Why? Because you can! And pickle, and jam, or otherwise celebrate the resurgence of the domestic arts our forebears held so dear. Put on your best apron and step into our kitchen, won't you?
Homemade chutneys are a terrific way to amp up either a snack or a meal without adding too many extra calories or salt. Making chutney is easier than most jam recipes, and are a nice alternative to a bottle of wine for your host/hostess gift.
Serve it with cheese, like a crumbly aged cheddar or something rich such as Cowgirl Creamery's Mt. Tam or Red Hawk. It's also great on grilled cheese sandwiches or with any dish that requires a brisk, sweet-sour accompaniment.
Michael Dominic had tasted someone else's pickled figs at a party that week, and knew he could do it himself. He promptly scored a five-pound bag of figs, researched some recipes online, added his own flavor -- and won a prize.
This small-batch preserve is ideal for serving on a cheese plate; the texture from the seeds and skin of the figs contrast with the sweetness of honey.
A combination of salty Kalamata olives and sweet dried figs will ensure that your guests will stay around as well, at least until it’s all gobbled up. This recipe is so easy to make and such a hit when entertaining...