September Days

This year fall seems to be right on schedule. Labor Day was over and suddenly our temps were in the 60's. I can't say that I mind. We rely on a window unit in the kitchen to try and keep our house cool, so I am glad to be able to sleep at night with out having our network of fans set up. I love being able to eat breakfast without sweat dripping off my lips, and most of all I am excited to be able to cook again!

This week has been a fun one in the world of cooking! I caught an episode of "Splendid Table" while driving in Iowa last weekend, and Lynne Rossetto Kasper has me all inspired! I made this recipe earlier this week. You can read the website and learn all about orange flower water.

Who knew that it was a by-product of perfume making, and it adds amazing flavor to cakes and baking? I found some at one of our local Mediterranean grocers, and I have been playing with it all week!

I also made this yummy pasta dish that she talked about on her last program. (You have to listen to the podcast for the recipe, you can fast-forward to minute 43:00) My neighbor had just given me a big box full of grape tomatoes, and I think it is one of the best ways I have ever eaten them.

And I am trying my hand at artisan bread. I bought this book earlier this summer and I have been waiting for the weather to cool off so I can give it a try. The downside is, it takes a few days to make a loaf of bread - I hope the flavor is amazing as the book says it is - but it is a whole new approach to baking, and I am excited to see the results. I will have to keep you posted!