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Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Skillet
This is a mainstay of our kitchen. Really heavy, but absolutely dependable for even heat and great cooking. We use it every week with the matching lid. The skillet is the L10SK3, and the lid is the L10SC3. Be aware that the lid costs about as much as the skillet.
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Slow Cooked Salmon
This is delicious and easy. Prep is almost nothing, then you can go do something else while the salmon cooks. We make enough for two nights so we don’t have to cook the next night. It goes great with Cumin Rice and Roasted Green Beans.
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Mrs. Chiang’s Szechwan Cookbook
This is the book to get as a beginning Chinese cook, or even as a beginning cook. It’s beautifully written, explains all the ingredients & equipment, and provides background on each recipe. The directions are crystal clear and can be followed by anyone who can read. My kids were raised eating from this book, and…
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Cumin Brown Rice
We make this every week to go with our slow-cooked salmon. The garlic & cumin give it good flavor, but the salt is essential. The dish is very savory.
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Blind Faith Café
Vegetarian (not vegan) restaurant in Evanston, IL. We didn’t like their vegetables burgers, but other than that we’ve had very good food there. We have a couple of favorites that we order regularly as takeout when we’re feeling lazy about cooking.
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How to Cook Everything
by Mark Bittman Every recipe that I’ve tried is good, some are great, like the roasted chicken. The recipes are simple and quick to make, without exotic ingredients. The book is also filled with tips on things like how to use a chef’s knife, how to peel garlic, etc. I highly recommend this book!
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Earl’s Kitchen and Bar
Noisy but very good food and very good service. They paid attention to Vicki’s dietary restrictions and gave her something she really liked. My food was good too.
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Chicken with Hoisin Sauce
This is a classic from Mrs. Chiang’s Szechwan Cookbook. It’s pretty easy and everyone loves it. As with most Chinese dishes, it helps to have a sharp knife and be comfortable with it.
Food for family & friends