This blog was originally posted on my work website, The Bent Fork. Therefore, it refers to this blog as “my personal blog,” which might be a little confusing.
It’s the time of year for looking back and reflecting on what we did in 2011. I can say I did a whole lot of cooking.
Last year around this time, I posted a list of what I learned about food in 2010. I learned a lot in 2011 — cooking is a never-ending process of learning — however, this year, as I spent a lot more time developing and testing recipes, I thought it would be more appropriate to reminisce about my favorite dishes of the year. Just click on the link below, and you’ll find the full recipe.
Beef Bourguignon: One of the most recent recipes I made, this mouthwatering classic will be on regular rotation, for sure.
Beef Stroganoff: The unexpected secret to this dish is nutmeg.
Braised Greens with Mushrooms: My first real try working with Swiss Chard, and it was delicious.
Caribbean Shrimp Pasta Salad: Fresh and tropical, this was the perfect pasta salad for my friend’s Jamaica-themed bridal shower.
Coconut Curried Beef with Snow Peas: My husband doesn’t even like curry, and he commented on how good this recipe is.
Crawfish-Smothered Grits: Not healthy at all! But creamy and delicious.
Creamy Taco Mac: My husband loves Hamburger Helper, but I refuse to buy it. This was a good, healthier compromise.
Mussels Marinara: A simple, yet elegant recipe to serve over pasta.
The posts above are all recipes I’ve blogged about on the Whatsupmag.com platform. There are definitely some recipes that I’ve really loved that I haven’t blogged here because they’re either 1) from other sources, or 2) on my personal food blog. These favorite recipes from other chefs or websites include:
Orzo with Caramelized Vegetables: This is somewhat time-consuming, but wholesome and incredibly flavorful.
Roasted Chicken with Balsamic Vinaigrette: I make this with regular boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and it isso good over brown rice.
Shrimp & Scallop Bayou Pasta: This is adapted from an Emeril Lagasse recipe, and pictured above.
Spicy Boneless Ribs in Tomato Sauce: This slow-cooker recipe is so easy to make, but impresses people every time I make it.
What were your favorite recipes of the year?
