Every fall I pick and buy local apples by the box. But this year when area farmers were offering pears in bulk, I decided to give them a try too. Let me say that it’s a little scary to haul home 25 pounds of Asian pears — or beautifully sweet carrots or luscious ears ofContinue reading “Pear Spice Muffins”
Author Archives: christinanifong
Easier Than Ever to Eat Local for Thanksgiving
The evening skies got darker last Sunday and the weather in these parts took a turn for the raw, so there’s no denying winter is just around the corner. Which, mostly depresses me, but I can stay positive for the next few months as my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving, arrives and is quickly followed by theContinue reading “Easier Than Ever to Eat Local for Thanksgiving”
Black Bean Raspberry Dip
When your job entails writing for a lifestyle magazine, sometimes a local caterer will “spill the beans” and send a great recipe your way. So was the case with this tasty dip, which marries flavors I would never have thought to bring together. Roanoke’s Tracy Hamilton seeks out a special raspberry salsa to make thisContinue reading “Black Bean Raspberry Dip”
Where to Pick Your Own Apples
If you live in Southwest Virginia, here is a guide to nearby pick-your-own apple orchards. Did your favorite farm not make this list? Comment or message me and I’ll keep adding to make this directory as comprehensive as I can. Carter Mountain Orchard 1435 Carters Mountain Trail Charlottesville, VA 22902 434 977-1833 http://www.cartermountainorchard.com From SeptemberContinue reading “Where to Pick Your Own Apples”
Apples of Every Stripe
Apples and fall fit together like two perfectly matched puzzle pieces. Just as the air acquires its seasonal snap, the apples are weighing down their branches, beckoning us to come pick them. And just as temperatures begin their slide, our kitchens are ready for slow cookers and warm ovens, for soups and pies, for theContinue reading “Apples of Every Stripe”
Autumn’s Apple Cabbage Slaw
I have a thing for slaw. It maybe has something to do with my love for salads. Slaw is simply a great way to toss together lots of seasonal veggies and have the whole taste even better than the parts. It keeps well in the fridge. It’s already dressed. Slaws are big hits at potlucks. ThisContinue reading “Autumn’s Apple Cabbage Slaw”
Curried Parsnip and Apple Soup
Soup might be my very favorite way to eat parsnips, a root vegetable that’s cousin to a carrot and so much tastier than a potato. The texture of the softened parsnip purees nicely into a bowl full of creamy goodness. The apples in this bring out the parsnips’ sweet side and the curry complements itContinue reading “Curried Parsnip and Apple Soup”
Quinoa and Brown Rice Baked Apples
Baked apples have always been a fun way to eat dessert. Each eater has her own contained serving filled with warm, oozing deliciousness. Why, I wondered, can’t we do the same with dinner? There are a few recipes out there, mostly stuffing an apple shell with onions and sausage and sage. But I wasContinue reading “Quinoa and Brown Rice Baked Apples”
Appetizing Apple Chips
Need a garnish to make your table look pretty? Looking for something new to do with all those apples you brought home from the pick-your-own orchard? Want to transform your apples into the perfect backpacking food? Well, here you go. This method of slowly baking sliced apples in your oven is simple and fun. PlusContinue reading “Appetizing Apple Chips”
Simple Slow Cooker Applesauce
This recipe couldn’t be easier. But you wouldn’t believe how many people ooh and ahh over homemade applesauce. It’s so different from anything you pour from a jar. Following these steps will give you a sauce that lets the many, lovely flavors of apples truly shine — the cinnamon only works to bring out theContinue reading “Simple Slow Cooker Applesauce”