cooking

Comfort Foods That Practically Cook Themselves

by Staff


Comfort food has a way of wrapping us in warmth, bringing a sense of nostalgia, and making even the toughest days a little easier. The best part? Some of the most satisfying dishes require little effort. Whether you’re busy with work, tired from daily responsibilities, or simply want a low-maintenance meal, there are plenty of comfort foods that practically cook themselves.

Central Valley Spices

by Mallory Moad



Spices. They’ve been around for thousands of years, serving numerous purposes: commodities, currency, medicine, and status. History shows the spice trade once having been so powerful it influenced the rise and fall of early nations. And, of course, spices have always been a critical ingredient in food, something that hasn’t changed over time.

Are You a Home Cook Ready to Impress? Master These Techniques!

by Staff


Cooking at home can be a rewarding experience, especially when you have the right techniques to elevate your dishes from everyday fare to gourmet masterpieces. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to spice up your family meals, mastering certain cooking techniques can significantly enhance your culinary creations. In this blog, we will share essential cooking techniques that every home cook should know to impress their guests and enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home.

Serving Up SpiteBy Devon Delaney: Review/Giveaway/Valentine’s Day Post

by Tracy Condie
& Devon Delaney


In book 8 of the Cook-Off Mystery series, it seems that strife and cold weather have come to the town of Augustin, Connecticut in the way of an age-old argument about progress versus tradition. As with all Sally Oliveri books, there is a new cooking contest for Sally to participate in when she isn’t solving the mystery, and wonderful recipes are shared at the conclusion of the mystery.

5 Great Legume Recipes That You’ll Never Tire Of

by staff


Legumes are highly nutritious and a great source of plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Beans and pulses make up part of the legume family, are incredibly affordable, and offer so many versatile meal plan options. They are a fantastic staple that should be a common part of your diet. Try these budget-friendly, versatile, and nutritious recipes for your next meal with your family or for a late weeknight dinner made in an instant.

Graceful Bakes: Bringing Delicious Baked Sweets to Reedley

by Lorie Lewis Ham


Earlier this year KRL wrote about a young woman named Natalie Cruz from Reedley who started her own coffee company, Zolú Café. When I attended the Reedley Farmers Market at Reedley College a few weeks ago to meet Natalie in person and finally try her coffee for myself (which is awesome by the way), I also met another young Reedley woman who had started her own business—Grace Fedor.

Clovis Culinary Center: A Food Entrepreneur’s Dream Come True

by Tom Sims



Through the years, I have followed and reported on many food entrepreneurs, people with vision, skill, talent, flair, and a great idea. Some have succeeded and some have failed. All have faced similar challenges: location, or buying equipment without having to invest more money than they have for acquisition and maintenance. But what if a common location existed for creating culinary masterpieces with adequate equipment, storage space, support, and 24-hour access?

Christmas Traditions: Tamales

by Jim Mulligan


I would imagine that not many family traditions can be traced back ten thousand years. The Gates family, like many families who trace their roots to Mexico, can do just that. Lesley Olvera Gates, her husband Tony, their two daughters Maddy and Morgan, and their extended family, continue a tradition of Christmas Eve tamale making and eating that Lesley remembers as an integral part of her earliest childhood memories—and it literally has ancient beginnings.