for three reasons: 1. I loves me some funk. 2. S is a Prince fan to the
- [Gingersnaps](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/16/gingersnaps/) - I’m really exhausted today so I’ll make this post short and sweet, literally. I clipped this recipe for gingersnaps years ago from a Peter Kump/ICE bulletin—I think it was the applesauce that caught my eye. It’s practically foolproof, and really, really easy, and the end result is what I consider the ideal gingersnap: it’s super
- [The Right Man, the Right Restaurant, the Right Breakfast](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/13/the-right-man-the-right-restaurant-the-right-breakfast/) - Yesterday was the anniversary of S’s and my first date. Neither of us is terribly into Valentine’s Day, so in a tiny rebellion against the Hallmarkization of everything, we celebrate our own milestone instead. Budget-restricted food lover that I am, this generally translates into dinner at a highly-recommended restaurant (see my birthday dinner at Blue
- [Chicken Puttanesca with Mushrooms](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/12/chicken-puttanesca-with-mushrooms/) - Finally, a chance to do a little real cooking! On Thursday I had a doctor’s appointment in the late afternoon, and instead of returning to work I just went home. I’d thought ahead and defrosted chicken, but I hadn’t thought ahead enough to actually decide what to make. The fridge was nearly devoid of fresh
- [Music to Eat By](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/10/music-to-eat-by/) - Isn’t it funny how almost anything—even a food blog—can bring all one’s high-school insecurities to the surface? Lately I’ve been watching a chain-letter-type-thingie being passed among all my favorite food blogs, and while I clearly haven’t had a whole lot of time to write lately (five posts in the last two weeks is pretty pathetic
- [I’m So Glad I’m Not This Guy](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/09/im-so-glad-im-not-this-guy/) - Behold, the star-nosed mole. According to this article in today’s New York Times, this little guy (actual size: 2” wide, 4-5” long) can eat a mouthful of food in one-fifth of a second. Let me repeat: one-fifth of a second. Shee-it, that’s some fast eating. For comparison’s sake, the article mentions that Sonya Thomas, The
- [Yes, There IS Such a Thing as Too Much Chocolate Pudding](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/09/yes-there-is-such-a-thing-as-too-much-chocolate-pudding/) - It all started with an innocent thought. S and I were relaxing before dinner, just going over our respective days, when we realized we didn’t have enough milk for tomorrow’s breakfast. S volunteered to run to the store, and on a whim I asked him to get extra milk—I felt like making pudding. What I
- [Like Riding a Bike?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/05/like-riding-a-bike/) - It’s been a good week since I cooked anything more complicated than oatmeal—we spent last weekend with family (mine on Saturday, his on Sunday), and during the week I was either out or working, and too exhausted to cook when I got home. S was working just as hard, so we ordered in a lot.
- [A PSA re: SHF](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/02/04/a-psa-re-shf/) - If you haven't gotten around to making your puff pastry creation for next week's Sugar High Friday, hosted by Clement at A La Cuisine, get your hands on a copy of the February Kitchen & Cook newsletter, published by the Culinary Institute of America. I recently subscribed and finally had a chance to thumb through
- [Look What the Postman Just Brought!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/29/look-what-the-postman-just-brought/) - My first-ever order from Penzeys. I'm aquiver with excitement. There were so many items I was tempted to buy, but I restrained myself for my inaugural purchase. Just think of all the lovely, mysterious, deeply-flavored things I can make with this haul. Must. Stop. Drooling. OK. Gotta go make something...
- [Happy Birthday, Mom! (With a Recipe for Dark Chocolate Layer Cake with Mocha Frosting, Plus Cake Frosting Tips)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/29/happy-birthday-mom-with-a-recipe-for-dark-chocolate-layer-cake-with-mocha-frosting-plus-cake-frosting-tips/) - My mom’s birthday was on Inauguration Day. Between the blizzard and my family’s busy schedules, the Official Celebration will finally happen later today. While we kids would’ve been perfectly happy to take Mom out—and I offered to host the party here, too—my mother’s ideal birthday involves having her entire family come to her home, where
- [Clean-Out-the-Fridge Lentil Soup with Turkey Meatballs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/28/clean-out-the-fridge-lentil-soup-with-turkey-meatballs/) - I brought home a pile of freelance work to do today, and it took longer than I expected to finish it. When I finally turned off my marketing brain it was nearly 8:00, and aside from taking out some ground turkey breast to defrost this morning, I’d given no thought to dinner. Our car’s been
- [Comfort Me With Spaetzle](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/26/comfort-me-with-spaetzle/) - 4:30 this morning, I wake to find S sitting on the edge of the bed, facing away from me. -Is everything OK? -His stomach hurts, he says. I murmur something vaguely comforting and roll over, hoping to fall back asleep. -No, it really hurts. Really. We turn on lights. He paces in his Purchase t-shirt
- [My First Baby Gift](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/26/my-first-baby-gift/) - If I ever have a baby, and I hope I will soon, somebody please buy this for him/her! (In case you can't read it, it says "Aspiring Foodie" on the front.) Florence Fabricant wrote about it in the Times today, and I smiled just looking at it.
- [Is My Blog Burning? Farro & White Bean Soup with Escarole](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/23/is-my-blog-burning-farro-white-bean-soup-with-escarole/) - Ahh, the humble bean. What ingredient is more disparaged, yet more versatile? Sure, you might get a little, umm, musical after, but isn’t it worth it? Beans are delicious, they’re healthy, and best of all, they’re cheap. On Words to Eat By alone you’ll find them in Lentil & Brown Rice Soup, Split Pea Soup,
- [Cookooning in a Blizzard (with Frittata and Tomato-Rice Soup)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/23/cookooning-in-a-blizzard-with-frittata-and-tomato-rice-soup/) - Don’t know ‘bout you, but here in lovely Brooklyn we’re snowed in. It started around 11:30 this morning and it’s been quietly blanketing us all day—they say we might get as much as two feet by the time it stops tomorrow. I love New York in the snow. My ceaselessly vibrant, beautifully gritty city becomes
- [Ode on a Bowl of Split-Pea Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/22/ode-on-a-bowl-of-split-pea-soup/) - I am blue, stir-crazy against forbidding cold. Dinner time approaches. No plan has been made. Humble split peas rattle, jarred. Onion, carrot, celery, parsnip. Bacon. Twenty minutes later bubbling, thickening. Time passes, deep and grainy Mellow, homey, unassuming Collapsed, embracing pea-ness Ivory parsnip buoys float on a thick sea, melt on my tongue Their sweetness
- [Why Can’t I Be Allergic to Chocolate? (With a Recipe for Chocolate Yogurt Loaf)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/20/why-cant-i-be-allergic-to-chocolate-with-a-recipe-for-chocolate-yogurt-loaf/) - Over the last few years I’ve developed several oddball allergies: Dust mites. Benzoyl peroxide. Gold (yes, gold, not nickel. My dermatologist was shocked—I’m the only person he’s ever seen who’s actually allergic to gold.). Most recently, wine. That last one is really killing me—drinking a glass of good red wine, with or without a meal,
- [Still Life with Canisters](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/19/still-life-with-canisters/) - S’s mom wanted to know what to get me for Christmas. A gift certificate to The Container Store was my immediate reply. I believe she thought I was a little batty, but she acquiesced graciously. The array you see here is the result. What a fantabulous mother-in-law! When S and I started fixing up our
- [Ta-Dah! An Index Is Born](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/18/ta-dah-an-index-is-born/) - After the very gracious suggestions from Molly at Orangette and Sam at Becks & Posh and three or four hours of spare time (aka "time I should've spent writing a freelance assignment"), Words to Eat By now has a handy-dandy site index for your browsing pleasure. See it there, lounging on the left-hand side of
- [Off-Subject Request for Help: Words to Eat By Needs Categories!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/15/off-subject-request-for-help-words-to-eat-by-needs-categories/) - As my little blog grows, I'm increasingly frustrated by the monthly archiving system offered by Blogger. Who's going to look for the recipe for Chocolate Cappuccino Wafers in an archive entitled "December"? As I write each post, I wish I could assign it a sensible category for future reference--"Dessert," say, or "Restaurants"--but according to Blogger
- [Restaurant Notes: Chimu Peruvian Steak House](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/15/restaurant-notes-chimu-peruvian-steak-house/) - Williamsburg, where S and I live, is a tricky place when it comes to food. The grocery stores suck (now that we have a car I drive 20 minutes to Long Island City, where I used to live, to hit the Stop & Shop). Finding good produce is a notoriously difficult proposition. But there are
- [A Pilaffy-Type Thing for Dinner](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/15/a-pilaffy-type-thing-for-dinner/) - This is last night’s dinner. You’ll notice I haven’t given it a name, because I can’t think of anything that’s elegant and reflective of its charms. Here are its charms: Very tasty, and unusual in a good way Chewy grains of Lundberg brand Black Japonica rice Oodles of different vegetables: carrots, rutabaga, onion & garlic,
- [French Women Don’t Get Fat?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/13/french-women-dont-get-fat/) - Last night I had dinner with my friend and former publishing colleague A, who is half-French and lost quite a few pounds while visiting there for a month recently. Having heard much about a new book called French Women Don't Get Fat, naturally I asked her what she thought about the whole idea. To my
- [G#d^&mn M*th%rf&@!*ng Digital Video Recorder](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/13/gdmn-mthrfng-digital-video-recorder/) - I just turned on the TV, excited to see last night's finale of The Biggest Loser. It didn't record. I fucking missed it. It's killing me. I know I can go to the web site and see who won right now, but I really wanted to watch it unfold. Feh. Serves me right for getting
- [Pomegranate Chicken](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/12/pomegranate-chicken/) - Yesterday I started a new freelance gig. It’s three days a week, in an office. Fairly easy work, and I’ve already picked up one perk: a proof of the new Mario Batali cookbook, Molto Italiano, which looks fabulous. So far it’s been good for my eating, too—on my first day they didn’t have my card-key
- [A Quick WW Note](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/11/a-quick-ww-note/) - Haven't had time to write a post today--I'm starting a new freelance gig tomorrow and today was back-to-back errands--but in case anyone's interested: I lost 2 pounds at Weight Watchers tonight! Must've been the chick peas. (Debbie bows, and exits stage left.)
- [Snack Time: Curry Roasted Chickpeas](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/09/snack-time-curry-roasted-chickpeas/) - Have I mentioned that I’m a big snacker? Nibbling is one of my favorite pastimes. A cookie here, a Wheat Thin there, and boom! Twenty pounds added. But just because I’m doing Weight Watchers doesn’t mean I’m going to stop snacking; far from it. It’s just a question of choosing more appropriate snacks. No more
- [A Quick Ratatouille-ish Stew](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/08/a-quick-ratatouille-ish-stew/) - 18:30 Friday January 7, 2005. It’s been dark for nearly two hours already. S and I are just back from the Laundromat (oh, for a washer and dryer of one’s own!) and we’re getting hungry. I open the fridge and find: One good-sized eggplant with a dent in the side. Four medium zucchini. A red
- [Mazel Tov, Tiny Fork!](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/08/mazel-tov-tiny-fork/) - The final list of winners for the 2004 Food Blog Awards were announced yesterday over at The Accidental Hedonist (thanks again, Kate, for organizing this whole mishegoss. What a lot of work!). You may recall that Words to Eat By was a finalist for Best New Blog. Well, I didn't win, but that's because the
- [Sugar High Friday: Roasted Pears with Sugar & Spiced Pecans and Poire William Caramel Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/07/sugar-high-friday-roasted-pears-with-sugar-spiced-pecans-and-poire-william-caramel-sauce/) - Sugar High Friday was a bit of a challenge for me this month. I returned to Weight Watchers two weeks ago, and after last week’s disappointment I really wanted to stick to the program perfectly this week. So this month’s theme—nuts—selected and hosted by Seattle Bon Vivant, gave me pause. But wait a minute, you’re
- [Props to “The Biggest Loser”](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/07/props-to-the-biggest-loser/) - You may recall a rant of mine, in the early days of Words to Eat By, about NBC’s reality show “The Biggest Loser.” I called it cruel, misleading, and downright scary. I also confessed that I had my DVR all set up to record the entire series. There’s no denying it—they concocted one hell of
- [Welcome to My Kitchen](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/05/welcome-to-my-kitchen/) - On tonight’s episode of “Cheap-and-REALLY-Long-and-Drawn-Out Makeovers,” we have the kitchen of Debbie and her husband, S. S had been living in the apartment for over a decade before his fiancée moved in, and in that period the place had never been painted. Not once. And there had been multiple leaks, in several rooms, repaired by
- [Cookbooks I Know and Love](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/05/cookbooks-i-know-and-love/) - At last count, my cookbook collection numbered 141. I’ve received a bunch from friends in publishing and family members over the holidays, so it’s likely closer to 150 now. An entire wall of our kitchen is devoted to shelves for them. Some I use weekly, others sit unopened and unloved, relics of a time when
- [Weight Watchers Week One, and The Barefoot Contessa’s BBQ Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/04/weight-watchers-week-one-and-the-barefoot-contessas-bbq-sauce/) - Tonight I went to Weight Watchers after my first week back on the program. And (drum roll, please): I gained .6 of a pound. It’s probably my fifteenth time joining WW in my life, and I’m pretty sure it’s the first time I ever managed to gain the very first week. A disappointing result, yes,
- [Smothered Chicken, Jewish Style](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/02/smothered-chicken-jewish-style/) - When you’re one of four kids growing up in a three-bedroom apartment without much money, you find yourself taking turns a lot. My brothers and I took turns sitting in the “get-up” seat at supper (which meant popping up and down to help bring out food, clear plates, etc.), doing the dishes, squishing into the
- [Hives for the New Year](https://debbiekoenig.com/2005/01/01/hives-for-the-new-year/) - Apparently my new wine allergy, which started about a year ago with only Pinot Grigio and then spread to every other white and now all the reds, also includes champagne. Five minutes after sucking down--uh, sipping--my first glass, before that delicious champagny buzz could even peek shyly from behind the curtain, my face was itchy
- [Ringing in the New Year with Fancy Meatballs](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/31/ringing-in-the-new-year-with-fancy-meatballs/) - When I was a kid, my parents never went out on New Year’s Eve. Not once. They never had people over, either—it always was just the six of us. They’d let us kids stay up until midnight (if we could). We’d blow on noisemakers and feast on cocktail weenies in sweet-and-sour sauce, frozen hors d’oeuvres
- [Is There Such a Thing as Privacy in Blogworld?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/31/is-there-such-a-thing-as-privacy-in-blogworld/) - A close family member found my blog the other day. It’s my own fault. I have a link in my email signature—since I’m such a publicity whore it seemed like an easy way to let people know about WtEB. In the two months that I’ve been blogging, I’ve scrupulously deleted that link in emails to
- [Artichoke Tortellini Primavera](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/30/artichoke-tortellini-primavera/) - The night before I went back to Weight Watchers, S and I cooked together. Although I do the majority of the cooking around here (and he does all the dishes), when both our schedules permit, nothing makes me happier, or feel more married, than working in the kitchen with my husband. We’re in the midst
- [My Life as a Gym Rat (Plus a Really Good Smoothie Recipe)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/29/my-life-as-a-gym-rat-plus-a-really-good-smoothie-recipe/) - There are a lot of mirrors in a gym. Back when I was a workout fiend, spending at least an hour there six (often seven) days a week, I loved seeing my image reflected back at me a thousand different ways. A bit of a show-off, I’d wear leggings and a sports bra—why cover up
- [Petition Bush to Increase Our Pathetic $35 Million Aid](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/29/petition-bush-to-increase-our-pathetic-35-million-aid/) - I'm embarrassed, I'm chagrined, and most of all I'm pissed off that our government has committed a whopping $35 million to SE Asia. This after been shamed by the international community for an initial pledge of only $15MM. $35 million is less than the annual budget of most small towns, I'd guess. Who are they
- [The Disaster in Southeast Asia](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/28/the-disaster-in-southeast-asia/) - I have very little insight or eloquence to offer right now, so I'll just post a few links: Some kind and wise blogger has set up this site as a clearinghouse for information. Here is a list of organizations accepting donations. A good friend of mine is in Bali right now, visiting her fiance's family.
- [Back on the Wagon](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/27/back-on-the-wagon/) - Tonight I’m going to a Weight Watchers meeting, for the first time in over two years. Things have reached a tipping point, I suppose—none of my lycra-free clothing fits any more, and I find that jeans fresh from the washing machine bear absolutely no resemblance to the stretched-out, barely-comfortable ones that went in. I’ve been
- [A Four-Star Birthday Dinner with Two-Star Food: Blue Hill at Stone Barns](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/26/a-four-star-birthday-dinner-with-two-star-food-blue-hill-at-stone-barns/) - This is my last birthday-related post, I promise (well, this year, anyway)… When you’re a freelancer, money is always an issue. One month might be overflowing with business, and the next month a drought descends. And when you’re married to a freelancer as well, the uncertainty doubles. S and I live a rewarding, fairly frugal,
- [A Christmas Tease](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/25/a-christmas-tease/) - I've been having computer issues for the last few days, but I hope that within the next few I'll be posting about the following: My birthday dinner at Blue Hill at Stone Barns Things to do with leftover Roasted Red Pepper Spread Artichoke Tortellini Primavera Chewy, Sticky Chocolate Babka My in-laws are on their way
- [Banana Chocolate Chip Birthday Muffins](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/22/banana-chocolate-chip-birthday-muffins/) - These didn’t start out as Birthday Muffins. Yesterday morning, when I found myself staring at a buttload of fast-ripening bananas, getting hungry for something mildly sweet and breakfasty, I decided to bake. Since I made my standard Banana-Chocolate-Pecan Bread not too long ago, I wanted to try something new. Out came the baking cookbooks. Most
- [Newsflash! Cast of Sideways Appearing After an AMMI Screening January 8](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/22/newsflash-cast-of-sideways-appearing-after-an-ammi-screening-january-8/) - Just got this email bulletin from the Museum of the Moving Image: "Saturday, January 8th at 7:00 p.m. Moving Image will present a special screening of SIDEWAYS, the film that swept the New York Film Critics Circle Awards, winning four major awards including Best Picture. After the screening, stars Paul Giamatti (Best Actor), Virginia Madsen
- [UPDATE It's an Honor Just to Be Nominated...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/21/update-its-an-honor-just-to-be-nominated/) - (giggle) Never imagined in a million years I'd have the opportunity to say that, but thanks to you Words to Eat By is a finalist for Best New Blog in the inaugural Food Blog Awards, organized by Kate at The Accidental Hedonist. UPDATE: I received an email from Kate earlier today alerting me to the
- [UPDATE It's an Honor Just to Be Nominated...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/21/update-its-an-honor-just-to-be-nominated-2/) - (giggle) Never imagined in a million years I'd have the opportunity to say that, but thanks to you Words to Eat By is a finalist for Best New Blog in the inaugural Food Blog Awards, organized by Kate at The Accidental Hedonist. UPDATE: I received an email from Kate earlier today alerting me to the
- [Nu? Chrismukkah? (Featuring Recipes for Roasted Red Pepper Spread and Parmesan Crackers)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/20/nu-chrismukkah-featuring-recipes-for-roasted-red-pepper-spread-and-parmesan-crackers/) - I love this time of year, always have, and since I met S I’ve been enjoying it even more. You see, I have a confession to make: I’m a Christmas-loving Jew. Just walking by a curbside Christmas tree vendor, breathing in that evergreen aroma, is enough to make me smile and walk a little more
- [Get Your Nominations in by Midnight: The Inaugural Food Blog Awards](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/19/get-your-nominations-in-by-midnight-the-inaugural-food-blog-awards/) - Just a reminder that nominations for the first-ever Food Blog Awards, created and hosted by Kate at Accidental Hedonist, are closing tonight at midnight Pacific Time. Don’t miss the chance to make sure your favorite foodies' efforts are recognized—an awful lot of effort goes into blogging about food, and just think how oogy and warm-all-over
- [I Think I’ve Died and Gone to Cono: Cono & Sons O’Pescatore](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/19/i-think-ive-died-and-gone-to-cono-cono-sons-opescatore/) - S and I just came back from dinner at our favorite local Italian spot—correction, it’s our favorite Italian spot, period. In my days as a publishing executive I got taken out a lot, to some pretty fine and fancy places. Babbo, I Trulli, Felidia, Beppe. I’ve been to Italy several times. What I’m saying is,
- [Madeleines, Shmadeleines: Kasha Varnishkes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/17/madeleines-shmadeleines-kasha-varnishkes/) - “But when from a long-distant past nothing subsists, after the people are dead, after the things are broken and scattered, taste and smell alone, more fragile but more enduring, more unsubstantial, more persistent, more faithful, remain poised a long time, like souls, remembering, waiting, hoping, amid the ruins of all the rest; and bear unflinchingly,
- [Chocolate Cappuccino Wafers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/16/chocolate-cappuccino-wafers/) - Yes, I’ve said more than once that I’m going to lay off baking for a while. And more than once, I’ve proven how shallow my resolve really is. Now, I’ll prove it again. I bought a bag of flour the other day, because we had nearly run out. (Hmm, wonder how that happened?) But when
- [Oh, Give Me a Home: Cinnamon-Scented Buffalo Stew](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/14/oh-give-me-a-home-cinnamon-scented-buffalo-stew/) - Beef has never played a big role in my kitchen. While I enjoy a juicy-to-my-elbows burger as much as the next person, a hunk of steak or a giant roast has never made me swoon the way it does for so many others. It’s too plainly reminiscent of the animal it used to be, I
- [The Perils of a Late-December Birthday](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/13/the-perils-of-a-late-december-birthday/) - So my birthday is coming up—it’s the 22nd, just 3 days before Christmas. This has typically resulted in some disappointing celebrations: When I was a kid, we were always on vacation from school, so parties were lame and sparsely attended. As an adult, everyone gets so caught up in preparing for the holidays that my
- [Sugar High Friday #3: Pumpkin Bread Pudding](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/10/sugar-high-friday-3-pumpkin-bread-pudding/) - Here in New York it’s been pretty dreary all week, varying degrees of cold and rainy, and when it gets like this all I want to do is hole up with something warm and filling. So far I’ve made Mushroom Barley Soup and oatmeal, baked challah and chocolate cappucino wafers (which I’ll post about another
- [2004 Food Blog Awards](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/10/2004-food-blog-awards/) - Kate at The Accidental Hedonist has come up with a groovy new idea--the Food Blog Awards, inspired by the lack of attention to food blogs in the Bloggies (and who knew there even was such a thing as a "Bloggie"?) There are 14 categories, including everything from Best Post to Best Group Blog. Nominations are
- [Mushroom Barley Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/09/mushroom-barley-soup/) - This is another recipe I grew up with, and when the weather turns cool it’s one of my favorite—and easiest—things to make. It’s from an English kosher cookbook, called The Gourmet's Guide to Jewish Cooking by Bessie Carr & Phyllis Oberman. It’s one of my mom’s most-used cookbooks, and she gave me a copy when
- [Friday Afternoons](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/07/friday-afternoons/) - What’s that you say—today is Tuesday, not Friday? Well I know that, silly. This is another one of those memory pieces, in which I wax rhapsodic about a food I grew up on and then attempt to recreate it. Today’s episode: Challah. As I’ve mentioned before, my mom suffered from a disabling depression through much
- [A Huge Thank-You to Charlie Suisman at Manhattan User's Guide](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/07/a-huge-thank-you-to-charlie-suisman-at-manhattan-users-guide/) - Of the handful of e-newsletters to which I subscribe, there are two whose content I find invaluable enough to forward to others nearly every week. One is Chowhound's Chownews, to which I've already devoted several hundred words in these pages. The other is Charlie Suisman's Manhattan User's Guide. Whether he's highlighting the best place to
- [Foods Traditional, Commercial, and Unusual](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/07/foods-traditional-commercial-and-unusual/) - In the course of one very long day (yesterday), I helped S’s family celebrate his great-grandmother’s 102nd birthday, checked out the new Cereality shop in Philadelphia, and visited an old friend and her family. The range of experience—of food experience—was astounding. Part One: Little Gram’s 102nd The women on S’s mother’s side are renowned for
- [A Huge Thank-You to Charlie Suisman at Manhattan User's Guide](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/07/a-huge-thank-you-to-charlie-suisman-at-manhattan-users-guide-2/) - Of the handful of e-newsletters to which I subscribe, there are two whose content I find invaluable enough to forward to others nearly every week. One is Chowhound's Chownews, to which I've already devoted several hundred words in these pages. The other is Charlie Suisman's Manhattan User's Guide. Whether he's highlighting the best place to
- [Words to Eat By’s First Annual Foodie Gifts Round-Up](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/04/words-to-eat-bys-first-annual-foodie-gifts-round-up/) - I get a lot of catalogs. I mean A LOT of catalogs. Not sure why, exactly, except that I do a good portion of my shopping online. Sometimes I picture all those direct marketers sitting in a dingy back room somewhere, smoking stogies and wearing green accountants’ visors, bartering names and addresses: “Frankie, I’ve got
- [And the Winner in a Landslide...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/04/and-the-winner-in-a-landslide/) - Recently I invited you all to vote on which recipe I'd play with for the next edition of Sugar High Fridays, on December 10. The theme requires using one or more of the following spices: allspice, nutmeg, and cardamom. Well, the polls officially closed yesterday, and thank heavens there will be no pesky claims of
- [A Broccoli from Another Planet](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/02/a-broccoli-from-another-planet/) - What the hell is this? I saw it at the farmer's market the other day. Something about its swirling chartreuse peaks, like a cross between a science fiction landscape and one of Madonna's old bras, begged me to take it home and play with it. Turns out it's called Romanesco broccoli. I googled it when
- [Marcella Says Knock You Out](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/12/01/marcella-says-knock-you-out/) - If Ina Garten is an inspiration, the woman who helped me see there was another path for me than the one I was on, then Marcella Hazan is a muse, a teacher whose lessons I’ve taken to heart without strictly following her recipes. I’ve owned Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking for years and cherished it
- [BMI, Weight, and Me: Let Confusion Reign](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/29/bmi-weight-and-me-let-confusion-reign/) - Gina Kolata had a brief, interesting article in yesterday’s New York Times about the fact that, according to his BMI of 26.4, our vigorously healthy and virile President is overweight—putting him among the 65% of Americans who fall into this category. Your BMI, or Body Mass Index, is determined by a formula based on weight
- [Caramel Apple Pastis: Pretty, But Not Practical](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/27/caramel-apple-pastis-pretty-but-not-practical/) - I don’t know about you, but I suck at pie crust. In fact, I pretty much gave up on it after being dumped by a boyfriend who was soooo into pie, at the time I half-believed we broke up over my obvious crustal deficiencies. So when I saw this recipe in the November Gourmet, I
- [A Blatant Ad* for Chowhound's ChowNews](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/26/a-blatant-ad-for-chowhounds-chownews/) - Trying to figure out what to get for your food-obsessed Uncle Leo? Words to Eat By has the answer! Many of you, I'm sure, are familiar with Chowhound. Whenever I'm stumped for a good place for dinner in the theater district, or the best burger in town, or honest takes on the hottest new restaurants,
- [A Blatant Ad* for Chowhound's ChowNews](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/26/a-blatant-ad-for-chowhounds-chownews-2/) - Trying to figure out what to get for your food-obsessed Uncle Leo? Words to Eat By has the answer! Many of you, I'm sure, are familiar with Chowhound. Whenever I'm stumped for a good place for dinner in the theater district, or the best burger in town, or honest takes on the hottest new restaurants,
- [My First Macy's Thanksgiving Parade](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/25/my-first-macys-thanksgiving-parade/) - S and I were lucky enough to be invited to view the parade from a friend's third-floor apartment on Central Park West. I've lived in NY all my life--grew up in the suburbs, and in the city for 15+ years--and I've never actually seen this shit live before. It's pretty mind-blowing when the giant balloons
- [My First Macy's Thanksgiving Parade](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/25/my-first-macys-thanksgiving-parade-2/) - S and I were lucky enough to be invited to view the parade from a friend's third-floor apartment on Central Park West. I've lived in NY all my life--grew up in the suburbs, and in the city for 15+ years--and I've never actually seen this shit live before. It's pretty mind-blowing when the giant balloons
- [Vote in the REAL Election: Nutmeg, Cardamom, or Allspice?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/24/vote-in-the-real-election-nutmeg-cardamom-or-allspice/) - Mmm, warm and toasty...The next edition of Sugar High Fridays has been announced--it's being hosted by the lovely Zarah Maria at Food & Thoughts. The theme: Spices. Participating cooks are to use Nutmeg, Cardamom, or Allspice (or any combination thereof) to make something sweet and delicious, then blog about it on Friday, December 10. I
- [Grandpa’s Kitchen-Sink Tuna Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/23/grandpas-kitchen-sink-tuna-salad/) - I had a difficult relationship with my grandfather. He died when I was a senior in high school, so some of it may have been simple adolescent drama. But when I look at my mom’s relationship with him, and my grandmother’s, something vaguely misogynistic emerges. Grandpa was a large man, imposing, with beefy arms, a
- [My Heart's Desire, and Killer Chocolate Layer Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/22/my-hearts-desire-and-killer-chocolate-layer-cake-2/) - For months I've been coveting a turntable cake plate, for ease of decorating. Not that I'm the world's best cake-decorator, but just the idea of putting the cake on the plate part and being able to turn it with the flick of a wrist, instead of maneuvering around and trying to reach the back of
- [My Heart's Desire, and Killer Chocolate Layer Cake](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/22/my-hearts-desire-and-killer-chocolate-layer-cake/) - For months I've been coveting a turntable cake plate, for ease of decorating. Not that I'm the world's best cake-decorator, but just the idea of putting the cake on the plate part and being able to turn it with the flick of a wrist, instead of maneuvering around and trying to reach the back of
- [My First IMBB: In Which I Try to Replicate the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies in the Entire World](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/21/my-first-imbb-in-which-i-try-to-replicate-the-best-chocolate-chip-cookies-in-the-entire-world/) - Oh. My. God. I am so excited for this. When Jennifer at Domestic Goddess announced that cookies would be the theme for IMBB #10—the first one since the birth of Words to Eat By—I did a little happy dance around my office. If someone—some mean, evil, nasty person—were to tell me I could only cook
- [Who Wants Some Hot Oatmeal Pancakes?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/20/who-wants-some-hot-oatmeal-pancakes/) - It's bleary out today, cold and grey and forbidding. Nothing better to do on such a morning than hunker down over a warm stack of hearty, healthy, cozy pancakes. What's that you say? You're pulling out the Aunt Jemima box? Noooo! Step away from the cardboard. There's nothing wrong with good old Auntie J, lord
- [The Three Faces of Me: Debbie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/19/the-three-faces-of-me-debbie/) - So you’ve met Fat Debbie: and Hot Debbie: It’s time to introduce plain ol’, garden variety, what-you-see-is-what-you-get Debbie: That photo was taken just a few days ago. I’m a little heavier than I’d like to be these days—I’ve gained twenty pounds since my wedding six months ago. There are several reasons for that, including an
- [Stocking Up at Chelsea Market](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/18/stocking-up-at-chelsea-market/) - Yesterday I had to run an errand to the Meatpacking District, and to me that means only one thing: a detour to the Chelsea Market. Almost ten years ago, some foodie genius converted the old Nabisco factory (birthplace of the Oreo!) into a nearly one-stop gourmet food/supplies source. Spoking off a central corridor, there's a
- [Chewy Cocoa Fudge Cookies](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/17/chewy-cocoa-fudge-cookies/) - OK, so I didn't end up cooking last night. But those flowers did earn something wonderful for S: his favorite cookies. Crrrazy good and shockingly easy to throw together, these are from an old Cooking Light recipe so they're actually kinda sorta pretty healthy, and as usual I've made a modification or two. They bake
- [Nothing to Do with Food, Really](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/16/nothing-to-do-with-food-really/) - The doorbell just rang. It was these: Are they not insanely beautiful? They're from S. Today is our six-month wedding anniversary, but that's just a coincidence. S produces documentaries, and lately he's been working insane hours. The flowers are because I've been doing all the cooking and cleaning (well, whatever cleaning is getting done--it's not
- [Cereality, or: Why I'm No Visionary](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/15/cereality-or-why-im-no-visionary/) - I once worked with a visionary. His name was David Roth, and he was Associate Publisher of Fodor’s Travel Publications. I was VP of advertising and promotion for a division of Random House, and Fodor’s fell under my purview. I loved working with David—he had huge energy and passion; he was always willing to try
- [Cereality, or: Why I'm No Visionary](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/15/cereality-or-why-im-no-visionary-2/) - I once worked with a visionary. His name was David Roth, and he was Associate Publisher of Fodor’s Travel Publications. I was VP of advertising and promotion for a division of Random House, and Fodor’s fell under my purview. I loved working with David—he had huge energy and passion; he was always willing to try
- [Adventures in Recipe Testing, Part 1: In Which I Become a Dope-ita While Making Spanakopita](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/15/adventures-in-recipe-testing-part-1-in-which-i-become-a-dope-ita-while-making-spanakopita/) - Have you ever wondered what four and a half pounds of spinach looks like? Me neither. This is what four and a half pounds of spinach looks like: You might say, “Holy cow, Debbie, that’s a lot of spinach!” I would agree. You might ask how I came to need four and a half pounds
- [Healthy Banana-Chocolate-Pecan Bread](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/13/healthy-banana-chocolate-pecan-bread/) - In looking back over my posts (boy, they're adding up already, aren't they?) I realized that yesterday's SHF cupcakes was my first baking recipe. That is wrong, people! Baking is one of my favorite pastimes, so it's just plain weird that I haven't gotten around to writing about it yet. For the next IMBB I'll
- [Sugar High Friday: Pistachio-Apple Cupcakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/12/sugar-high-friday-pistachio-apple-cupcakes/) - When I saw Jennifer's posting on Domestic Goddess a few weeks ago about the second round of SHF, I got really excited. Words to Eat By is still quite new, so this is my first blogging event--plus just the idea of SHF makes my sweet tooth sing. (Ok, so maybe a tooth can't "sing," but
- [The Funniest Thing Since November 2](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/11/the-funniest-thing-since-november-2/) - If you live in a blue state (or wish you did), this will help. Seriously. Click on it right now.
- [Lentil & Brown Rice Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/11/lentil-brown-rice-soup/) - Now, I love epicurious as much as the next person. But in all honesty, I generally use it as a resource for ideas, as opposed to actual recipes. When I have a particular ingredient or two in mind, I'll troll through their enormous database and read a bunch of recipes, pulling elements or techniques from
- [The Three Faces of Me: Hot Debbie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/09/the-three-faces-of-me-hot-debbie/) - Last week I introduced Fat Debbie. Today I’d like you to meet Hot Debbie, the second face I’ve worn in my life. The other night I watched that Diane Keaton/Jack Nicholson movie Something’s Gotta Give. The opening credits unspool over a montage of beauties in body-conscious outfits strutting around town, proudly daring hungry men—and jealous
- [Stop the Presses! I'm Going Barefoot in Paris](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/08/stop-the-presses-im-going-barefoot-in-paris/) - If you've read many of my posts, you know I have a bit of a crush on Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa. She's what inspired me out of my miserable corporate life and into...this: my happy freelance life, using all that free-freelance time to cook and write about it for S and my friends and
- [Stop the Presses! I'm Going Barefoot in Paris](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/08/stop-the-presses-im-going-barefoot-in-paris-2/) - If you've read many of my posts, you know I have a bit of a crush on Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa. She's what inspired me out of my miserable corporate life and into...this: my happy freelance life, using all that free-freelance time to cook and write about it for S and my friends and
- [Does "Vegan" Have to Be Code for "Crap"?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/08/does-vegan-have-to-be-code-for-crap/) - This morning I had an errand to run in Union Square, and knowing that the Farmer's Market is there on Mondays I didn't eat breakfast before I left the house (I lu-u-u-urvs me some breakfast, so this was a pretty big decision). First I stopped at Bread Alone's stand, my favorite place for multi-grain breads
- [My Favorite Kitchen Tools](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/06/my-favorite-kitchen-tools/) - Last weekend I wrote about some of my favorite ingredients. Today I'm thinking about my favorite gadgets--things I use around the kitchen that make life easier, or prettier, or just better. Mind you, I'm not a big fan of gadgets in general. For years I was convinced any cook worth her salt could make a
- [The Simplest Herb Marinade Ever](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/05/the-simplest-herb-marinade-ever/) - OK so maybe I’m not enough of an authority to say “EVER,” but as far as I’m concerned there’s no marinade out there that’s a) easier; or b) packs more flavor per minute invested. It’s not earth-shattering or especially new, it’s just delicious. If you’ve got five minutes to throw it all together and twenty
- [Sustenance for the Long Road Ahead](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/04/sustenance-for-the-long-road-ahead/) - At the end of an interminable, depressing day in which I did my best to avoid all forms of news--except for the concession speech, which did little to assure me that we have anything but darkness on the horizon--I logged on to the only message board I frequent, one called indiebride. A friend turned me
- [Four (gulp) more years?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/03/four-gulp-more-years/) - The sun pours in my window as I write this. The cats sit in puddles of light. Outside, the guys at the garage next door bang on cars and shout in Polish. Traffic streams by on the BQE at a relatively fast clip. It's the same as it was yesterday, and yet I feel like
- [The Three Faces of Me: Fat Debbie](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/02/the-three-faces-of-me-fat-debbie/) - In my life I've shown three distinct faces to the world: Fat Debbie, Hot Debbie, and Debbie. Fat Debbie debuted before I turned three years old. According to my mother, she and my father were just so thrilled to have a little girl (my older brother preceded me by two years) that they could never
- [Baked Whole-Grain Penne & Roasted Eggplant](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/11/01/baked-whole-grain-penne-roasted-eggplant/) - When I have plenty of eggplant on hand and a few hours before dinner, this is one of my favorite things to make. The original model for it comes from Nancy Harmon Jenkins's Flavors of Puglia, a wonderful cookbook that's apparently out of print. I've adapted her recipe to use whole grain pasta, prepared sauce
- [Aww, Shucks...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/31/aww-shucks/) - It's sort of pathetic how obsessed I am already with this infant blog o'mine. Earlier today I was looking to see where my visitors were coming from and noticed a sudden flurry from Too Many Chefs, a smart, informative blog I've admired for some time (in fact, when I bought a mess of small potatoes
- [Some of My Favorite Ingredients](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/30/some-of-my-favorite-ingredients/) - In no particular order, here's what I find myself using a lot lately: Fig balsamic vinegar. Sometimes I'm tempted to eat this with a spoon. It's tart and sweet at the same time--really livens up a simple salad. Dried cherries Pecans Nonstick cooking spray Pine nuts Fox's U-Bet chocolate syrup--the one and only, what I
- [A Most Exciting Development (Well, Two of Them, Actually)](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/29/a-most-exciting-development-well-two-of-them-actually/) - I've been avidly reading about the various Is My Blog Burning events for some time now. The launch of Words to Eat By barely missed the last one (terrines) so I've been anxiously awaiting word of the next theme. Just yesterday, though, I discovered an event that speaks even more directly to my candy-coated heart:
- [The Biggest Loser](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/28/the-biggest-loser/) - When I first heard that NBC had created a reality show about weight loss I cringed, and something tells me I wasn’t the only one. Reality shows (the ones on network TV, that is) strike me as being inherently degrading to begin with. But inviting America to watch (and snigger at) a group of obese
- [Mmm, Popovers](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/27/mmm-popovers/) - S and I got married in May. We figured we'd take a nice long honeymoon in the fall, after we'd had a chance to recover from all the wedding frenzy and settle in a bit. Not to mention that we couldn't afford much more than a weekend on the Jersey shore... But then I got
- [Hey, if it's good enough for Francois Payard...](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/27/hey-if-its-good-enough-for-francois-payard/) - Just stumbled across this in the new New York Magazine: The Candy Bar Taste Test. They blindfolded pastry god Payard and fed him exactly the kinds of candy I've been so tempted by lately. Results are, predictably, mixed, but I'm surprised at how much good he had to say. His winners: Dove Milk Chocolate (though
- [The Threat Down the Hall](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/26/the-threat-down-the-hall/) - This week I'm wrapping up a 3-month freelance gig, filling in while someone's on maternity leave. While I can't say I love working 9-5 (the shlep on the subway, the work-appropriate clothing, the alarm clock, the rules that govern pretty much everything in corporate life whether we realize it or not...) the money's been nice
- [Roasted Vegetable Barley Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/25/roasted-vegetable-barley-soup/) - There's a small, but pretty good, farmer's market on Saturdays in a scruffy park near my apartment, and now that the weather's turned so has the produce. Last weekend I made the mistake of buying some tomatoes, thinking if they were fresh from the farm they might still be pretty good. No. Tart and mealy,
- [Why read me?](https://debbiekoenig.com/2004/10/24/why-read-me/) - Does the world really need another blog? And one about food (among other things)? Maybe not, but here's a list of reasons why I've created Words to Eat By: The urge to write, and cook, is not new to me—I've been writing fiction since high school, where I was an earnest, quiet, fat kid, baking

## Pages

- [Home](https://debbiekoenig.com/) - Hi. I’m Debbie Koenig, an experienced freelance writer for hire. I help people take care of themselves.
- [Portfolio](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio/)
- [About me](https://debbiekoenig.com/about/)
- [More Recipes](https://debbiekoenig.com/blog/more-recipes/)
- [Parents Need to Eat Too](https://debbiekoenig.com/cookbook/)
- [Feature Writing](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio/feature-writing/)
- [Recipe Development](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio/recipe-development/)
- [Content Writing](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio/content-writing/)
- [Sample Page](https://debbiekoenig.com/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger
- [Work with me](https://debbiekoenig.com/contact/)
- [Blog](https://debbiekoenig.com/blog/)

## Portfolio Items

- [The Best Butter Substitute, Plus 5 Other Healthy Fat Swaps](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-best-butter-substitute-plus-5-other-healthy-fat-swaps/) - Swapping butter for healthier fats might be one of the simplest changes you can make for your health.
- [6 Vital Facts About Compounded GLP-1 Medications](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/6-vital-facts-about-compounded-glp-1-medications/) - The easiest — and cheapest — way to get a prescription for popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs these days is to go online.
- [Do I Experience Food Noise?](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/do-i-experience-food-noise/) - But if food thoughts feel unstoppable, distract you from important things, or interfere with your daily life, they may have crossed the line into food noise.
- [The Truth About Collagen, Peptides, Elastin and Lipids](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-truth-about-collagen-peptides-elastin-and-lipids/) - Rapid weight loss may trigger an unwelcome side effect: loose, excess skin.
- [Why we crave ‘comfort food’](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/why-we-crave-comfort-food/) - Nostalgia plays a big role in the meals that bring us solace — which mean we might be able to recondition ourselves toward healthier foods that still soothe
- [Is Multitasking Bad for Your Brain?](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/is-multitasking-bad-for-your-brain/) - How your brain handles divided attention
- [3 Ways You’re Misreading the Nutrition Facts Label](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/3-ways-youre-misreading-the-nutrition-facts-label/) - Even if you’re a seasoned food label reader, you’re probably making at least one of these mistakes.
- [Fatigue Is Finally a Surgical Safety Issue](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/fatigue-is-finally-a-surgical-safety-issue/) - We may finally be waking up to the sleep problem in surgery.
- [The Right Way to Fibermaxx](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/8498/) - It even has its own TikTok-driven trend, fibermaxxing: eating strategically to meet or exceed the recommended daily amount.
- [5 Reasons to Host a Winter Event](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/5-reasons-to-host-a-winter-event/) - Anybody can throw a party in spring, summer, or fall. But winter? That's when the real opportunities emerge.
- [25 Great Ways to Get More Protein in Your Diet](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/25-great-ways-to-get-more-protein-in-your-diet/) - As we age, our bodies need a steady supply of protein.
- [How to Step Up Your Grilling Game](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/how-to-step-up-your-grilling-game/) - A backyard grill is the home cook’s secret weapon.
- [How Much Does a New York City Wedding Cost in 2026? Two Real Budget Examples](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/how-much-does-a-new-york-city-wedding-cost-in-2026-two-real-budget-examples/) - Memorable weddings aren’t defined by budget alone. You can have a wedding that reflects who you are at virtually any price point.
- [7 Healthy, Fun Fall Foods to Try](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/7-healthy-fun-fall-foods-to-try/) - From sweet potatoes to persimmons, these colorful, cozy picks are bursting with flavor and health perks. Plus we have simple, delicious recipes to help you enjoy them
- [5 things to know about bone health as you age](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/5-things-to-know-about-bone-health-as-you-age/) - A strong skeleton helps keep you vital. Here’s how to prevent bone loss at any age.
- [Surgery helped her become a normal teenager](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/surgery-helped-her-become-a-normal-teenager/) - Savanna didn’t know it, but Crohn’s disease had been stealing her life.
- [A journey to hope](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/a-journey-to-hope/) - David Lopez flew across the country for world-class neurosurgical expertise he couldn’t get at home.
- [This 20-Minute Dinner Is So Easy, My Teenager Makes It Every Week](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/this-20-minute-dinner-is-so-easy-my-teenager-makes-it-every-week/) - This one, for the easiest chicken fajitas you can make at home, has become a much-loved family favorite.
- [These Make-Ahead Latkes Are the Secret to a Stress-Free Hanukkah](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/these-make-ahead-latkes-are-the-secret-to-a-stress-free-hanukkah/) - Every Jewish family has a latke person—the cook who knows how to achieve latkes with maximum crunch, meltingly soft centers, and the ideal balance of potato-onion-salt flavor.
- [Foundations Rethink Research Dollars as Funding Is Pulled](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/foundations-rethink-research-dollars-as-funding-is-pulled/) - This spring the notices came without warning: Federal funding for thousands of approved research projects, many already under way, had been delayed or canceled.
- [Why ‘Healthy’ Food Labels Fool Even Savvy Shoppers](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/why-healthy-food-labels-fool-even-savvy-shoppers/) - May 14, 2025 — Even health-conscious WebMD readers can be fooled at the grocery store.
- [Quick, Tasty Breakfast Ideas](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/quick-tasty-breakfast-ideas/) - A collection of family-friendly recipes using bagels and English muffins made by Thomas'. They appeared on Allrecipes.com.
- [The New York Philharmonic Is Helping Harlem 'Take a Breath'](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-new-york-philharmonic-is-helping-harlem-take-a-breath/) - "What does it look like when a church, a famous performing arts group, and a healthcare organization come together?” Rev. Dr. Malcolm Byrd, senior pastor at Mother AME Zion Church in Harlem, asked himself that question as he sought a new way to soothe and enlighten his community. The answer was found through a collaboration with the New York Philharmonic and Northwell Health: Take a Breath, the series on which the three organizations are partnering, which kicks off February 9.
- [5 Surprising Health Benefits of Watermelon](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-watermelon/) - AARP.org Few things are more refreshing than crisp, juicy watermelon on a hot summer’s day. But don’t think of it as just an emblem of warm-weather fun. Consider it a dietary powerhouse. Watermelon is packed with nutrients that can make a big difference as you age, including some you won’t find more of in any other fresh fruit or vegetable.
- [Pennsylvania Mill Works to Develop Flour with a Taste of History](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/pennsylvania-mill-works-to-develop-flour-with-a-taste-of-history/) - It has taken Dave Poorbaugh almost 10 years to get back to the 1740s. Maybe that’s because instead of a DeLorean, his time machine is the historic Annville Flouring Mill in Lebanon County, Pa., which he says is the oldest continually operating flour mill in the country. President of the company that owns the mill, Poorbaugh is a genial history buff who relishes telling tales of his own Colonial lineage. And with this summer’s harvest of 35 acres of heritage wheat, it looks as if he’ll finally taste the bread of his fore¬fathers.
- [The Food Writer and Her Picky Eater](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-food-writer-and-her-picky-eater/) - Some children are omnivorous, equally enthusiastic for broccoli and brownies. Mine, on the other hand, is non-nivorous. For almost five years now, since he turned 2, Harry’s will-eat list has allowed fruit, snacky things, plain pasta with olive oil, yogurt and mozzarella (shredded only, thank you very much), and sometimes chicken. Oh, and hot dogs. His favorite “vegetables”: olives and capers.
- [You Cooked What? I’ll Trade You Granola!](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/you-cooked-what-ill-trade-you-granola/) - The kombucha guy was doing it wrong, and so was I. By the time Rich Awn, the owner of the one-man tea-and-coffee brewery Mombucha, arrived at the food swap in a TriBeCa apartment building, the table brimmed with inventive homemade goods, including vodka infused with the needles from an organic Christmas tree. Next to each offering was a green placard where swappers could “bid” — I had already scribbled my name and my offer (chocolate-chip cookies, Samoa bars and granola) on cards for Meyer lemon curd and a few other enticing treats.
- [I’m a Food Writer and a Mom and I’m Here to Tell You: Food Writers Lie](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/im-a-food-writer-and-a-mom-and-im-here-to-tell-you-food-writers-lie/) - This essay was selected for the Best Food Writing Anthology. Food writers are lying to you. In our quest to inspire people to cook, we offer images of glorious plates of food, dramatically lit, propped with carefully-chosen cloth napkins and color-coordinated dishes, with the most adorable little trail of crumbs to suggest that someone’s actually eating this slice of perfection. My dinner plate never looks like that anywhere but the computer screen, on a really good day. In real life it’s chipped, with maybe some sauce spilling over an edge onto the crumpled paper napkin.
- [Grace Farris Wants to Talk About Her Air Fryer](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/grace-farris-wants-to-talk-about-her-air-fryer/) - As a doctor and the mom of two young boys, Grace Farris was busy enough. But she’d always drawn for fun, and eventually her illustrator’s eye turned to sketching vignettes of daily life with two children under 5. In 2017, she began to share her comics with friends as @coupdegracefarrison Instagram. You can probably guess what happened next:
- [6 Gross (but Common!) Conditions Parents Don’t Talk About](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/6-gross-but-common-conditions-parents-dont-talk-about/) - Though most parents know that catching something like molluscum, ringworm, or scabies has nothing to do with the cleanliness of their house or their kids, they still feel embarrassed. And unfortunately, that self-consciousness can be a powerful silencer that gives germs time to infect others.
- [Small Plates “What to Cook This Week”](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/small-plates-what-to-cook-this-week/) - My weekly column for the site’s “Small Plates” vertical, aimed at busy parents. It features five weeknight dinner menus of kid-friendly dishes, including recipes, time-saving tips, and creative ways to repurpose leftovers.
- [Special Report: The Future of Food](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/special-report-the-future-of-food/) - (I wrote the entire package: 10 articles, 13,000 words) Sixty years ago, The Jetsons imagined that in the future, we’d be eating meals in pill form. That hasn’t come to pass – yet. So what (and how) do experts think we’ll be eating 30, 40, 50 years from now?
- [Surprising Health Benefits of Potatoes](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/surprising-health-benefits-of-potatoes/) - AARP.org Pity the poor potato. Even though it’s the most commonly consumed vegetable in the United States, it’s gotten a bad rap. Which makes sense in some ways — deep-fried french fries and potato chips account for a lot of that consumption. Headlines link them to obesity and type 2 diabetes. But dig a little deeper, and a different picture emerges.
- [Yes, There Is a Secret Formula for Weight Loss. This Is It](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/yes-there-is-a-secret-formula-for-weight-loss-this-is-it/) - Their secret to weight loss is probably not what you think: It’s personal.
- [How to Know If a Scary Health Headline Is Legit](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/how-to-know-if-a-scary-health-headline-is-legit/) - April 14, 2025 — If you heard that Girl Scout cookies are toxic, that mRNA vaccines can harm you, or that immigrants are spreading tuberculosis in the U.S., maybe you should put down your phone.
- [The Chronic Line On… Anti-Inflammatory Diets](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-chronic-line-on-anti-inflammatory-diets/) - Chronic inflammation is behind more health problems than you might think—from stiff joints and gum issues to serious conditions like heart disease and cancer. While many things can spark inflammation in your body, what you eat plays a big role. So, can you reduce inflammation just by changing your diet?
- [The Era of Compounded GLP-1 Drugs Is Over. What Now?](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-era-of-compounded-glp-1-drugs-is-over-what-now/) - Now that the US Food and Drug Administration has removed both tirzepatide and semaglutide from its Drug Shortages List, the widespread compounding of these drugs is ending.
- [The Greenhouse Effect](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/the-greenhouse-effect/) - A nonprofit program is installing 100 hydroponic greenhouse labs in New York City public schools.
- [Garden Variety](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/garden-variety/) - If you love heirloom tomatoes or unusual veggies, you may have this farm to thank.
- [Non-Sugar Sweeteners & Obesity](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/non-sugar-sweeteners-obesity/) - For certain people with obesity, even unfunded research finds short-term use of these sweeteners to be safe and effective for weight loss. So what do you tell your patients?
- [Signs You Have Hypoglycemia](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/signs-you-have-hypoglycemia/) - HealthCentral.com If you’ve ever felt drunk—like, a little off-balance or unable to keep your thoughts straight—without drinking a drop of alcohol, you may have experienced hypoglycemia. That’s the official name for low blood sugar, which happens when the glucose in your blood falls below a certain level. It’s usually a quick fix, but in some circumstances, it can be serious, even life-threatening.
- [Yummly How-Tos, Roundups, and Recipes](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/yummly-author-page/) - I write food stories for Yummly.com several times a month, dozens of pieces over the years on everything from meal planning to hot dogs to the health benefits of fiber. Original recipes, too.
- [Do You Know Your Macros?](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/do-you-know-your-macros/) - Surprise: carbs aren’t the only nutrients that matter when you have diabetes. It’s helpful to understand the main type of macronutrients—also known as macros—that constitute any diet: carbohydrates, protein and fat. Dietary recommendations for people with diabetes mirror those for everyone else, with some key differences.
- [Good Carb, Bad Carb: Do You Know the Difference?](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/good-carb-bad-carb-do-you-know-the-difference/) - Which do you think will raise your blood sugar more gently: Eating a whole orange or downing a glass of orange juice? The answer comes down to the quality of the carbohydrates in each. High-quality carbs contain more fiber, which helps slow your digestion and, in turn, keeps your blood sugar from spiking. Low-quality carbs have usually been processed or refined in some way, which may strip away most of that helpful fiber. This means that, in this example—you guessed it—the whole orange is the way to go.
- [Nora Pouillon: Lifetime Achievement Award Winner](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/nora-pouillon-lifetime-achievement-award-winner/) - Profile for the James Beard Foundation: When Nora Pouillon decided to pursue organic certification for Restaurant Nora, her charming Washington, D.C., eatery, restaurant certification didn’t exist. So she invented it. “Back then she was the only person emphasizing that as the first and foremost quality of her cuisine,” says Patrick O’Connell, chef-proprietor of the Inn at Little Washington and a fellow leading advocate of local sourcing. Working with certifier Oregon Tilth, Pouillon spent two years establishing standards, and in 1999, with 95 percent of her ingredients certified organic, Restaurant Nora became the first officially certified restaurant in the United States. “She continued until it became not only fashionable but essential. And others followed,” adds O’Connell.
- [Joan Dye Gussow: Leadership Award Winner](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/joan-dye-gussow-leadership-award-winner/) - Profile for the James Beard Foundation: At 89 years old, Joan Dye Gussow doesn’t hesitate to claim her place within the food movement. “I was completely a renegade nutritionist when I entered the field,” she says. “I was talking about things that nobody else talked about, connecting the food system with eating.” Five decades after she joined the nutrition program at Teachers College, Columbia University, Gussow is still teaching there, still speaking out about flaws in the food system—and still inspiring a growing roster of food activists to follow in her footsteps.
- [Your Kid Grows Up Fast. Here Are 3 Clever Ways Amazon Kids+ Keeps Up](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/your-kid-grows-up-fast-here-are-3-clever-ways-amazon-kids-keeps-up/) - Infographic for Amazon Kids+ and The Foundry at Meredith: Preschoolers and middle schoolers don’t share a whole lot of interests. Here’s how to keep them entertained as they learn, no matter how old they are.
- [No Stopping Her Now](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/no-stopping-her-now/) - Patient testimonial for Northwell Health and Onward Publishing: With her bouncy red curls and sunny disposition, 7-year-old Meghan Fogarty has a big personality. The outgoing little girl started Irish dancing at age 4, but now also enjoys ballet and tap, and playing soccer, too. “I look at her now and think, ‘Wow, what did we go through?’” said her mom, Kareen, of Commack, NY. “I call her my miracle child.”
- [Weight loss surgery gave Michael a new zest for life](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/weight-loss-surgery-gave-michael-a-new-zest-for-life/) - Patient testimonial for Northwell Health and Onward Publishing: Growing up in a restaurant family, Michael Mancuso started working around food young. While his customers might be eating at 7pm, he wolfed down food late at night, after the crowd died down. That unhealthy pattern continued after he got married and became a father—his family often ate fast food and takeout. Michael, now 44 and living in Glen Cove, NY, went from being a big kid to an obese man. At 350 pounds, he suffered numerous health problems, and took many medications.
- [Cooking Up the Magic of Encanto](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/cooking-up-the-magic-of-encanto/) - Imagine a place where the coffee pot pours itself; warm, freshly made arepas (cornmeal cakes) have healing powers; and magic is everywhere. That’s life in the Encanto, a special place that’s the home of the extraordinary Madrigal family. Every member of the family has a unique gift, from super strength to the power to heal. Every member except Mirabel, that is. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope.
- [weightwatchers.com](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/weightwatchers-com/) - Weight Watchers International For over 10 years, I wrote blog posts and content and developed recipes for Weight Watchers' website. Here is a sampling.
- [Let's Talk Turkey](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/lets-talk-turkey/) - Don't fear the fowl! Here's everything you need to know to pick, prep, and cook a top-notch, plan-friendly turkey.
- [How to Crush the Farmers' Market](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/learn-to-love-ugly-fruits-and-vegetables/) - While it's easy to make a visit to your local farmers' market more of a social event than a shopping trip (no judgment!), these expert tips from farmers and market managers at three of the country's top spots will help you navigate it like a pro.
- [14 Food Myths You Shouldn’t Believe](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/14-food-myths-you-shouldnt-believe/) - Some of these have a kernel of truth, and others are completely made up. We take a look, and bring the science.
- [6 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Get on Amazon Kids+](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/6-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-get-on-amazon-kids/) - Flipcards for Amazon Kids+ and The Foundry at Meredith: From books and movies to educational apps and games, captivate your kids with screen time you can feel good about.
- [Healthwise](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/healthwise/) - Community newsletter for Elmhurst Hospital and Onward Publishing: Six to eight stories per issue, including interviews with key hospital staff and patients and healthy lifestyle advice.
- [Mujadarah](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/mujadarah/) - Epicurious: Lentils, rice, olive oil, and onions—this Middle Eastern standard is the ultimate pantry recipe. It’s also the classic example of a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. There are literally dozens of recipes for mujadara out there—each country, possibly even each family, seems to have its own version.
- [Cast-Iron Mac & Cheese](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/cast-iron-mac-cheese/) - Epicurious: Mac and cheese can be a time-consuming proposition. My version is on the table in just about 30 minutes total. The spark for this recipe came from my friend Taryn, who casually combines ingredients without using a particular formula. She goes by feel, adding handfuls of cheese and spoonfuls of flour until the mixture feels right. Then she stirs in the cooked macaroni, pours everything into a casserole dish, and runs it under the broiler for a few minutes. The blast of heat creates an instant crust—no need for breadcrumbs.
- [Chicken (Pot) Handpies](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/chicken-pot-handpies/) - Epicurious Ingredients 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped into 1/4 inch pieces Substitute 1/2 cup thawed frozen corn kernels here, if you prefer. Add with the carrot and celery in Step 2. 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 carrot, quartered lengthwise and chopped 1 celery rib, halved lengthwise and chopped 4 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, chopped Got some cooked chicken? Add it with the potatoes in step 3 instead. Salt and pepper1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 2 unbaked pie crusts, either store bought or homemade (not pie shells) 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
- [Layered Southern Dip](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/layered-southern-dip/) - Weight Watchers: Ingredients 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, defrosted 2/3 cup uncooked bell pepper, chopped 2/3 cup uncooked celery, chopped 2/3 cup plum tomatoes, chopped 1/4 cup uncooked red onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 tsp red wine vinegar 1tsp olive oil 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided 1/4 tsp table salt, divided 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (packed in water), drained, finely chopped 1/2 cup plain low fat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup low fat cream cheese, softened 2 medium uncooked scallions, whites finely chopped, greens chopped, separated 1/4 tsp paprika, smoked variety 1 cup Weight Watchers Reduced Fat Mexican style blend shredded cheese 3 slices cooked turkey bacon, crisp, crumbled
- [Grilled Cod Fillets with Lemon-Dill Butter](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/grilled-cod-fillets-with-lemon-dill-butter/) - Weight Watchers: Don’t be intimidated by grilling fish. A layer of lemon slices is all you need to prevent the fish from sticking to the grate.
- [Teriyaki Salmon Cakes](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/teriyaki-salmon-cakes/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients 1 8 ounce can pineapple chunks, drained 1 avocado, peeled, seeded and chopped 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro Reserved cooked salmon, thawed (12 oz.) 2/3 cup panko bread crumbs 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions 2 tablespoons bottled teriyaki sauce 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- [Savory Beef Potpie](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/savory-beef-potpie/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed Reserved roast beef, thawed (about 1 lb.) 12 ounces frozen pearl onions 12 ounces frozen peas & carrots 2 tablespoons olive oil 12 ounces button mushrooms, sliced 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed 1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. flour 2 1/4 cups unsalted beef stock 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 egg, beaten with 1 Tbs. water
- [Butternut Apple Soup](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/butternut-apple-soup/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients 1 3 – 4 pound butternut squash, halved and seeded 1 large tart apple, cored, peeled, and halved 1 large onion, halved 4 cups unsalted vegetable or chicken stock 1 tablespoon mild curry powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons shelled pumpkin seeds, toasted (optional)
- [Apple Sausage Mac & Cheese](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/apple-sausage-mac-cheese/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients 3 cups elbow macaroni 4 ounces fully-cooked chicken & apple sausage, halved lengthwise and sliced 2 tablespoons plus 2 tsp. olive oil, divided 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups low-fat milk 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard 4 cups torn romaine lettuce 1 medium apple, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1/8 teaspoon salt
- [Roasted Root Vegetables Salad](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/roasted-root-vegetables-salad/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients 4 strips thick-cut bacon 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 cups weekend-prepped barley 1 cup weekend-prepped root vegetables 1/4 cup pecans, toasted 4 eggs
- [Tortilla Chip Fish](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/tortilla-chip-fish/) - Parents magazine: Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 6 ounces lime-flavored tortilla chips, crushed into crumbs 1 egg, beaten 4 four-ounces tilapia fillets 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 2 limes, one juiced and one quartered 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 ten-ounce package broccoli-slaw mix Salsa (optional)
- [Homemade Taco & Chili Seasoning Mix](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/homemade-taco-chili-seasoning-mix/) - Today.com: Those big batches take about five minutes to throw together (you’re just measuring a bunch of spices, then stirring). Each portion costs less than the packaged varieties, and it doesn’t have any of the extra ingredients you might find in a store-bought mix (anti-caking agents and preservatives? I think not). Plus, the basic mixture works for both tacos and chili. The only difference is in the preparation: Chili gets canned tomatoes and beans and a bit of cocoa powder, which adds depth and richness, while tacos get a splash of vinegar and a touch of brown sugar, giving them an irresistible sweet-hot tang.
- [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/bbq-chicken-pizza/) - Today.com: I never read the menu when I go to California Pizza Kitchen. There’s no need, since I already know what I want: The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza. The tangy-spicy-sweet sauce, the gooey cheese, the chunks of tender chicken… It’s about as far from an authentic pizza as you can get, yet somehow it all works.
- [Beet Brownies](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/beet-brownies/) - Today.com: It used to drive me crazy: I’d send my son off to school with a balanced, healthy lunch, but as often as not, the lunchbox came home with carrot sticks untouched. I tried hard to resist the urge to cajole, confront, or criticize him—pressure usually backfires. Instead, I got a little creative. I don’t mean that I sneak vegetables into his food, mostly because it seems unlikely that he’ll ever want to eat a vegetable if he doesn’t realize he’s enjoyed them already. Transformation is the key; make it into something else, even a different shape, and it’s much more appealing.
- [Hash Brown Crusted Quiche](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/hash-brown-crusted-quiche/) - Today.com: Lorraine is the OG quiche: This simple combo of eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon launched a thousand variations. And why not? It’s elegant enough for brunch with the in-laws, easy enough for a weeknight dinner—and thanks to that bacon, appealing enough for even the pickiest eater. There’s something so comforting about a warm slice of custardy-cheesy-salty pie. This version, baked in a crust made of shredded potatoes, is gluten-free and perfectly satisfying. Add a green salad or roast some veggies while the quiche cools and you’ve got yourself a meal.
- [Gingerbread Steel-Cut Oatmeal](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/gingerbread-steel-cut-oatmeal/) - Fine Cooking: Rich with molasses and warming spices, this oatmeal brings to mind old-fashioned gingerbread. A quick boil at night and an overnight lounge in the fridge means the notoriously slow-cooking grains need only 10 minutes of simmering. Serve with a drizzle of cream and, if you like, chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts.
- [Moroccan Chicken Summer Rolls with Spicy Orange Dipping Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/moroccan-chicken-summer-rolls-with-spicy-orange-dipping-sauce/) - Weight Watchers: Ingredients 5 Tbsp fresh orange juice, divided 2 Tbsp rice vinegar 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 tsp honey 1/2 tsp harissa paste 1⁄3 cup water 1⁄2 tsp table salt 1⁄2 cup uncooked whole wheat couscous 1 Tbsp chives, finely chopped 1⁄2 tsp orange zest 8 rice paper wrappers 1⁄2 cup fresh mint leaves 1 medium cucumber, seeded, cut in 4‐in strips 3 medium blood oranges, or Cara Cara, seedless, peeled and sectioned 8 oz cooked skinless boneless chicken breast, cut in 16 strips 1 cup arugula
- [Asian Wheat Berry Bowl](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/asian-wheat-berry-bowl/) - Weight Watchers: Wheat berries are a wonderful but underused grain, that’s a little like brown rice with a texture more similar to barley.
- [Gut Check: Why and How to Build a Healthy Gut](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/gut-check-why-and-how-to-build-a-healthy-gut/) - Research suggests that when it comes to diabetes, two types of bacteria that live in your gut play key roles.
- [Get Your Health Claims Covered](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/get-your-health-claims-covered/) - Appealing a claim denial isn't hard--and preventing the denial in the first place is even easier.
- [Farm to Pharmacy](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/farm-to-pharmacy/) - In the heart of coal country, one medical center is taking the phrase "food as medicine" literally.
- [Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Booklet](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/center-for-the-prevention-of-cardiovascular-disease-booklet/) - At the NYU Langone Health Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, we take a multidisciplinary approach to preventing and treating the single greatest threat to human health: heart disease.
- [Smart Pantry Dinner Ideas for Easy Weeknight Meals](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/smart-pantry-dinner-ideas-for-easy-weeknight-meals/) - Just when you think life can't get any busier, it does. Rather than running to the store to pick up a few items at a time, stock your pantry and freezer with staples that you can use in a variety of ways. Here are eight ideas for dinners that are real crowd-pleasers.
- [Sausage and Egg Enchiladas with Tomatillo Sauce](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/sausage-and-egg-enchiladas-with-tomatillo-sauce/) - Fine Cooking: Tortillas stuffed with spicy chorizo, scrambled eggs, and potatoes are topped off with a tangy tomatillo sauce and melted cheese for a breakfast that will keep you warm all day. The heat level on this dish is adjustable—if you prefer a milder dish, use only half a jalapeño in the sauce and leave out the green chiles.
- [Overnight Dried Cherry & Coconut Granola](https://debbiekoenig.com/portfolio-item/overnight-dried-cherry-coconut-granola/) - Fine Cooking: Wake up to a fresh batch of cardamom-scented granola, which becomes crisp overnight in the cooling oven. It’s delicious with almonds, pistachios, and dried cherries, but you can use any nuts and dried fruit you like. Serve with yogurt or milk.

## Modules

- [Updated Work with me](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/updated-work-with-me-2/)
- [Portrait credits](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/portrait-credits/) - Photo credit: Jeanne Sager Photography
- [Photo credits 1](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/photo-credits-1/) - Photo credits: Jeanne Sager Photography, OlgaVolkovitskaia, Debbie Koenig, National Cancer Institute
- [Services – Pricing Tables](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/services-pricing-tables/) - Parents Need to Eat Too Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals, and Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents (William Morrow) “Even if you never make a single recipe from her book—a mistake, thank you—it’s certain to become a dog-eared bible. Reread that title. The book savvily and sassily helps you extend the efficiency of any time spent
- [Content Writing (Selected Samples)](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/feature-and-essay-writing-selected-samples-3/) - Parents Need to Eat Too Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals, and Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents (William Morrow) “Even if you never make a single recipe from her book—a mistake, thank you—it’s certain to become a dog-eared bible. Reread that title. The book savvily and sassily helps you extend the efficiency of any time spent
- [book columns](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/new-module-without-title-5/) - Parents Need to Eat Too Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals, and Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents (William Morrow) “Even if you never make a single recipe from her book—a mistake, thank you—it’s certain to become a dog-eared bible. Reread that title. The book savvily and sassily helps you extend the efficiency of any time spent
- [HP Book](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/hp-book/) - Parents Need to Eat Too Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals, and Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents (William Morrow) “Even if you never make a single recipe from her book—a mistake, thank you—it’s certain to become a dog-eared bible. Reread that title. The book savvily and sassily helps you extend the efficiency of any time spent
- [book text](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/book-text/) - Parents Need to Eat Too Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals, and Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents (William Morrow) “Even if you never make a single recipe from her book—a mistake, thank you—it’s certain to become a dog-eared bible. Reread that title. The book savvily and sassily helps you extend the efficiency of any time spent
- [Home – Text 1](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/home-text-1/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m a seasoned freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [blog menu links](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/new-module-without-title-4/) - most popular | more recipes
- [New Module Without Title](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/new-module-without-title-3/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” —a delighted client
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- [Most Popular](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/most-popular/)
- [Articles](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/articles/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” —a delighted client
- [About – Title About Me](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-title-about-me/) - About Debbie.
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- [About – Gallery](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-gallery/) - Hi. I’m Debbie Koenig, an experienced freelance writer for hire. I help people take care of themselves.
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- [Cookbook text](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/cookbook-text/) - Specifically designed for frazzled, sleep-deprived parents, every recipe in Parents Need to Eat Too: Nap-Friendly Recipes, One-Handed Meals & Time-Saving Kitchen Tricks for New Parents is nutritious, delicious, satisfying, and easy. As a bonus each recipe includes instructions for preparing baby food from the same ingredients. Plus every recipe has the added advantage of being
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- [About – Columns](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-columns/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Choose Your Bookseller links](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/new-module-without-title/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [New Module Without Title](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/new-module-without-title-2/)
- [Recipe Development (Selected Samples)](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/feature-and-essay-writing-selected-samples-2/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Feature and Essay Writing (Selected Samples)](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/feature-and-essay-writing-selected-samples/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Cookbook testimonial 3](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/cookbook-testimonial-2-2/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Cookbook testimonial 2](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/cookbook-testimonial-2/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Cookbook testimonial 1](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/cookbook-testimonial-1/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Cookbook Image](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/cookbook-image/)
- [Work with me – Header](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/work-with-me-header/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Content Testimonial](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/content-testimonial/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Recipe Testimonial](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/recipe-testimonial/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [Feature Testimonial](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/feature-testimonial/) - “I really don't know how you do it. [Editor] said to me that you nailed the tone and content of this story, and he's right. And you did it so fast!” — A delighted client
- [About – Image](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-image/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Choose your bookseller:](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/choose-your-bookseller/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Indiebound](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/indiebound/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
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- [Home – Services](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/home-services/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Home – Columns](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/home-columns/) - With a love of storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I’m an award-winning freelance food, health, and parenting writer, and the author of the cookbook Parents Need to Eat Too. My bylines have run in dozens of publications, including WebMD, Yummly, Epicurious, Parents, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and I’ve been
- [Home – Image](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/home-image/) - Hi. I’m Debbie Koenig, an experienced freelance writer for hire. I help people take care of themselves.
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- [Blog – Leadbox](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/blog-leadbox/)
- [About – CTA](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-cta/)
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- [About – Title How I Work](https://debbiekoenig.com/mods/about-title-how-i-work/) - how I work.
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## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://debbiekoenig.com/category/uncategorized/)
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## Tags

- [big batch cooking](https://debbiekoenig.com/tag/big-batch-cooking/)
- [vegs](https://debbiekoenig.com/tag/vegs/)
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- [attune](https://debbiekoenig.com/tag/attune/)
- [bread](https://debbiekoenig.com/tag/bread/)
- [cheese](https://debbiekoenig.com/tag/cheese/)

## Portfolio Categories

- [Feature Writing](https://debbiekoenig.com/filter/feature-writing/)
- [Content Writing](https://debbiekoenig.com/filter/content-writing/)
- [Recipe Development](https://debbiekoenig.com/filter/recipe-development/)
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- [Food & Family](https://debbiekoenig.com/filter/food-family/)