A few weeks ago the gym class I attend had a luncheon and everyone who attended brought a dish to share. These women are fabulous cooks and tell the funniest stories. We laughed for hours and enjoyed delicious salads, fruit, … Continue reading
Who doesn’t like macaroni and cheese? From the time we were children until today, most of us love this comfort food. Macaroni and cheese is more than just food. There is an emotional connection between this dish and family memories. … Continue reading
Beef Stew marydukecooks.com The flavor of this beef stew is what makes it stand out. Layers of flavor are developed in the stew by browning both meat and vegetables. The brown bits left in the bottom of the pan make … Continue reading
Have you ever gone to a really fabulous Italian restaurant and tried to recreate their spaghetti sauce? For years I would come home and make sauces that just didn’t taste the same. I finally realized the type of canned tomatoes … Continue reading
marydukecooks.com Braised Greens Historically, a typical New Year’s Day meal in the south contained Hoppin’ John, greens, and cornbread. For generations of Southerners; the meal symbolized financial prosperity and good luck. The peas used in Hoppin’ John were dependent on … Continue reading
This soft sugar cookie has a thick, rich icing. This recipe calls for cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Cake flour makes the cookies soft and tender. Perfect for busy moms, these beautiful and simply decorated cookies use a cookie … Continue reading
marydukecooks.com Praline Chocolate Crunch This is my family’s favorite candy. I keep the freezer stocked from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day! Praline Chocolate Crunch (Christmas Crack)40 saltine crackers1 cup unsalted butter1/4 teaspoon iodized salt1 cup packed light brown sugarOne (12 … Continue reading
This is a story from when my three year old grand nephew, Reed, visited at Christmas. He was just beginning to figure out who Santa and the elves are. This was our conversation. Reed says, “My Elf’s name is Kringle … Continue reading
Many factors go into making the ultimate cinnamon roll. First, you want a cinnamon roll that is moist and won’t be rock hard the next day. The Japanese have solved this problem by using a Tanzhong. Tanzhong is a mixture … Continue reading
Volunteerism. Home town. Johnson City. Good books. Random thoughts.
Bartlett TN Family & Children Photographer
Mary Duke Cooks! 