When we moved to California, I promised myself we would spend as much time outside as possible. We would hike, camp, walk, run, and bike (if I ever re-learn, it's definitely NOT like riding a bike, you CAN forget) our way across Northern California. Apparently I forgot I was in residency -- it's a slow … Continue reading Exploring California 4: Coyote Hills Regional Park + Coconut Curry Soup-Salad
Dinner
One of the best things I’ve made: Celebration Puff
This is definitely one of the best things I've ever made. It's flaky, slightly sweet and perfectly savory. I'm at the VA right now, and I've had a little bit of time to let my mind wander on my off-call days and as it frequently does, my mind goes to food. What spices? What flavors? … Continue reading One of the best things I’ve made: Celebration Puff
Exploring California Part 3: Roaring Camp + Madras Cafe
The smells of South Indian food make me smile. It's not naan, it's not palak paneer, it's something different. It's rice, it's lentils, it's sambar and rasaam, and memories. It's memories of my mom making Uttapam at home with coconut chutney. It's cilantro everywhere. I've been disappointed by South Indian food restaurants generally -- thick … Continue reading Exploring California Part 3: Roaring Camp + Madras Cafe
Miso Baked Tofu with Shiitake and Bell Pepper Saute
As a vegetarian, tofu is one of my go-to easy canvases to start a dish with. It's protein-packed, easy, and you can put a lot of different flavors on the tofu to color it. A lot of people say they don't really like tofu, or hate how it tastes; if you think of it as … Continue reading Miso Baked Tofu with Shiitake and Bell Pepper Saute
Spinach and Edamame Patties in under 45 minutes
I was sitting at home the other day and feeling particularly lazy about dinner. Not to mention I didn't have any fresh vegetables in the fridge that I could make a meal with. So, I turned towards my freezer. I had spinach and edamame. So I pulled them out and made these patties with spinach, edamame, … Continue reading Spinach and Edamame Patties in under 45 minutes
Slow Cooker Spinach, Carrot, and Mushroom Lasagna
Hello world!! My name is Mary. I first met Mita in an elevator during her first year of medical school. She kindly said to me, “Hey, you’re a PhD student in Anatomy, right?” ... “Want to study together?” Long story short, we spent about 15 minutes studying and 4 hours talking about life. We’ve been … Continue reading Slow Cooker Spinach, Carrot, and Mushroom Lasagna
Under 45 minutes: Shakshuka-inspired Brunch
Brunch is fun...it's even funner if you can make it under 45 minutes. Seriously -- when you have people over, it's key to make sure you're not in the kitchen the whole time. It's part of why I love this recipe, and my easy vanilla-almond baked french toast: fast, delicious, and you won't have to … Continue reading Under 45 minutes: Shakshuka-inspired Brunch
Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad
Spring is upon us! Finally -- colorful foods, sunshine, jogging outside, not wearing seven layers indoor and pounding tea like it's your job! Spring. It's a happy time. Especially for food. You finally can put away those hot soups, stews, chilis, pasta bakes, and switch to delicate salads, with myriad colors and sharp flavors. After … Continue reading Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad
Sun-dried tomato and Basil Baked Ricotta
Date nights are important. I talk to Tyler regularly, but it's not the same as sitting down on a designated day, with some food that's a little different than usual, maybe drinks that are a little different, maybe music that's a little different, and letting conversation wander. Nine years in, and I cannot express the value … Continue reading Sun-dried tomato and Basil Baked Ricotta
Avocado-Cilantro Crema
My family loves Mexican-inspired food. Growing up we had it at least once a week. Tacos were a long time favorite in my house -- my mom would do some variation of tortillas, beans, cheese, and veggies. When I tell people this most are like, oh cool, and some are just aghast, asking how I could … Continue reading Avocado-Cilantro Crema
The Clumsy Cook 