Herbs & Spices

You will need about 2 medium sweet potatoes to obtain 2 cups cooked flesh. We like the flavor of roasted potatoes best, but you could also use boiled or steamed potatoes. Before using, peel and discard the skins.

If any drink was made for leisurely back-porch sipping, it’s iced tea. Our version is brewed from zesty hibiscus tea, which is made from copperyred hibiscus leaves and is naturally caffeine free. Ginger syrup and lemon juice add layers of flavor.

This ginger beer is very spicy. Adjust the amount of lime juice and sugar to your taste.

Almost any type of fruit nectar can be substituted for peach with equally delectable results. We especially like the exotic flavor of mango.

If yellow zucchini are unavailable, you can use all green zucchini to make this pie.

These herb-flecked cookies are at once sweet and savory, making them perfect in the afternoon, with a cup of Earl Grey tea. They can also be served after dinner as a light dessert.

Be sure your kitchen is well ventilated when you soak the New Mexican and guajillo chiles; their vapors can be a mild irritant.

This cake is best when served the day it is made. You can bake the cake in the morning and finish it later in the day. It can stand in a cool place for about 3 hours before serving. Marrons glacés (whole candied chestnuts) are available in specialty food stores.