• White Hayman Sweet Potato Pie

    I know that we made much ado about tomatoes a few weeks back, but I actually did take a moment between tomato sandwiches to look forward to fall vegetables. They may not have the same glamour and prestige, but fall crops are comforting, dependable, and versatile. The rainbow of cauliflowers are irresistible. I never seem…

  • “Cymlings”

    According to culinary historian Michael Twitty, cymlings “have a special place in early African American history as they were one of the few squash commonly grown and consumed by the enslaved community.” And certainly this recipe hails from a plantation where that fact is relevant. “The Plains” (also known as Ophan’s Gift, demolished in 1958)…

  • Baked Acorn Squash

    This recipe was contributed to “Maryland’s Way”, the Hammond-Harwood House cookbook by Mrs. J Reany Kelly, known as Elizabeth Frances King until she married Mr. Kelly in 1921. Reany Kelly was a historian of Anne Arundel county and beyond, archiving photos of many Maryland historic homes for a collection now belonging Maryland Historical Society. Surprisingly,…

  • Scrapple, a first attempt

    In 2007, my friend hosted a “gross food” party. Everyone was requested to bring something from their childhood, a family favorite perhaps, something that might strike outsiders as a little gross. Ketchup Fried Rice was enjoyed. There was Ribs & Kraut. Some bozo who didn’t catch the net brought Popeyes. I took the opportunity to…