Ukrainian Borscht
This soup represents comfort food at its best. It is delicious and full of nutrients. The recipe will produce a large pot of soup. It will freeze well (without the sour cream) and can be defrosted on the stove very quickly.
Polish Kulebiak
Kulebiak originates from Russia but it is also traditionally baked as one of the dishes to celebrate Christmas Eve dinner in Poland (vegetarian, with mushrooms and cabbage)). This meat Kulebiak version is popular as a lunch/dinner dish in eastern Poland. It is not hard to make using ready puff pastry sheets. Served sliced, hot or cold with a side of salad.
Marble Cake With White Chocolate Glaze
Marble Cake is enjoyed and liked by many people. It is the white chocolate glaze that makes this recipe much more delicious. Do not skip making thie glaze, you will be pleasantly surprised. The recipe is based on the M. Stewart recipe from the “Baking Handbook”. Here is her recipe for the marble cake. The cake can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Broccoli Slaw with Sweet and Sour Vinaigrette
Broccoli Slaw with Sweet and Sour Vinaigrette has a very refreshing taste. The dressing perfectly partners otherwise plain taste of broccoli. Add some cilantro for additional sharpness.
Oven Pancake (German Pancake)
Great breakfast dish. Very showy and super easy to make. Delicious with just a dusting of confectioners’ sugar or with fruit.
Tomato Ricotta Tart
Tomato Ricotta Tart perfectly complements the taste of ripe tomatoes. This dish satisfies most tastes. Light but filling.
Chocolate Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Chocolate chocolate chip coffee cake is wonderful for all chocolate lovers. The small addition of jam makes it moist and light with an intense chocolate taste. The cake stays fresh for up to a week. It is very simple and quick to make.
Red Lentil Soup Turkish Style
Red Lentil Soup Turkish Style is very quick to make, yet the flavor is unforgettable. No wonder it is so popular in Turkey. Red lentils and rice soften and break down during cooking making it thick and delicious. The addition of chipotle chili pepper adds sharpness and smokiness to the soup.
Chicken Marsala
Chicken marsala recipe is an Italian classic that never disappoints. Fantastic blend of flavors-sweet Marsala wine, mushrooms and slightly picante seasonings. Great dish for all tastes. Family favorite.
Indian Moong Dal
Indian Moong Dal is a popular dish. Usually served with rice but can be offered as a side dish with meats or other vegetable dishes. Moong Dal (Mung beans) are a staple of Indian Cuisine. They are highly nutritious and easy to digest. In this recipe split Moong Dal (yellow in color) are used.
Soft Ricotta Dumplings
This is a perfect weekday meal that is also family friendly. It is light and filling. Takes very few ingredients to make and a very short time. The pairing of lightly salted dumplings with a sweet sauce is truly perfect. Simplicity at it’s best.
Chicken Cordon Bleu
“Cordon Bleu” means “blue ribbon” and the term applies to food prepared to a very high standard by outstanding cooks. This recipe originates from Switzerland and all of its variations involve a cutlet, cheese, and meat (usually ham). It is elegant and impressive but not hard to make.
Spinach Lasagna
Spinach lasagna is a tasty and flavorful variation of classic comfort food. Perfect pairing of spinach, onions and cheeses. Great family dish and delicious warmed up on the second or third day. Much lighter than traditional meat lasagna.
Green Split Pea Soup
One of the best cold weather soups. Smoked kielbasa pairs perfectly with green split peas. Comforting and delicious. The kind of comfort food that one cannot live without during the cold days of fall and winter.
Green Split Pea Soup Indian Style
Indian cuisine inspired green split pea soup is light (vegetarian) and nutritious.. The recipe infuses traditional green split pea flavor with coriander, turmeric and coconut milk. The outcome is delicious and completely unexpected. Great tasting soup with nice texture provided by split peas, onions and spinach. For an additional sharpness sprinkle it (right before serving) with a few drops of lemon juice.
French Roasted Whole Baby Potatoes
French roasted whole baby potatoes are one of the easiest and most delicious potato recipes you will ever try. They will complement any roast or meat with a sauce. They are crispy on the outside and meltingly soft on the inside. No seasonings necessary. Perfect for entertaining crowds as they can be prepared ahead of time and roasted just before dinner.
Sauteed Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Sauteed brussels sprouts with bacon will change the way you feel about eating brussels sprouts. They are crispy and flavorful. Perfect as a side dish or eaten alone.Taste great warm or cold and can be prepared ahead of time. Delicious and healthy.
Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup recipe has a long tradition originating in Spain. The name refers to the flavor resulting from mixing/marrying meat and greens. This version is delicate and delectable. Well seasoned ground chicken makes light broth and pairs wonderfully with fresh baby spinach. Family favorite, perfect for any time of year. Simple enough to be made frequently and ideal for freezing.
Slow Cooker Stuffed Cabbage
Slow cooker stuffed cabbage is comforting and it feeds the crowd. Perfectly seasoned with delicious tomato sauce. Great recipe originating in Poland adapted for slow cooker for convenience.
Apple Turnovers
Apple turnovers are perfect with a morning coffee. This is a simple and delicious recipe that uses very few ingredients. The flavor comes from apples without the use of cornstarch, pie spices or excess sugar. The result is an ideal breakfast pastry.
Popovers
Popovers are similar to Yorkshire Pudding. They are made out of four simple ingredients and are light and fluffy, ideal for a weekend or holiday breakfast. There are a few secrets to making the recipe bulletproof that you will find here.
Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is considered a French cuisine classic. Invented centuries ago it is still very popular in everyday cooking. Delicious warm or cold, simple to make. Usually enjoyed sprinkled with chives but different toppings like bacon or cheese work great too. This soup is an all time favorite and never goes out of style.
Classic Coleslaw
Classic coleslaw salad was invented by Dutch people. They called it Kool-cabbage Sla-salad. This recipe is quick and simple with just right amount of dressing. It will feel light and not over seasoned.
Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders make a fast and delicious weekday dinner. They are simple to prepare and always come out perfect. Family favorite, will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Vanilla Chocolate Chip Muffins
Vanilla chocolate chip muffin recipe was inspired by a bakery style giant muffins. They are light and soft in texture and not too sweet. Always tall with a wide muffin top. Pair well with a morning coffee!
Croatian Blitva
Blitva (meaning Swiss chard) is a traditional peasant dish from Croatia. Very popular, usually served as an addition to meat or fish. Can be enjoyed with a poached egg or eaten alone, warm or cold. Healthy and unforgettable.
Pesto with Walnuts and Pecorino
Pesto with walnuts and pecorino cheese is quick and simple. Ideal sauce for pasta, it can also add flavor to soups and meats. Mild and earthy walnuts pair well with with salty and easy to digest pecorino cheese. True staple of everyday cooking.
Old-Fashioned Plum Cake
This old-fashioned, simple plum cake is a winner at all parties. It is quick to make and always comes out right. There is no added sugar in the plums and that makes all the difference. Moist and flavorful, it will keep fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
Sour Cream Coffee Cake
This sour cream coffee cake is loved by all who taste it. The nut swirl adds flavor and moisture. Perfect dessert for a weekend afternoon or a potluck.
Pumpkin Bread
This is a very special pumpkin bread recipe. It comes from the “Joy of Cooking” book. The loaf can be made with any mushed squash, sweet potatoes, yams or pumpkin. What makes it truly unique is the addition of spices, nuts and dried fruit.
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft gingerbread cookies with honey and sour cream can be made up to two weeks before Christmas. They are irresistible and come out perfectly rolled thin or thick. They can be used for hanging on a Christmas tree. Seasoned with spices to satisfy both kids and adults. Cookies will stay fresh kept in an air tight container. The recipe makes 40-50 gingerbread cookies.
Beet Salad with Garlic and Mayo
Beet Salad with Garlic and Mayo is one of my best side dishes. Made with only three ingredients, it is sharp and flavorful. Great companion to fish or any meat dish. Definitely not your typical beet salad.
Curried Zucchini Soup
Curried zucchini soup is flavorful and comforting. Indian curry, cumin and chili pepper add edge and interest. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese, the soup is irresistible.
White Bean Spread
This spread is dedicated to all who are looking for variety and surprising flavors in their toasts and sandwiches. Made quickly with only three main ingredients, it overflows with a meaty flavor and great health benefits. It will last up to a week in the fridge.
Easter Bunny Babka
This new take on a traditional Easter Babka is elegant and refreshing. Simple to make and beautiful to serve.
Chicken Meatloaf
This exceptional chicken meatloaf recipe has been a favorite for many years. It is juicy and flavorful; perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion. The recipe has room for a few additions to suit different tastes. It can be divided into individual loaves or easily doubled. Just make sure to only make the quantity you want to bake.
Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes are fast and easy to make at home. They require very few ingredients and are delicious even without dipping sauce. They can be frozen raw, wrapped individually in a plastic foil. Sautéing frozen or fresh pancakes takes only minutes. The recipe is bulletproof and suitable for a beginner home cook.
Curried Chicken Salad
Curried chicken salad offers tasty variation on cold chicken salads. It is flavorful, yet delicate. Vegetables add texture and crunch without overpowering the taste. This is a crowd pleaser.
No Bake Chocolate-Vanilla Cheesecake
This no-bake chocolate-vanilla cheesecake is elegant and not too sweet. Perfect for holidays and special occasions. Can be served alone or with fresh fruit. It is simply irresistible.
Eggplant in Tomato Sauce
Eggplant in tomato sauce is uncomplicated and mouth-watering. This dish originates from Turkey and can be made ahead of time. It has a purely vegetarian taste and is light and flavorful. It is a family favorite.
Pumpkin Muffins
These pumpkin muffins are soft and full of flavor with just a hint of orange, cinnamon and nutmeg. They will lift your mood and will make you feel warm on a cold morning.
Apple Cake
This apple cake is so easy that a person with no baking experience will successfully make it. Additionally, this is a fast and delicious cake made with only a few ingredients. For me, this cake recipe serves as a last minute dessert or something I make when I have leftover apples that do not look too attractive anymore (the kind with wrinkled skin, etc.)
Old-Fashioned Brownies
Old-fashioned brownies are based on the recipe from the 1952 edition of “Joy of Cooking”. My family loves this cake and calls it “the best brownie we ever ate”. These “fudge squares” (as they were also called) are irresistibly chewy and delightfully chocolatey. This is as a result of the recipe using a significant amount of butter and real chocolate. The preparation is very quick and the batter should be baked in a shallow (9×13 inch) pan. The cake is not tall but it produces a natural crust. When it is cold, it needs to be cut into squares. The original recipe suggests 1 x 2 inch bars (54 in total).
Polish Fried Cabbage
Polish fried cabbage is prepared by stewing shredded cabbage in a small amount of water and then finishing it with a classic roux. This last touch is probably where the name “kapusta zasmażana” (fried cabbage) comes from. The roux (zasmażka) thickens the remaining liquid and makes the cabbage glisten. The dish is finished with a generous amount of fresh dill. This addition makes all the difference. The flavor is light, slightly sweet, and unforgettable. Traditionally, fried cabbage accompanies fried or roasted meats. In some regions of Poland, people make this cabbage with bacon or stewed meat. They serve it as a main dish with a side of mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Slow cooker beef stew is my family’s most favorite cold weather dish. The aromas, the richness of the sauce, and most importantly, tenderness and flavor of the beef are unforgettable and hunting. Slow cooking has a huge advantage in cooking beef as the long process always results in soft and juicy meat.
Ricotta Pancakes
Ricotta pancakes are light, fluffy, crunchy on the outside, and soft (almost custard like) and delicious on the inside. They originate from Ukraine and are traditionally made with farmer’s cheese. Making them with ricotta cheese provides a little bit lighter and less-dense texture. These pancakes are super quick to make and have a unique flavor …
Chocolate Pecan Banana Bread
Chocolate pecan banana bread is by far the best type of banana bread I have ever had. Surprisingly, it is lighter and less sticky than typical banana bread and, in my opinion, more flavorful and elegant-looking. In this recipe, there is a good balance of chocolate and nuts. Using half the amount of nuts than chocolate benefits the overall palette of this cake. Pecans can be substituted with walnuts with a slightly less mild taste. Additionally, rum can be added to spice it up a little, although many people will prefer it more mellow in taste.
Hunter’s Stew
Hunter’s stew, or Bigos as it is called in Poland, is a national Polish dish. It is very popular, and almost every family prepares it in their own way. All versions of Bigos have two main ingredients: sauerkraut and fresh cabbage. The rest varies and can include fresh and cured meats, kielbasa, dried mushrooms, prunes, …
Mandarin Orange Muffins
Mandarin orange muffins have a pleasantly subtle and light taste. They are not too sweet and pair well with a morning coffee. In my home, these muffins disappear on the same day they are made. The recipe is quick and requires very few ingredients that are basic. It uses mandarin oranges and their syrup, resulting …
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is one of the simplest and most delicious Italian dishes. The name means “hunter’s stew”. This is Italian comfort food at its best. I like to make this recipe with a combination of boneless chicken thighs and breast meat in a 1:1 ratio, all cut into bite-sized bits and seared quickly in olive oil. The reason for using different parts of the chicken is that thighs provide softer texture and extra fat, and breast meat is firm and often favored by people. The mixture of two is truly perfect in a stew.
Beet Salad with Onions
I love beets and this beet salad with onions is one of my favorite side salads. Served cold, it will complement any meat dish. The beets can be baked unpeeled the day before. Assembly is quick and simple. The onions add crunch and a bit of spice. For people who do not favor the intense …
Thai Mango Chicken Curry
The Thai Mango Chicken Curry dish came out of my love for mangoes. They are accessible, relatively inexpensive, and available throughout the year. In season from May to late August, they provide a super fresh, enjoyable flavor. The taste is always great and the benefits of eating them are significant as they contain vitamins C, …
