A couple of months ago, the talented and lovely Dzintra invited me to participate in her Donna Hay magazine cook ups!
Dzintra is such a creative talent, and one of the kindest souls I know.
I was so thankful and excited, and am pleased to present my first attempt....
Now if you are not familiar with chef Donna Hay, I must tell you that I have been admiring her exquisite magazine for a few years.
Lovely, yes?
Thanks to Dzintra's kind invitation, I finally decided to begin purchasing this gorgeous and artful magazine. Since Dzintra and Donna reside in Australia, the current issue out is Spring...and my local book store lags a bit, so I cooked from the splendid Winter Issue 63...
And that's perfect for our entrance into Fall...
There were so many delightful recipes from which to choose....the photography and styling are outstanding.....
Naturally, I decided to choose my main dish from the Winter in Paris feature...yes, please!
"French Onion Soup with Gruyere Croutons"
page 85
onions caramelizing nicely
Voila!
Since this was my first attempt at cooking French Onion Soup, I must admit, I was a bit nervous...especially because I was posting my results for all to see..
But it came out really delicious...
I did substitute chicken stock for beef since I don't eat red meat...and the next time I make this soup I will omit the flour, for it thickens up a bit too much for me...but overall...magnifique! :)
For dessert...
"Banana Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Icing"
p. 60 and 64
of course I had to add some white and dark chocolate chips
a bit of shaved chocolate on top
now to taste...
anz
Mmmmmm!
Add a bit of this...
Some lovely company....
And it makes for a special evening indeed!
Merci my dear friend...looking forward to the next issue.
Do visit Dzintra's lovely world here.
Bon Appetit!
