Turning an exhaustive listicle of culinary gems into an engaging blog post requires a mix of narrative flair and practical guidance. Here's how we can wrap up these delectable selections from Serious Eats:
Kenji’s Picks: The Culinary Journey Through 2016's Most Memorable Recipes
In the vast world of culinary exploration, the journey is often as delectable as the destination. This year, J. Kenji López-Alt, a revered culinary consultant at Serious Eats and acclaimed author of "The Food Lab," offers a deliciously curated collection of his favorite recipes from 2016. From crispy chicken thighs to the ultimate BLT, these recipes are bound to transform your kitchen adventures from mundane to magical.
1. Crispy Braised Chicken Thighs with Cabbage and Bacon
Imagine a single pot where crispy-skinned chicken meets tender cabbage adorned with bacon and mustard. This dish promises simplicity, affordability, and a culinary spectacle of flavors. With its enticing aroma and irresistible taste, it’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. Get the Recipe
2. The Best Roast Potatoes Ever
Bold claims require bold flavors. Kenji assures that these roast potatoes are unlike any other. The secret? Par-boiling in alkaline water to break down the potatoes' pectin, ensuring more surface area for a crispier crunch. Throw a dinner party, serve these, and witness your guests' delight. Get the Recipe
3. Sicilian Pizza with Pepperoni and Spicy Tomato
Craving New York pizza in the Californian sunshine led to this masterpiece: a homemade recreation of the Spicy Spring from Prince Street Pizza. This pie is smothered in spicy tomato sauce and mozzarella with a delectable layer of crispy pepperoni. Get the Recipe
4. Daniel's Ribollita
A fortuitous overload of garden vegetables and neighborly breads culminated in this hearty Italian soup, described charmingly as "the soup that's also a pancake." From soup to stew and beyond, it’s a comforting way to use whatever veggies you have on hand. Get the Recipe
5. Cacio e Pepe
This Roman classic is a late-night marvel, transforming pasta into a creamy, peppery delight. The magic lies in the modest amount of liquid used to concentrate the pasta’s starches, creating an invitingly smooth sauce. Get the Recipe
6. Thai-Style Beef with Basil and Chilies (Phat Bai Horapha)
With makrut lime leaves at your fingertips, this quick Thai stir-fry showcases their unique citrusy note in a dish abundant with flavor yet simple in execution. Get the Recipe
7. The Ultimate BLT Sandwich
The BLT is more than just bacon, lettuce, and tomato; it's an ode to summer’s finest produce. With slow-cooked bacon, perfectly seasoned tomatoes, and bread toasted in bacon fat, it just might be the pinnacle of sandwich perfection. Learn How to Make It
8. Channa Masala
This beloved chickpea dish stands out with enhanced flavors—caramelized onions made sweeter with a touch of baking soda and spices blended elegantly. Sometimes tradition perfects a dish not by innovation, but by attention to detail. Get the Recipe
9. Falafel
Achieving feather-light, crisp falafel is easy with Kenji’s method. Using dried chickpeas in place of added starch clarifies the path to flavorful success, especially when coupled with zesty zhug sauce. Get the Recipe
10. Homemade McRib (A.K.A. The Ribby McRibface)
This ambitious project promises homemade delights at every level, from ribs to pickles and buns. Ideal for those who relish a culinary challenge, the effort richly rewards with a truly unique sandwich experience. Get the Recipe
Kenji’s favored recipes reflect more than just meals; they narrate stories of discovery, memories forged in flavors, and the unending joy derived from sharing the craft of cooking. Whether you're seeking the comforting embrace of classic dishes or the bold excitement of innovative twists, this collection invites you to savor each moment spent in your kitchen.
This style engages the reader with vivid imagery and context, drawing attention to each recipe's story and unique appeal while maintaining a welcoming tone for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.