First impressions should never be underestimated. They can kick off a party to a terrific start, often with little extra effort for the host. A burst of music, a pint-sized greeter to take your coat, ...

In a heatproof bowl, soak the dried porcini in the boiling water until softened, 20 minutes. Remove the mushrooms. Strain the liquid into a bowl through a sieve lined with a moistened paper towel.

Early in the day or the night before, put the armagnac, prunes, and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan, and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat, cover the pan, and allow the prunes to steep for 6 hours or ...

Chestnuts are making their seasonal appearance right now, over open fires and otherwise. And if these buttery delights aren’t part your regular winter routine, we’re here to help. For starters, when ...

Ed Wicks though it ironic that the Food section featured a story about chestnuts last Wednesday, the day after musician and conductor Skitch Henderson of New Milford died. Wicks, a musician and master ...

Combine porcini mushrooms and 2 cups hot water in medium bowl. Let stand until porcini mushrooms, soften, about 15 minutes.In a saucepan melt butter and add carrots, celery, parsnips and shallots.

Thanksgiving is a very special day at the Danbury home of Ed and Ann Wicks. "Years ago in New England, Pilgrims and Indians joined together giving thanks for peace and harmony," says Ed Wicks. "We ...

If the artichoke skins are pretty clean after a good scrub, don't worry about peeling them, says Hix - Matt Austin Jerusalem artichokes are so versatile, delicious roasted, puréed or raw to be shaved ...

Did you know chestnuts are full of vitamin C? Here are eight chestnut recipes so you can get your fill, all winter long. For some reason, chestnuts don’t get as much attention as, say, peanuts, ...

This silky soup shows off the buttery and sweet flavor of roasted chestnuts and is the perfect cure to a chilly winter day. Instructions: Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Using a paring knife, make an ...