by MJF | Jul 3, 2025 | Appetisers, Basil, Hot Appetisers, Italian, Italian, Pasta, Spices & Herbs, World Cuisines
Lemon Basil Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Crushed Hazelnuts Light and tender ricotta gnocchi are tossed in nutty brown butter infused with lemon basil, then topped with toasted hazelnuts and fresh herbs. Elegant and aromatic, this dish highlights basil’s...
by MJF | Jul 3, 2025 | American, Holidays, Iuly 4th Independence Day, Vanilla
By Mark J French | www.chefsnotebooks.com A British chef’s irreverent, delicious take on US Independence Day — with historically inspired recipes from the Revolutionary era and a little poetic flair. And in that spirit……. “Why did the American...
by MJF | Jun 27, 2025 | Basic Preparations, Basil, Cold Sauces, Dips & Dressings, Italian, Mediterranean, Pasta, Sauces, World Cuisines
Classic Basil Pesto A vibrant, flavour-packed pesto made with fresh basil, parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts—this classic Italian sauce comes together in minutes and yields a full pint. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on bread, or freezing in small...
by MJF | Jun 23, 2025 | Main Courses, Mediterranean, Poultry Main Courses, Spices & Herbs, World Cuisines
Clove Smoked Breast of Duck with Date & Orange Jus This dish balances the rich, gamey flavour of duck with the warm intensity of clove and the natural sweetness of dates. A gentle cold-smoking infuses the duck with spice before pan-searing, while a reduced...
by MJF | Jun 21, 2025 | Appetisers, Hot Appetisers, Main Courses, Mediterranean, Parsley, Pasta, Spices & Herbs, Thyme, Vegetarian Main Courses, World Cuisines
Penne Pasta with Tomatoes, Mushrooms, Sherry, and Thyme A beautifully simple yet flavourful dish that celebrates the sweet acidity of tomatoes, the depth of sherry, andthe herbaceous charm of thyme. Balanced with sautéed mushrooms and finishedwith a light touch...
by MJF | Jun 21, 2025 | Appetisers, Chilis, Coriander, Cumin, Hot Appetisers, Mexican, Soups, Spices & Herbs
Mexican Tortilla Soup This deeply flavourful Tortilla Soup, inspired by my time in Houston, Texas, is a warming, boldly spiced blend with peppers, dried chillis, and crisp-fried corn tortillas. Rich with the smoky depth of ancho and guajillo chillis and...
