A Tribute to Gumbo: History, Heritage, and a Family Favorite

When my wife and I took a weekend trip to New Orleans, we thought we were signing up for just another cooking class in the French Quarter. Instead, what we found was a dish that has since become a staple in our home—and a deeper appreciation for the history simmering in every pot of Gumbo.

That class changed how I thought about cooking. The instructor didn’t just hand us a recipe; they taught us that good gumbo is a layering of flavors. Each ingredient is built slowly, allowed to cook down until it adds depth and richness. It’s not a meal you rush. The most important—and sometimes most intimidating—step? Cooking the roux. You stir and stir until the flour and fat transform into the color of peanut butter. Any darker and you risk burning it; any lighter and you miss out on gumbo’s signature flavor base.

Ever since, I’ve been making gumbo once a month for my family. Sometimes it’s a classic chicken-and-sausage gumbo, and other times I use the Thanksgiving turkey carcass to create an “after-holiday” gumbo that feels like a second feast. No matter the variation, it always carries a taste of New Orleans with it.

Hearty Chicken & Dumplings: A Comfort Dish That Brings Back Homegrown Memories

When I was a kid growing up in Jamestown, North Dakota in the early 1980s, my best friend Danny lived right across the street. We’d spend our days running wild—sledding in the winter, riding bikes in the summer, and always working up an appetite. Every so often, when the sun dipped low and the chill of the prairie set in, Danny’s mom would call us inside for dinner. On those special nights, I secretly hoped she was making Chicken & Dumplings.

It was peppery, warm, and unlike anything I had ever tasted at home. The dish had a depth of flavor that made me pause and savor every bite. Looking back, I believe Danny’s mom was drawing from her German immigrant roots, much like so many families in North Dakota. It wasn’t just a meal—it was a hug in a bowl, the kind of food that sticks with you for life.

Fast forward a few decades, and I recently recreated a version of Chicken & Dumplings in my own kitchen. One spoonful brought me straight back to those evenings in Jamestown, sitting at my best friend’s table, feeling lucky to be there.

The Only Crepe Recipe You’ll Ever Need (Savory or Sweet!)

Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing brunch guests, or just treating yourself on a Sunday morning, crepes are the ultimate culinary blank canvas. These thin, French-style pancakes might seem fancy—but they’re actually cheap, easy, and endlessly versatile. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little butter, you can whip up a meal (or dessert!) that looks gourmet but costs pennies.

Let me share my go-to crepe recipe that’s been a kitchen staple for years. It’s so flexible, I use it for sweet berry-stuffed crepes, savory ham-and-cheese rollups, and even dessert crepes with chocolate drizzle. All with the same batter.

Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients:

 1/2 cup butter

 1 pint (2 cups) heavy whipping cream

 4 oz cream cheese

 1/2 tsp minced garlic

 1 tsp garlic powder

 1 tsp Italian Seasoning

 1/4 tsp salt

 1/4 tsp black pepper

 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

 Instructions

 1. In stainless steel skillet, melt butter and add heavy whipping cream and cream cheese. Cook over medium heat until everything is melted and combined.

 2. Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, & pepper. Continue to whisk until throughally combined.

 3. Bring to a simmer and continue cooking until it starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

 4, Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.

 5. Add to your favorite pasta or speghetti squash

Kuchen Bars: A Sweet Slice of Dakota-German Tradition in Every Bite

If you grew up anywhere near the upper Midwest—especially in North or South Dakota—there’s a good chance you’ve heard the word Kuchen tossed around during family gatherings, church potlucks, or holiday bake sales. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a cultural mainstay, a symbol of heritage, and, in many homes, a time-honored tradition passed down through generations.

This recipe for Kuchen Bars is a modern twist on the old-world classic, transforming a traditionally time-intensive treat into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing pan of layered goodness. It keeps the essence of the original—creamy custard, sweet fruit, and buttery crust—but simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.

Cozy Up with the Best Potato Soup You’ll Ever Make

 Comfort in a Bowl: A Creamy, Bacon-Loaded Classic

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🥣 A Hug in a Bowl

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hot bowl of potato soup. It’s hearty, creamy, simple—but far from boring. For our family, this recipe has been a go-to for years. It started as a way to stretch ingredients and warm up a cold day, but over time, it became a tradition. Whether it’s a snowed-in Sunday or a casual weeknight dinner, this potato soup brings everyone to the table—bowls in hand, ready for seconds.

What sets this recipe apart? Real ingredients, rich flavor, and a generous helping of bacon. The texture is velvety thanks to cream cheese and Parmesan, while the dill adds a bright, herbaceous finish that lifts the whole dish. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both rustic and indulgent.