Heather says: In my corner of the south, Hoppin’ John is a traditional New Year’s dish believed to bring good luck. I’m not superstitious, but some traditions, like this one appeal to me. Every year on New Year’s Day we serve Hoppin’ John, collard greens, and cornbread. Hoppin’ John is a nice, flavorful version of … Read more
Heather says: Yesterday when I wrote the post on how to cook with dried beans, I had that nagging feeling, you know the one that says I was forgetting something important. It turns out I was, I edited it into yesterday’s post, but I wanted to be sure everyone saw the update. Unless you are … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, I thought if anyone might have the answer to my questions about dried beans, it would be you – I need a “definitive” guide to dealing with dried beans. So far, my Internet and even cookbook searches always yield really varied results. Should I add salt? Vinegar? Baking soda? None of … Read more
Heather says: The North and South get along just fine when there is bacon involved. I’m hoping to begin adding more recipes that focus on seasonal fruits and vegetables. Here’s to the first of many. Don’t be too heavy handed with the cheese, in this case it is just an accent, just let the smoky … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, I am on hour sixteen, and they still aren’t tender. I gave up the stove top and moved them into a crockpot hours ago.(electricity to run the crockpot is far less expensive than the cost of the gas for the stove) They soaked for 2 days, not kidding. what am I … Read more
Heather says: This side dish is great for those avoiding simple carbohydrates. It would also easily convert to a vegetarian / vegan dish simply by switching to vegetables stock. I pull out this recipe as the temperatures start to drop, I particularly like it next to the slightly sweet vegetables of Autumn (squashes, pumpkins, roasted … Read more
Heather says: My mom grew up in Arizona and has fond memories of a neighbor who made tortillas and refried beans. It has become a quest of mine, I want to know how these things should taste, not like Taco Bell tells me they ought to. Remember the pinto beans from last week? The leftovers … Read more
Dear Home-Ec 101, Everyone acts like dried beans are the end all. How do I get the beans in the bag to work like the beans in the can? I’ve soaked them overnight and they still aren’t like what I get out of a can. Am I legume challenged? Signed, Baffled Bostonian Heather says: … Read more
Heather says: Meatless meals are often great for the wallet. This recipe can be prepared with canned or dried beans. If you use dry black beans, cook 1/2lb dried beans until soft. I put mine in the crockpot the morning I want to make the burritos, cover them with water, and turn the crock on … Read more
Dear Home-Ec 101, To save money, I have started incorporating a lot of dried beans into my diet. Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing lots of, um, gastrointestinal distress. To put it bluntly, my gas is very embarrassing. I don’t want to take beano, are there any other ways to combat this? Thanks, Gina in Gaston Ivy … Read more