Braised brisket began as poverty cuisine—a method of low-and-slow cooking that was capable of transforming a cheap, tough cut of meat into something desirable. Over time, it has become one of the most iconic dishes of the Jewish American kitchen.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Ina Garten’s Red Wine–Braised Short Ribs
This may be my favorite recipe ever. In the winter when it’s really cold, a hearty stew of beef short ribs simmered with a whole bottle of red wine, a bottle of Guinness, and lots of vegetables, is about the most comforting dinner you can possibly imagine.
Ina Garten’s Butternut Squash Gratin
I cook the squash with garlic and a little nutmeg, then put it in a gratin dish with a topping of crunchy bread crumbs and Gruyère cheese. This is serious comfort food on a cold winter night.
Ina Garten’s Haricots Verts with Hazelnuts & Dill
The French chef Joël Robuchon has been known to say he limits his dishes to no more than three dominant flavors so you appreciate the intrinsic flavors of a dish. Here I flavor French string beans with toasted hazelnuts and fresh dill, and I think they all work really well together.
Gulf Coast Shrimp Tacos
The confluence of lightly charred shrimp with crunchy cabbage slaw and an audacious amount of hot sauce is my idea of the perfect warm-weather meal.
Grilled Vegetable Salad with Brown Butter Vinaigrette
Grilling vegetables and dressing them with a rich dressing is a revelation. Use as many colors and varieties of vegetables as possible.
