The Culinary Life

A professional foodie at large

You might be surprised about the title of this post. “Hippy crack” isn’t exactly what one thinks of when wanting something warm and cozy to eat, especially since, where I come from, the term is reserved for the curious little nitrous canisters that recently took down Demi Moore. Back in my younger days, Whip-its were all the rage for anyone looking for a quick buzz – and even as an adult, I occasionally see someone hiding in the back corner of a party, passed out on the floor and drooling on themselves, surrounded by little silver bullets of laughing-gas love.

But this blog isn’t about inebriants, and least not of the illegal sort. Let’s get to the tasty part, the part about the raspberry flax and almond flour muffins. [[Read more about Raspberry Flax and Almond Flour Muffins]]

For me 2012 is going to be a year of growth, and a big part of the growth I hope to cultivate is better communication with others who love the same things I do. Namely, good food. That’s where you come in.

Lately I’ve been wondering how to communicate with my readers beyond this blog. While I’m really enjoying interacting with you all on Pinterest and Twitter, I want to share more than just pretty pictures and 140-character snippets. I want to share information, details, useful resources. You know, the meat and potatoes of life in the kitchen. And, the occasional narrative essay.

So, I’m excited to announce something I’ve been working on the past few weeks – [[Read more about The Culinary Life Newsletter]]

Thumbnail image for Stress, Pain, and Cassoulet

Stress, Pain, and Cassoulet

by Stephanie Stiavetti January 11, 2012 European

If you’re looking for a hearty casserole that will keep you full for days, look no further than this cassoulet. Hearty and warming, this dish is like the culinary equivalent of a snuggie, fresh from the dryer.

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Are You On Pinterest?

by Stephanie Stiavetti January 9, 2012 Random

I’ve been cataloging food stuff on Pinterest, a great new site for sharing information in a visual way. Are you on there, too?

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Thumbnail image for A New Chapter – New Years Resolutions for 2012

A New Chapter – New Years Resolutions for 2012

by Stephanie Stiavetti January 6, 2012 Random

I’m not one for resolutions, but I’m all for goals. Take a peek at what I hope to accomplish this year, and share with me what your goals are for the new year.

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Thumbnail image for Gluten-Free Vegetarian New Years Eve

Gluten-Free Vegetarian New Years Eve

by Stephanie Stiavetti December 30, 2011 Cookbooks

This recipe makes a large batch of salad, perfect for buffet tables or large dinner parties.You can use the same amount of brown rice or quinoa, if you prefer. You can add shrimp if you like, or leave it out.

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Thumbnail image for The Winter of My Discontent

The Winter of My Discontent

by Stephanie Stiavetti December 26, 2011 Breakfast

This smooth, creamy winter dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or when you’re looking for a sweet dessert with no added sugar. Apples and butternut squash are roasted until they caramelize, then pureed with a little salt, cinnamon, and olive oil.

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Thumbnail image for Artisan Pizza and Flatbread in Five Minutes a Day

Artisan Pizza and Flatbread in Five Minutes a Day

by Stephanie Stiavetti December 21, 2011 Cookbooks

Jeff Hertzberg and Zoë François have released their third book, Artisan Pizza and Flatbread in Five Minutes a Day. If you love pizza, this book is a must.

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Thumbnail image for Emily Dickinson’s Black Cake Recipe

Emily Dickinson’s Black Cake Recipe

by Stephanie Stiavetti December 15, 2011 American

The recipe is as close as I can possibly get to Emily Dickinson’s black cake. I make only one concession to modern taste and availability of ingredients.

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