I first discovered rose petal syrup after seeing Pamela Sheldon Johns mention it on Facebook. Curious, I researched the process and decided to try it myself. Although I had previously made rose hip jam, I hadn’t considered using the petals. On our property we grow heirloom roses in shades from pale cream to deep crimson, … Read more

Leaving a smoker unattended can seem convenient, especially for long or overnight cooks, but it carries real risks. Grease fires, sudden temperature swings, weather changes, and equipment malfunctions can turn a routine cook into a dangerous situation. Whether it’s safe to leave a smoker alone depends on the type of smoker, the fuel source, the … Read more

You’ve never tried Instant Pot Lima Beans until you try this version made with cranberry-speckled Christmas Limas. This heirloom variety is large, attractive and easy to cook—the kind of dish that quickly becomes a family favorite. What are Christmas Lima Beans? Do I have to use an Instant Pot? What to do when ham is … Read more

The Macunaíma Drink is bold, straightforward, and surprisingly easy to make. With just four ingredients — cachaça, Fernet‑Branca, lime juice, and simple syrup — it delivers a “sour honey” profile with bright citrus, grassy cane spirit, balanced sweetness, and a bitter‑herbal finish. This recipe is adapted to make two servings. Why I Love the Macunaíma … Read more

Growing Peppers Like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide to a Wide Range of Peppers and Chiles Are you tired of the usual red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers from the grocery store? I was too, which is why I started growing a colorful, flavorful variety of peppers and chiles at home. This guide will … Read more

These puff pastry cinnamon rolls are quick and easy thanks to pre-made puff pastry. Finish them with a powdered sugar glaze or a cream cheese glaze for a perfect treat. Over the years I’ve tested many sweet roll recipes, from classic overnight cinnamon rolls to cranberry-orange and strawberry rolls. I love them all, but traditional … Read more

When I crave homemade cinnamon rolls but don’t have hours to spare, I make these cinnamon roll cookies. They capture the warm, buttery brown sugar and cinnamon flavor of a classic cinnamon roll in a soft, chewy cookie. Rather than rolling or swirling dough, this recipe uses a simple one-bowl sugar cookie base topped with … Read more

Step away from the usual mushrooms and onions and try a breakfast omelet with goat cheese and raspberries. It’s a refreshing change and one your family will likely love. Over the last few years I’ve simplified holiday cooking. I learned that being chained to the kitchen doesn’t make it a day off for the cook, … Read more

If you want a delicious way to use up leftover Christmas or Thanksgiving turkey, this turkey ragu is ideal. Serve it with pasta, potatoes, or rice, and you can freeze portions for quick meals later. Turkey is wonderful on the holiday table, but often there’s more cooked bird than anyone wants to eat immediately. This … Read more

This DIY gluten-free ice cream sandwich is the ideal summer treat: creamy dairy-free ice cream tucked between tender, cakey gluten-free chocolate layers. This post is sponsored by perfectly free. My Gluten Free Miami appreciates their support! I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream Few things say summer like ice cream. After my … Read more