Soft, chewy, and golden—these homemade bagels will have you skipping the store forever.

Ingredients

For the Yeast Mixture (Wet Ingredients):

• 2 cups warm water
• 2½ tablespoons instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon organic sugar

For the Dough (Dry Ingredients):

• 5 cups organic all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup melted butter or avocado oil

For the Water Bath:

• 2 cups boiling water
• ¼ cup baking soda

For the Egg Wash & Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir well and let sit for 3 minutes.
2. Make the Dough
   In another bowl, mix flour and salt. Add to the yeast mixture along with melted butter or avocado oil. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix on speed 4–5 for about 3 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Shape the Bagels
   Lightly flour your work surface. Transfer the dough, divide into 10–12 equal pieces, and weigh them for even baking. Stretch and fold each piece a few times, then roll into a ball. Poke a hole in the center with your thumb and shape into bagels.
4. Prepare the Water Bath
   Boil 2 cups of water and pour into a large bowl. Stir in the baking soda (it should look cloudy).
5. Preheat Oven & Add Toppings
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush each bagel with the beaten egg and add your desired toppings.
6. Bake
   Place bagels on the baking sheet and bake for 15–17 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool & Enjoy!
   Let bagels cool slightly before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later

 Pro Tip
Make it a weekend project with the kids or prep a batch for the week ahead. These bagels are freezer-friendly and perfect for breakfast sandwiches or snacking.

Discovering Bò Kho in Vietnam - My Journey Through Flavor While traveling through Vietnam.
Last fall, I found myself on a culinary adventure like no other—zigzagging from bustling cities to quiet coastal towns, tasting each region’s signature dish. Every stop brought new flavors, but there was one dish that stole my heart: Bò Kho, a fragrant Vietnamese beef stew.
 
I still remember the first time I tried it. Sitting at a humble street-side café, the aroma of lemongrass and star anise filled the air as the vendor handed me a steaming bowl of Bò Kho. With a crispy baguette in hand, I tore off a piece and dipped it into the rich, spiced broth. One bite, and I was hooked.

If you’re ready to bring a taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen, I am excited to share my favorite Bò Kho recipe with you. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!


Ingredients:
1 1/2 to 2 lbs beef stew meat or beef brisket, cut into large chunks
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 tablespoon annatto seeds (optional) soaked in oil for color
4 large cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 stalk of lemongrass, cut into 3-inch lengths after removing tough woody parts
3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 large carrot, cut into chunks
1 large daikon radish, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup coconut water or beef stock
2 cups water
2 star anis
1 cinnamon stick
3 kaffir lime leaves
1 tablespoon chili oil
Fresh Thai basil and cilantro for garnish
1 loaf of crusty baguette or cooked rice or egg noodles
Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Add salt and black pepper to beef.  Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté garlic, onion, and lemongrass until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Season and spice: Add fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, tomato paste, chili powder, five-spice powder, paprika, and turmeric. Stir well. 
4. Simmer the stew: Return the beef to the pot and stir well to coat the aromatics over the beef. Add coconut water, water, star anise, cinnamon stick, and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
5. Add vegetables: Add carrot and daikon radish chunks. Continue simmering until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt as needed. Add chili oil; remove the star anise, cinnamon stick, lemongrass, and lime leaves before serving.
7. Cook your noodles per package instructions, transfer to bowls, and ladle the soup over the top.
8. Serve: Garnish with chili oil, Thai basil and cilantro. Serve with a crusty baguette for dipping. 

In September 2024, I visited Seoul, South Korea, for an incredible adventure filled to the brim with energy, culture, and lively markets, not to mention oodles of great food. Of all the great experiences from that trip, one thing that really stood out was something called Yachaejeon, or Korean pancake—a savory vegetable pancake so full of flavor.
As I wandered through Seoul's lively marketplaces, the smell of street vendors was a temptation I could not resist. There they were, flipping golden-brown pancakes on sizzling griddles, filling the air with a homey, savory smell. Their pancakes were simple yet replete with flavor—thick, juicy pancakes filled with fresh green onions and carrots—a real testament to the beauty of Korean cuisine.
To elevate the experience, I paired my pancake with crispy Korean fried chicken. The contrast of textures—crunchy chicken and soft, savory pancake—was nothing short of heavenly. Each bite was a harmony of flavors that was made even better with a tangy, umami-packed dipping sauce that brought everything into perfect balance.
From that experience, I created this recipe, Korean Vegetable Pancake with Traditional Dipping Sauce, for sharing in my cooking class as a tribute to all those wonderful moments I had exploring Seoul and to bring a little piece of Korea into your kitchen.
Whether you have this pancake as a snack, side dish, or main course, I hope it takes you to the heart of Seoul and back, like it did me. And make sure to have it with Korean fried chicken—it's a combination you'll thank me for later!
Korean Vegetable Pancakes (Yachaejeon)Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
    1 cup all-purpose flour
    1/4 cup potato starch (optional for extra crispiness)
    1 cup cold water
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
    4  green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces - long
    ⅓ cup leek, sliced thinly  
    1/2 cup shredded carrots
   1/2 cup zucchini, julienned
    1/4 cup onion, thinly slice
     2 tablespoons avocado oil (per pancake)
For the Dipping Sauce:
     2 tablespoons soy sauce
​     1 tablespoon rice vinegar
     1 teaspoon sesame oil
    1 teaspoon sesame seeds
    1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 
    1 green onion, finely chopped (optional)
    1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
Prepare the Pancake Batter

1. ​In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, potato starch (if using), cold water, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. 
   
2. Add the vegetables (green onions, carrots, zucchini, leeks, and onion) to the batter. Mix well to coat evenly
   

Cook the Pancakes:

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
2. Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly into a thin layer.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.
   

Make the Dipping Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), green onion, and garlic. Stir well.

Serve:

1. Cut the pancakes into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
   

Enjoy your crispy, savory Korean vegetable pancakes with the perfectly balanced dipping sauce!

One of my fondest childhood memories of Christmas is the aroma of spices, rum, and molasses wafting through the house as my family baked Jamaican Black Cake. This rich and decadent dessert, also known as Christmas Pudding, is a staple in Jamaican households during the holiday season. Its deep flavors, soaked fruits, and moist texture make it unforgettable. But this cake is more than just a treat—it's a piece of Jamaican history. Black Cake, derived from British plum pudding, was adapted by enslaved Africans on the island who infused it with their creativity and the bold flavors of rum and tropical fruits. Over time, it evolved into the iconic holiday dessert we know today. Its preparation is a labor of love, often starting months in advance with the soaking of fruits—a tradition symbolizing patience and the spirit of celebration. This recipe is my homage to those childhood memories and the legacy of Jamaican culinary tradition. Let’s dive in and create your very own slice of history.

Ingredients
For the Fruit Mixture:

• ½ cup prunes, pitted
• 2 cups raisins
• ¼ cup dates, pitted
• ¼ cup apricots
• ½ cup cherries
• 1 tablespoon orange rinds
• 1 cup Jamaican white rum or dark spiced rum 
• 1 cup port wine

For the Cake Batter:

• 6 oz all-purpose flour
• 6 oz bread crumbs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ lb salted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 6 eggs
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 2 tsp lime juice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 tbsp dark molasses or browning (caramelized sugar syrup)

For Soaking the Cake:

• ¼ cup rum
• ¼ cup port wine

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:

• Combine prunes, raisins, dates, apricots, orange peel, and cherries in a glass jar.
• Pour in the rum and port wine to completely cover the fruit.
• Seal the jar with a tight-fitting metal lid and let the mixture soak for at least 30 days, or up to a year. Check occasionally and top up with more rum and wine to keep the fruits submerged.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper or use nonstick cake pans.
• Blend the soaked fruit mixture in a blender or food processor until coarsely chopped.
• Whisk together the flour, bread crumbs, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt in a medium bowl.
• Cream the butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Stir in the lime zest, vanilla extract, almond extract, lime juice, and molasses (or browning).
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, and beat well to incorporate fully.
• Fold in the fruit mixture, distributing it evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

3. Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Cover with parchment paper and foil.
• Place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam.
• Bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Soak the Cake:

• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• Poke several holes in the tops with a skewer and spoon the rum and wine mixture over the cakes.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additional rum and wine can be added every few days.

​Serving and Tips

Serving:
Jamaican Black Cake is best enjoyed after it has aged and absorbed the soaking liquids, making it moist and flavorful. Traditionally served at Christmas and weddings, it pairs beautifully with a warm drink or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips:

• Texture: The batter should be thick enough for a spoon to stand upright in it.
• Soaking Time: For the richest flavor, soak the fruits for several months.
• Storage: Keep the cake in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended freshness.
• Gluten-Free AdaptationFor a gluten-free Jamaican Black Cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free bread crumbs. These substitutions will maintain the cake's rich texture and flavor, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences. Just ensure your other ingredients, like molasses or browning, are also labeled gluten-free for a completely safe treat!
  
  ​A Taste of Jamaica
  

Every bite of Jamaican Black Cake carries the essence of Christmas and the legacy of Jamaica's rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re continuing a cherished family tradition or trying it for the first time, this cake will surely become a festive favorite in your home. Enjoy!

A Creamy, Flavorful Indian ClassicButter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. This rich and creamy dish features tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with butter, cream, and the warmth of traditional Indian flavors. Perfect for pairing with fluffy naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice, it’s a comforting dish that satisfies every craving.

Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 to 2  lb boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste (1 tsps)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 3 large tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 15 cashews
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Salt to taste (2 tsp)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Water (as needed)

Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice.
• Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat 1 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same pan on medium heat, add 2 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp oil,  sauté the chopped onions until golden brown.
• Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
• Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
• Mix in turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder, and cook for 5 minutes. 
• Add 4 tablespoons of water, then the cashews, and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

4. Blend the Sauce:

• Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of water and blend until smooth and creamy.

5. Combine and Cook:

• Add 1 tbsp butter and reheat over medium heat. Return the sauce to the pan.
• Stir in the blended sauce, adding ¼ cup of water to adjust consistency. Cook for 2 minutes.
• Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Reduce the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
• Sprinkle kasuri methi over the top and stir. Simmer for an additional 3 -5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken:

• Marination is key: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Balance the spice: Adjust chili powder to your preference for a milder or spicier dish.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending the sauce ensures a smooth and luxurious texture.
• Kasuri methi magic: Dried fenugreek leaves add an authentic, aromatic depth to the dish.

Enjoy your homemade butter chicken—a dish that will bring the flavors of India right to your table!

Say Goodbye to Store-Bought Bread: Homemade Sandwich Bread There’s something truly special about making your own bread at home. The aroma filling your kitchen, the simplicity of wholesome ingredients, and the joy of slicing into a loaf you made yourself—it’s a game changer. This sandwich bread recipe has become one of my family’s favorites, and once you try it, you might never want to buy bread from the store again! It's a labor of love that's well worth it.
Soft, fluffy, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to toast, this is my go-to recipe for a versatile and delicious homemade bread.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bake some fresh bread!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose organic flour
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1½ teaspoons sugar
• 1½ teaspoons instant yeast
• 1½ cups lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Mix the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt first. Add the sugar and instant yeast, then pour in the lukewarm water. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a rubber spatula, mix until everything is well combined and forms a sticky dough.
2. First Rise
   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for at least 2 hours. It should double in size.
3. Prepare the Pan
   While the dough is rising, butter your loaf pan to prevent sticking.
4. Shape the Dough
   Once the dough has risen, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over it. Using your hands, gently fold the dough over itself 3 to 4 times to shape it into a rough loaf. Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan and cover it with the kitchen towel again. Let it rise for another hour, or until it reaches the rim of the pan.
5. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
6. Cool & Slice
   Remove the bread from the oven and carefully turn it out onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing—it’s worth the wait for those perfectly neat slices!

Pro Tips for Perfect Bread:

• Make sure your water is lukewarm, not hot (around 100–110°F) —this helps activate the yeast without killing it.
• For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with a bit of melted butter while it’s still warm.
• Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for longer.
• For an extra twist, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or oats on top of the dough before baking.

This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathering with butter while it’s still slightly warm. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see just how easy and rewarding baking your own bread can be.
For another bread recipe like this, visit Cooking with Dianne Morin. Let's bake something amazing together!

One of My Favorite Jamaican Childhood Memories: Banana Bread There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house. Growing up in Jamaica, this simple yet flavorful treat was a staple in my family’s kitchen. Every time I bake it, I’m transported back to those carefree childhood days, watching my mother effortlessly whip up this beloved recipe. It also takes me back to the days when I lovingly baked this for my own children during their childhood. Now, I’m excited to share it with you! This banana bread is moist, rich, and perfectly spiced with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon—classic Jamaican flavors. Add your favorite mix-ins like raisins, toasted walnuts, or dark chocolate for an extra special twist.

Ingredients

• 3 very ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter!)
• 1 stick of butter (½ cup), melted
• ½ cup organic sugar or honey
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1½ cups all-purpose organic flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Pinch of ground allspice
• Pinch of cinnamon powder
• Pinch of nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts (optional)
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan and set aside.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and melted butter. Add the bananas and mash them with a fork until you have a lumpy, chunky texture. Stir in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana mixture, whisking until just combined.
4. Fold in the Goodies
   Gently fold in the raisins, chocolate chunks, and walnuts (if using) for an added burst of flavor and texture.
5. Bake
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve
   Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for 10–15 minutes. Gently loosen the edges with a knife and transfer the banana bread to the rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tip:

• For a true Jamaican twist, enjoy your banana bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey—it’s pure comfort in every bite.
• Want a richer flavor? Swap out the organic sugar for brown sugar to add a hint of caramel sweetness.
• While you can skip the sour cream, it plays a key role in keeping the bread moist and tender. If you do omit it, consider adding a splash of milk or yogurt as a substitute.

I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen as much as it has been in mine. Let the flavors take you on a journey to Jamaica, one bite at a time!

Experience the bold, spicy flavors of Jamaica with this jerk chicken recipe, complete with a homemade wet jerk seasoning rub. This marinade combines the earthy heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers with fragrant herbs and spices, giving your chicken a taste that’s rich, smoky, and packed with island flavor.

Jerk Seasoning Rub
Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of thyme (about 1 oz.)
• 1 bunch of scallions (7 stalks)
• 1-2 Scotch Bonnet or habanero peppers
• 1/4 cup oil
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp pimento seeds
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 2-3 tsp salt
• Juice of 1 large lime
• 2-3 tsp browning or soy sauce

Directions for Wet Jerk Seasoning Rub:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until a thick paste forms.
2. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
3. Use 3-4 tbsp of this jerk seasoning to marinate 3-4 lbs of meat or vegetables. For best results, marinate chicken for at least 4 hours (or overnight) and marinate veggies or tofu for 30 minutes.

Jerk Chicken
​Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs. chicken, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup homemade jerk seasoning rub (from above)

Directions:

1. Marinate
   Coat the chicken thoroughly with 1/4 cup of the jerk seasoning rub. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Grill
   Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken, turning every 15 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for dark meat and 180°F for white meat. To achieve a deep brown color, sear the chicken on the hottest part of the grill for a few minutes toward the end.
3. Oven Option
   If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the chicken until cooked through, then broil for the last 3-5 minutes to develop a rich, brown color.

Serve this delicious jerk chicken with Jamaican rice and peas or your favorite sides for an authentic Caribbean meal that’s full of flavor and spice. Enjoy!