The Ricco Kitchen

Bread is surprisingly simple to make and homemade is far superior to most you can find in any grocery store. All you need is a little push to get you over the hurdle that it is far too difficult and you don’t have time. Here is that push! It IS easy. It is four ingredients and the majority of the time the dough is spent rising or in the oven. Fresh bread out of the oven with butter and jelly is good not only for breakfast or a snack, but I’ll admit to eating it for lunch, and I think once for dinner.

Hummus is a traditional middle eastern spread made with chick peas and tahini paste, which is ground sesame seeds. This recipe is from my uncle’s mother and is especially excellent because of spice added by the jalapenos. It is also a nice treat when it is served warm. My uncle Jack insists that you “don’t have enough hummus” on your piece of bread, even if it is caving under the weight of a giant mound.

This is by far one of my favorite soups. The savory roasted garlic coupled with the ham and leaks is incredible. It’s a thick, heart warming comfort food – great for cold weather! Also, if you happen to have leftovers, you can also make a chicken and vegetable stew!

If there is one meal that my family is known for, it’s chicken cutlets. Dad once made over 200 for my brother’s playoff soccer game in high school. We made chicken cutlets for my graduation party. When we make cutlets, it’s an event. They are great right out of the oil or 3 days later right out of the fridge. If you have the time, make a lot at once and you have snacks/lunches/meal options for a whole week. You can freeze them too.