Country@Heart Dinner Diaries
Tasso: America’s Great Unknown Secret Ingredient
By Tim H. Martin
So, what is tasso? I believe it’s the best-kept secret ingredient in all of American food culture. Unless you’re from the Cajun Country of southern Louisiana, you’ve probably never heard of it — even my spell-checker... READ MORE
Alabama Red Beans & Rice
By Tim H. Martin
I've had a couple of friends from New Orleans ask me what made these "Alabama" red beans and rice. I reminded them that Louisiana isn't the only state with Cajun and Creole culture. Alabama has plenty of Cajuns, too, down in our own bayou ... READ MORE
The Gumbo Paddle
By Tim H. Martin
Heirloom Tool For Rowing Rivers of Roux. I'm one of those cooks who's difficult to buy gifts for because I already have pretty much every kitchen gadget there is. While surfing Facebook last December, I saw a rustic hand-carved gumbo paddle... READ MORE
Sara’s Beef Stew
By Tim H. Martin
Recipe courtesy of J. Wayne Fears and his book “The Lodge Book of Dutch Oven Cooking.” Makes 6-8 portions Ingredients: 1 package Adolph’s Beef Stew Mix2 tablespoons vegetable oil3 pounds beef round, cut into 1-inch cubes1... READ MORE
Midnight Mac & Cheese
By Tim H. Martin
I've just learned that my great aunt Lendol Bryan passed away at the age of 96. She was one of the sweetest, most gracious ladies I've ever known. Aunt Lendol was well-known around my little hometown in north Alabama for her good humor, her... READ MORE