Delaware Girl Eats

Absolutely Wonderful Red Pepper Jam

I have been lusting after jam – not sugary Smuckers but jam that offered rich intense flavors with the fruit’s essence shining through. My grandmother made such jams. She hoarded summer’s bounty in neatly labeled mason jars stacked in orderly rows in her pantry – like soldiers – golden orange marmalade next to spicy apple chutney next to sweet berry jams. When it came time to choose one for our breakfast she softly fingered them, contemplating which flavor suited her mood that day. To me the choice didn’t really matter. Each one was wonderful and I impatiently waited for her... Read more →

Delaware Pole Lima Beans Enrich Posole Stew

For my 23rd wedding anniversary I made my husband Mexican posole stew generously heaped with lima beans. Most people don’t associate limas with occasion dining, but this is a dish we love. It’s too bad that lima beans have a bad rap. Stories about cooking with them invariably start with a line like, “Who says you can’t love lima beans?” which implies they shouldn’t be a favorite food. It’s not fair. I have loved limas ever since I was introduced to them through my mother-in-law’s succotash. Paired with fresh corn right from the garden, a pinch of butter and a... Read more →