Product review

I was extremely skeptical of this garlic- and shallot-"saving" bag when I bought it, but I have to say that it really works. It's made of linen, and I bought it at Crate & Barrel. None of my garlic or shallots has gone bad as the bag seems to slow the aging/ripening process. There is also a potato version which is, obviously, larger. Just an FYI in case you're tired of the green shoots that emerge from your garlic and the withering that strikes that and the shallots.

Prodigal market, prodigal haul

Boy, did we take full advantage of the farmers market this morning. Everything was beautiful and plentiful, and we just kept going, feeling inspired and excited. Here's the bulk of our produce purchases minus the cheese the boys fell in love with and pleaded for. It's hanging out in the fridge until lunchtime. And who can get over these dahlias? They were all stunning; the Bachelor Buttons remind me of Nanny as she always had them growing in her yard. With the plums and peaches,  I'm going to make more jam. The potatoes would be lovely roasted with that gorgeous sage and that fresh ginger plus some sesame oil, soy and the like might make a delightful salad with the watermelon radishes- we were happy to see those back in season. Off to plan.

As promised...

Oh.My.Gosh. These gougères are to die for. T is a complete convert. Here are some step-by-step pics. I don't usually dress so nicely to cook but we were just back from Contagion, and I was thirsting for these yummies. They completely hit the spot, were not hard and will definitely be made again. I love the Gruyère/Asiago/Thyme blend, and as in Louisiana cheese straws & balls, the hint of cayenne as you swallow is great. We also enjoyed some pea tendrils quick-seared in sesame oil and szechuan pepper (isn't that color green just fantastic?!), some garbanzo beans and Spanish goat cheese in Romesco, and the remaining bit of potato leek gratin. All were fab, we opened an OR Pinot to go with it all -King Estate '07- and still have time to read and head to bed. So nice.

Contagion was good, very enjoyable, but not a-maz-ing. Lots to think about though, and I'd be lying if I said we didn't talk about should we or should we not pack an emergency kit to stash away.

Tomorrow to the farmers market- I'm hoping there are still some more peaches, and we'll see what other goodies strike our fancy. And at the very least, I plan to can some Raisin-Haters Apple Chutney tomorrow. I do love raisins but whatever...

If the lovely woman I met today in the canning aisle is reading this, I hope your canning session(s) is successful and fun. I enjoyed meeting you.