Fresh Coriander Seeds

Coriander is a spice indigenous to the Mediterranean region, but has sprouted throughout the world for a little over 3,000 years.  It dates back far enough to be referenced in the Bible: "Manna was like coriander seed, white" (Exodus 16:31).  The seed spread to Europe via the Romans, and now, we have it in New Orleans.  Coriander leaves are more commonly known as Cilantro or Chinese Parsley.  Anyway you name it, it's good.

Coriander-Basil Sauce

Heat a little olive oil in a small pot, not too hot.  Saute basil stems and coriander seeds for about thirty seconds, add chopped shallots, season with salt and sweat for a minute or so.  Deglaze with white wine, reduce until desired thickness.  Strain into a small sauce pan, add a little butter.  Garnish with a cilantro and basil.  Total cooking time, about five minutes with the resulting sauce...So Fresh and So Clean.






Homemade Bacon @ Home.

 The basic cure for bacon is a mixture of sugar and salt; 1 # Kosher Salt, 1/2# Sugar, 10 teaspoons Pink Salt (TCM).  Pink Salt or TCM (Tinted Cure Mix) is composed of 94% sodium chloride and 6%
sodium nitrate.  Basically it allows the meat to retain a pink hue, as opposed to grey, and eliminates any potential leftover bacteria.  Cure the meat for three to five days, then smoke for three hours.  Bacon has been made. It seems like a long time, but the actual physical labor involved is a mere hour or so.  The mental labor of patience is the only real skill need to make bacon.