American

Fred Provenzano of Seattle, Washington, writes: "While in Washington, D.C., for a convention, I discovered a delightful restaurant, The Little Fountain Cafe. It was so good that I went back for dinner two more times during my stay. Can you persuade pastry chef Lauren Cooper to divulge her recipe for chocolate chip bread pudding?" The pudding can be assembled up to one day ahead, then popped into the oven just before you sit down for dinner.

This hearty winter stew has rich, deep flavors that improve if the stew rests in the refrigerator overnight. what to drink: Rioja, Syrah, or any medium-bodied red wine with soft berry fruit and some spice.

Maple squash is a time-honored Thanksgiving staple, but there are plenty of other ways to go with butternut. See our variations, below, for a few ideas. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 45 min

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 hr

I like to mix up several kinds of apples for great-tasting applesauce. I prefer it coarse, so I cook it for a short time and then mash it only slightly.

A crisp is one of the easiest desserts that a nonbaker can make.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

It may be corn season, but canned or frozen corn kernels work just as well as fresh in this corn salad. A mixed green salad rounds out the menu nicely.

You won't miss butter and syrup when this honey-sweetened fruit treat tops the pancakes. It's also delicious with waffles, French toast or on its own.

Choose a medium-sized head of cabbage and remove the tough outer leaves. It is important to slice the cabbage very thinly. The dressing will break down the harsh texture and soften the slaw.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The following hors d'oeuvre, a variation on the BLT, can be put together quickly if the ingredients are prepared a few hours ahead and assembled just before serving. Finely diced mozzarella would be a nice addition to the salad filling. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The apple-essence syrup is brushed over the cake to infuse it with flavor and make it extra-moist. If you prefer, substitute apple cider for the brandy.

Serve these with a creamy potato gratin. Market Tip: Avoid steaks with lots of cartilage — they will be tough and chewy.

Similar to pumpkin pie, but not quite as sweet. Serve with whipped cream, if you like.

All-American apple pie cannot be ascribed to any single region of the United States, of course. But this straightforward pie--no raisins, no spirits, no creamy accompaniments--is a heartland basic.