Last night at the Restaurant School in Philadelphia, I was among 22 new members inducted into the Philadelphia Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International chapter by president Natayna DiBona and First Vice President Lynn Buono. I was honored and excited, inspired, and well-fed. Around tables of eight, current and new members introduced ourselves before the […]
Italian with a Twist: Christina Pirello’s Baci di Damas (Ladies Kisses)
When I moved in June to Philadelphia, I did have a few things on my must-do-first list, and highlighted on that list was to finally have an espresso with Philly’s own Christina Pirello. We met on a rainy day at the Italian market in Christina’s favorite coffee shop, Anthony’s, and we talked and talked like […]
Dynise Balcavage’s No-Bake Energy Bars
Dynise Balcavage and I met in person at Vida Vegan Con and I was smitten. With her joie de vivre, I knew I just had to spend more time with Madame Balcavage, who shares her Philadelphia home with three former stray cats. Lately, Dynise has been spending some time showing me around her city – and now […]
Vegan Cinnamon Oat Graham Crackers
Typical Graham Crackers are made with graham flour, which is a coarse whole wheat flour. I actually prefer the taste and texture of my veganized graham crackers when made with home toasted whole wheat pastry flour. These cookies have been unanimously praised by the students in my Essential Vegan Desserts course at Rouxbe, who say they are easy […]
