Stew

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The secret to this dish is to trim the okra very carefully at the top, cutting the stem without cutting open the okra at all.

Although this recipe doesn't produce the familiar-looking red chili--it's more green than red--it does turn out a chili that has become one of our staff favorites.

This is delicious served with French bread or over steamed rice.

"Here is a simple dish I came up with that is especially good during the cold months, as the chipotle chiles can be pretty fiery," says B. Fairbrother of Chicago, Illinois. "My Mexican neighbors were the inspiration."

Kathy Lee, Valley Center, Calif.
If you can't find a package of thighs at the market, buy whole chickens. You (or the butcher) can cut up the chickens and freeze the leftover pieces for another use.

Chervil's delicate anise flavor enhances the season's baby vegetables. If you don't have chervil, substitute fresh dill.

Chef Jody Adams of Rialto at The Charles Hotel in Cambridge is famous for this type of rustic dish. At the restaurant she serves the stew on mashed potatoes.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.

(Braised Chicken with Vinegar and Tarragon)

At New York's Nosmo King (the name is a clever twist on "no smoking"), Alan Harding does a terrific job of cooking upscale food with almost entirely organic ingredients.

This sophisticated soup and salad combination makes a cozy winter lunch for friends.