al·che·my [al-kuh-mee], n. 1. a form of chemistry and speculative philosophy practiced in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and concerned principally with discovering methods for transmuting baser metals into gold and with finding a universal solvent and an elixir of life. 2. any magical power or process of transmuting a common substance, ... view more
How To
How to: Roast Asparagus
I blinked and almost missed it: asparagus season! Asparagus is a spring vegetable, which is something you may only realize if you frequent local farmer's markets - in grocery stores, it is pretty much always in season. In honor of this unique vegetable, let's fire up the oven! Preheat the oven to 400 or 425 - anywhere in there works! To prepare ... view more
How to: Roast Garlic
For the occasion when raw garlic is just a bit too edgy, try roasting it. Roasted garlic takes on a completely different flavor. It is sweet and rich, and great in dips like hummus in place of minced garlic, or spread directly on a steak. If you are having a small dinner party, place a few roasted heads of garlic around a warm baguette fresh out of ... view more
Garlic
... view more
How to: Make Spaghetti Squash
I will start this post by stating outright that I love my pasta, and I am not going to pretend that spaghetti squash is a flawless substitute for noodles. It is, however, healthier. I am no health expert, but I can perform a mean internet search of "spaghetti squash," which leads to all sorts of calorie and nutrition factoids. While there are ... view more
How to: Roast Peppers
While roasted peppers are easily found in stores and are great in a pinch, if you find fresh peppers at a decent price, it is more cost-effective and healthy to prepare them yourself. They will also taste fresher - and there is no substitute for that! Turn on the broiler in your oven and set a rack 4 to 5" below. Cut peppers in half lengthwise; ... view more