About This Blog – A Dash of Information
Welcome to the nerve center of The Amiable Gourmand. This is where questions are answered, curiosity is encouraged, and the story behind the food and drink takes center stage. This page serves as your guide to what we do here and why we do it. Also, you can join in on the fun by sipping, stirring, and sautéing right along with us.
Here you’ll find everything from our philosophy on cooking (joyful, generous, occasionally messy) to our approach to cocktails. Learn about the tools we trust, the sources we love, and the pantry staples we can’t live without. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef, a cocktail enthusiast, or someone who just really likes to read about food, you’re in the right place.
We’ll also share how recipes are developed and tested, how historical tidbits are researched, and how to get in touch if you’ve got a question, a suggestion, or a vintage bar cart you think we should see.
In short, this page is where the behind-the-scenes becomes center stage—a little FAQ, a little manifesto, and a whole lot of personality. So take a look around. After all, half the fun of good food and drink is knowing the story behind the glass or the plate.
Refogado: The Heartbeat of Portuguese and Brazilian Cooking Refogado (pronounced heh-foh-GAH-do in Portuguese) is the savory base that gives life to countless dishes in Portuguese and Brazilian kitchens. Typically made by gently sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil or vegetable oil, refogado often includes Read More
German Suppengrun: Germany’s Green Foundation German Suppengrun (pronounced ZOO-pen-groon, meaning “soup greens” in German) is the classic German flavor base. Often, it is used much like mirepoix in French cuisine. It typically consists of carrots, leeks, and celeriac (celery root). It may also contain parsley, Read More
The Cajun Holy Trinity: Flavor at the Heart of the Bayou In the world of Cajun and Creole cooking, the Holy Trinity isn’t a religious reference (though it is treated with reverence). It’s the aromatic base of nearly every classic Louisiana dish: onions, bell peppers, Read More
Soffritto (pronounced soh-FREE-toh) is the heart and soul of Italian cooking. It is a gently sautéed mixture of aromatic vegetables, typically onions, carrots, and celery. It is finely chopped and cooked slowly in olive oil or butter until soft, sweet, and golden. It’s the base Read More
Avanzare Italian Restaurant in Lombard, IL, offers a delightful blend of traditional Italian cuisine and warm hospitality, making it a standout dining destination in the western suburbs. 🍝 Cuisine & Menu Highlights Avanzare’s menu showcases classic Italian dishes crafted with care. Patrons often praise the Read More
Bourbon has a rich history deeply intertwined with American culture, particularly in Kentucky, where it originated. While whiskey production dates back centuries, bourbon is uniquely American, with its roots tracing back to the late 18th century.
DVO Cook’n Recipe Organizer is a powerful and user-friendly software designed to help home cooks and professional chefs organize, plan, and enhance their cooking experience. If you’re managing a vast collection of family recipes, this is the app. Meal prepping for the week, or looking Read More
