An Engineer's Perspective – If an Engineer can't fix it, we're in trouble

Grilled, Broiled, or Sauteed Asparagus

Whether you grill, saute, or broil your asparagus, this hack will help get a plated product that not only looks good, but taste like asparagus should. Hack #1; To trim your asparagus, hold it near the base in one hand and bend the stalk, where …

Avocado Hummus

This is a nice Southwest spin on a Mediterranean classic. It is smooth on the pallet while still being spicy and can be served as a dip, a spread, or as a side. Because of the avocado though, the shelf life is maybe one or …

Smoked Pork Butt

There are many variables involved in smoking meat; there’s the tenderness and moisture desired, the kind of smoker being used (gas, charcoal, wood, or electric), the ambient temperature, the rub or marinade used, etc. So anything mentioned here is just a suggestion and even I …

Dad’s Cucumber Salad

Growing up with a chef meant the kitchen was divided, not by space or even appliances, although my Dad did has his knives no one could touch, but by cuisines of responsibility. One thing my Dad always made when a meal required it, was the …

Pedernales Chili

It is alleged among Texas lore, that Pedernales Chili was President Lyndon Johnson’s favorite style of Texas chili. I don’t know about that, but its a pretty darn good chili style, if you like a little spice in your life that is. It’s fun to …

Razel Hanut

This cardamon based spice is used in Oriental Butter, but can also be used on vegetables or as a rub. It has a dominate character of cardamon and cloves and is so full of spices you can lost in their harmony. Take out the salt …

Mirepoix

Mirepoix is a French recipe base made from diced vegetables that are cooked slowly in a fat (I use olive oil) to sweeten and deepen the flavors of your cuisine. The mix is cooked over very low heat, as the intention is to intensify the …

Spinach Artichoke Spread

This is a spread that is baked first either in a bowl or a bread dough (or tortilla). To be quick, suggest using a can of artichoke hearts and frozen cut spinach – just make sure it’s fully thawed, which can take hours. Also, make …

Spinach Artichoke Flatbread

This is another quick and easy appetizer you can mostly make in advance so that on party night you can focus on your cuisine. In this recipe I use store bought crescent rolls, but if you want to do it right, you a homemade bread, …

Baked Biscuit Wreath with Spinach Dip Center

A quick and easy way to make a try of bite sized appetizers. I present this recipe using the easy use of canned biscuits from the store. If I have time, I prefer to make my own biscuits or use my quick braided French bread …