Suzi's Blog

Too Much Mint and Not Enough Summer

by Suzi on July 28th, 2008 in Cookbook Reviews, Recipes 5 Comments

I would like to offer you some very luscious beverage ideas from three wonderful books.  But first, …

Mint.  I grew up in a Brooklyn suburb.  Concrete in front and grass in the back with standard flowers and shrubs.  No herbs.  No mint.

During the week I am still a city girl.  From my Manhattan loft, my windows give me a view of a vanishing species.  I look out on a parking lot.  Each year, there is a threat that the lot, and my view, will be lost to a new mega-boutique hotel.  In the meantime, with my windows open, I can hear the rush of traffic down West Broadway.  Even with the windows closed, I can feel the rumble of the 1, 2 and 3 trains just a half block away.

On weekends, my husband and I live in the Catskill Mountains.  With my windows open, I can hear the rush of wind through the trees.  Even with the windows closed, I can detect the murmur of the stream that runs just outside our home.  Although I’m technically still a city girl, when it comes to sound, the stream beats the subway.

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The Essential Chocolate Chip Cookbook by Elinor Klivans

by Suzi on July 9th, 2008 in Cookbook Reviews 1 Comment

Well, it’s summer time and that’s just the time for fun treats. July and August are peak picnic months. We all need finger foods for the park or beach. Elinor Klivans is a master of the sweet stuff that every picnic basket just has to have.Her latest book, The Essential Chocolate Chip Cookbook, has wonderful recipes to try this summer. I have included three recipes that my husband (the ultimate cookie monster) tested and loved. We served the Kitchen Sink Cookies to my family last weekend and everyone went crazy. One small note, Brian and I really liked Elinor’s recommendation to use Ghirardelli chocolate chips for these cookies. They are rich, dark, not overly sweet, and bake quite well.

This slim book packs a punch. You’ll discover loads of terrific information, from basic baking techniques to the type of chips to use. Elinor is a meticulous baker and these recipes are detailed without going over the top. They are a perfect guide to perfect cookies and other chocolate chip desserts. Her easy, scrumptious recipes are certain to become family favorites. You just might still be eating these in September!