The Hungry Mouse

So here's the thing. I liked this cake so much that I immediately had to get it out of the house so I didn't gobble down the entire pan. Find the logic in that, I know.

Now, I like garlic in pretty much all its forms, but roasted garlic has to be one of the best substances on the planet. And making it is one of those ineffable acts of culinary magic.

Based on Ina Garten's fabulous recipe, these meat loaves pack huge comfort-food goodness in a small package. They're a great thing to serve at a dinner party. I mean, come on: Who wouldn't love a little meatloaf, made just for them?

I should admit: I have a special spot in my heart for old-fashioned desserts—especially if it's the kind of thing that you're likely to find in the spinning dessert case at a 1950s-style diner. This pie totally fits the bill.

This is a really simple recipe. It's a great, easy weeknight alternative to french fries. I tossed the potato wedges with some fresh, minced herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then baked 'em in the oven.

When it comes to classic French cooking, there are five basic sauces—the so-called "mother" sauces—that provide the foundation for most sauces we know today.

Here's your proof, folks. I do eat my veggies. Granted, I prefer my veggies covered in cheese. (OK, I'll admit it: I'd probably eat a newspaper if you put enough cheese on it.)

Hope you all had a fabulous holiday and new years! The Angry Chef and I spent New Year's Eve nestled in with the good folks from The Salem Insider and Rippin Kitten. The company was outstanding. There was a roaring fire in the hearth. We had a handful of toasty cocktails. Honestly, I couldn't think of a better way to ring...

So, say I was *actually* mouse-sized. (I'm not saying that I'm NOT, just imagine if I were.) This would be the best hot tub ever.

If you live anywhere in New England and you don't know about the Hawthorne Hotel, you should. And if you're ever in Salem, Massachusetts, you have no excuse not to stop in. Tell them The Hungry Mouse sent you to have a nibble. You won't be sorry. So The Hawthorne is one of those grand old hotels, in mini form,...