Over the River and Through the Woods . . .

I am off to see my new granddaughter for Thanksgiving in Idaho, where I will also see my four grandsons, one of whom I haven't yet seen. See you when I get back . . .

Duck Confit

Some barnyard quackers became duck confit this week. I cannot provide a better recipe than Tom Colichhio's from Gramercy Tavern, NY, NY--it is just as done in the old days. Do try, as one reviewer suggests, using rock salt--it is easier to brush off the meat [keep the meat in one layer--using a bowl causes too much liquid to be withdrawn from the flesh and makes for dry confit]. When your duck is cooked, layer the meat in your confit pot and pour in duck fat to cover--it should keep for weeks in your spring house [refrigerator].

NEVER thow out confit fat! Duck fat left from confit adds an unctiousness that is unbeatable in flavoring soups, stews and casseroles. Use it for frying bread for croutons to use in the bottom of bowls for ladling on soups like garbure.


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Bread Pudding

Sometimes when I know I will have a lot to do on the morrow, I take stale bread and soak several slices of it overnight in milk, sugar, a grating of nutmeg or cinnamon and a beaten egg in an oven dish. In the morning I put the dish into a slow oven to become a crusty, but moist, bread pudding for breakfast. Just slather on some butter, pour on some maple syrup and enjoy!