We’ve officially arrived at the thickest point of winter, meaning we are spending most of our quality time inside. And if you’re anything like Taurus me, finding joy within the comfort of my own home is not only my greatest priority, it sets the tone for my ability to function during these long frigid days. My favorite way to enjoy the solace of my living space is by devoting time to my kitchen and continuing my journey to becoming the most hot and capable home chef I can be. I’m happy to report that my most recent scours of the Internet and scrolls through my social feeds have produced a healthy number of recipes that have satisfied my unpredictable cravings and that I proudly vouch as certified must-tries. These five flavor-banging recipes in particular are not only worth the hype, they’re worthy of joining your roster of favorite go-to recipes. Bon appétit!
Crispy Pork Cutlets with Giardiniera Slaw
A good at-home cutlet recipe belongs in every home cook’s arsenal of weekly tricks. In that spirit, look no further than Molly Baz’s most recent cutlet recipe that’s a timeless reminder that it’s always best not to mess with a good thing. Baz builds a case here that when a cutlet is crafted in its purest form, adding additional flavor via a spicy slaw is absolutely the way to go. And as someone who has made this slaw more than once so far this year, I can confirm that it lives in a world entirely of its own and I’m officially the captain of the jarred giardiniera train.
The Sauciest Pasta Alla Vodka in 30 Minutes or Less
Are you under the impression that making your own red sauce isn’t worth it? Well, I’m happy to burst that bubble with this too-good-to-be-true trouble-free recipe by Eric Kim. Kim’s take on Italian favorite pasta alla vodka keeps the familiar dish luscious and glossy, making it even creamier and special with the addition of dolloped ricotta at the end. Not only does this recipe deliver a restaurant-level plate, it illustrates just how effective a simple pasta should be. 30 minutes or less? Literally, say less.
Riz a Jej Lebanese Chicken and Rice
There’s nothing more heartwarming than a plate blessed with a heaping portion of savory grains. Brooklyn legend Edy Massih’s grandmother’s Lebanese chicken and rice recipe is truly the infinite embodiment of comfort food and feels like a crime with how easy it is to whip together. The slow-cooked rice punches with flavor thanks to the addition of beef or lamb, and the toasted nuts to finish make the dish nothing short of unstoppable.
Photography provided by Fishwife
Crispy Rice Salad with Smoked Rainbow Trout and Green Goddess Dressing
Let the record state that green goddess dressing is officially back on the “in” list, meaning there’s a 100% chance that it’s going to find its way back into your life sooner rather than later. Darling tinned fish brand Fishwife has combined the herby condiment with its showstopping Smoked Rainbow Trout and another Internet-trending and stupid-easy delicacy, baked crispy rice. This healthy, no nonsense meal is a perfect addition to any meal-prep rotation and the dressing tastes even better the next day.
Tangy Grilled Hot Wings
I know it’s winter and that using your grill may not be in cards depending on the elements. However, if you’re willing to weather the cold, this grilled wing recipe takes the sticky handheld experience to new levels of delight. Millennial icon Alison Roman enlists Frank’s RedHot (a must-have pantry staple) to do most of the flavor work in this recipe, with the grill itself providing a platform to keep the wings juicy and charred. This recipe is a hit for any game day (if you’re into that), soirees or even just for an afternoon at home. It also makes plenty of leftovers that can be stored or frozen for later use.
