Vietnamese chefs introduced Californians to the delights of five-spice chicken, and the dish is now entrenched in the Golden State repertoire. A cool, crunchy, lime-laced cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the highly seasoned chicken. The marinade makes the chicken skin extra-crisp and tasty, so purchase skin-on thighs if possible. View recipe →
Butternut squash and fennel make a compelling duo in soup. The licorice-like fennel adds an herbal dimension and keeps the puree from being too sweet. Serve in small portions at Thanksgiving or to launch any autumn meal. Or pair with a hearty salad and a cheese course for a simple dinner. View recipe →
When life gives you sweet, California-grown tomatoes, make chilaquiles, a genius use for tortillas that are a few days old. September is the height of the harvest for the meaty plum tomatoes that make thick, flavorful sauce. Resist the temptation to substitute store-bought tortilla chips for the home-fried tortillas; the chips soften too much, and the result is not nearly as satisfying. View recipe →
Cooking duck breasts slowly, skin side down, helps eliminate almost every speck of fat. After about 20 minutes, the skin will be crisp and the flesh as rosy and tender as a fine steak. A silky port and cherry sauce makes this a restaurant-caliber dish. Serve with wild rice. View recipe →
Spain’s aromatic pimentón de la Vera (smoked paprika) gives these succulent chicken thighs a deep, ruddy color as they roast on a bed of red onion and sliced Meyer lemon. You’ll want to serve every drop of the lemony, garlicky pan juices. The lemon slices can be eaten or not, as you prefer. View recipe →
A fruity cider and white wine steeped brine is key to this moist and flavorful turkey. Begin the brining process 2 days before roasting. View recipe →
Tender lightly fried chicken, fresh slaw and spicy mayo team up to produce a winning sandwich. Pair with California Sauvignon Blanc or Merlot. View recipe →
This is creamy comfort food with a few surprising additions—and a crispy garlicky topping. Pair with California Chardonnay or Merlot. View recipe →
A succulent rib roast served with peppery herbed ricotta cheese. Pair with California Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. View recipe →
Parsley adds a bright lift of flavor to the smoky grilled eggplant in this Mediterranean-style salad. Pair with California Merlot or Chardonnay. View recipe →
This classic dish highlights the earthy flavors of Portobello mushrooms, the richness of mascarpone polenta and the elegance of seared, rib eye steak. Pair with a California Merlot or California Syrah. View recipe →
A combination of smoky spices and fresh jalapeño impart delicious heat to these hearty chicken tacos. View recipe →
This hearty earthy, woodsy, robust soup is a meal in itself. Serve with California Pinot Noir or Merlot. View recipe →
This mini hamburger is packed with layers of flavor. Serve with a side of crisp, tangy slaw and pair with California Syrah or Merlot. View recipe →
Flatbread gets the best of summer with sweet figs, caramelized onions and tangy blue cheese. View recipe →
These fall-off-the-bone ribs are complemented by the sweet roasted flavor of beets and creamy texture of roasted potatoes. Pair with a California Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. View recipe →
Pair with a California Merlot or California Chardonnay. View recipe →
This modern shot-glass style serving puts a new spin on this traditional smooth and piquant autumn soup. Pair with California Merlot or Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris. View recipe →