I mentioned last week that my partner and I combine forces to make an at-home steakhouse menu every Valentine’s Day. Welcome to the sides portion of this year’s feast. These Loaded Baked Potato Croquettes are a riff on the classic jacket potato. These jumbo croquettes house a filling of baked potato flesh and a rich mornay sauce packed with cheddar cheese, scallions, garlic, shallots, and sour cream. This is everything you love and expect from a loaded baked potato in a golden, crisp format.
Sweet Potato Tempura Onigirazu
I, like most of the world, have a nearly insatiable taste for sushi. I didn’t have my first piece of maki until I 16 but I have more than made up for lost time in the 16 years since. As with most of my favorite foods, I have tried my hand at sushi in the past. My attempts have been serviceable but nowhere near restaurant quality. It’s the rice, I can’t get it right. And, of course, my lack of dexterity holds me back as well. My maki rolls lack structural integrity, so much so that I often find myself eating the evidence of a poorly executed roll, leaving me prematurely full and my serving platter woefully empty. This is why I love these Sweet Potato Tempura Onigirazu. They don’t require a deft hand or perfectly seasoned sushi rice and they crush my sushi cravings, without destroying my confidence.
Leftover Turkey Samosas with Cranberry Chutney
I don’t know about you, but after a few evenings of holiday dinner leftovers, I want anything but. Unfortunately, holiday leftovers rarely run out before my interest does. And that’s why I’m always thinking up new and interesting ways to completely transform the remains of the day. I want whatever I make with my leftovers to bear almost no resemblance to its former self. Case in point – these Leftover Turkey Samosas with Cranberry Chutney.
Spicy Chicken Squash Blossom Tacos
Have you ever experienced a squash blossom that has been stuffed and fried? They are truly magical. So magical, in fact, it’s hard to stray from the classic. But I somehow found the courage to take a risk and try something new with my beloved blossoms. These Spicy Chicken Squash Blossom Tacos are the result of that leap of faith. And now, they are this household’s favorite taco, which is a touch inconvenient because squash blossoms are not always easy to come by. So I realize this recipe may be a tease for some of you at the moment. On the other hand, it never hurts to have a recipe at the ready for any unexpected blossoms that may enter your life.