Rice & Grains

South of Goa, the coastline of Karnataka state is scalloped with palm, mango, and jackfruit trees. This recipe comes from the city of Mangalore, where it is usually made with bangade, a small fish resembling smelt. We used salmon for this curry. And, when we can find them, we toss in about 10 fresh curry leaves along with the onion, garlic, and gingerroot.

This would be nice with warm tortillas.

Offer pita bread alongside.

Dried pears lend a subtle sweetness to the deep, earthy taste of this stuffing.

Using meat loaf mix — a combination of ground beef, veal, and pork — ensures a juicy result. While the meat loaf cooks, mash some potatoes and boil some green beans. Warm apple pie from the bakery is a perfect finale.

A modern recipe from a modern woman: This is based on a recipe from my friend Joanne Rosen, a high-powered attorney who balances her torts and tarts, her husband and her children, with great finesse. Accompany the scones with English clotted cream (or crème fraîche) and honey.

This lovely first course has the texture of risotto without the constant stirring. What to drink: Arneis or Soave.

A little bit of smoked mozzarella goes a long way in boosting flavor without adding much fat. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 hr

This recipe is an accompaniment for Grilled Marinated Lamb Chops with Balsamic Cherry Tomatoes .

This recipe is a great use for cold leftover rice. Order extra rice with Chinese takeout or make a double batch of your own one night — you can keep it, chilled, up to 1 week. Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 35 min