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The Genius Recipe Tapes

Food52·Hosted by Kristen Miglore·164 episodes

ArtsBooksFoodLeisureHomeGardenFood52Host-led interviewsHome cookingRecipe stories15-30 minStandalone episodes

A weekly show from Food52's new podcast network, featuring all the uncut gems from the weekly "Genius Recipes" column and video series. Host Kristen Miglore speaks to the geniuses behind iconic recipes, and uncovers the recipes that changed the way we cook.

Why listen

The Genius Recipe Tapes turns recipe talk into practical kitchen storytelling. Host Kristen Miglore talks with cookbook authors, chefs, and food writers about the small choices that make a dish memorable, so listeners come away with both a story and a cooking idea they can actually use. It is a strong fit for curious home cooks who like smart shortcuts, food culture, and warm expert conversations.

Episodes

20 min
Dec 13, 2023Episode 124
A Game Changing Granola from Jenné Claiborne

There are so many recipes out there to make granola, but then there are recipes that are Simply Genius. Jenné Claiborne's recipe bakes up faster and easier than any recipe out there by thoughtfully omitting what you may have thought was a crucial ingredient.Referenced in this episode Why Jenné Claiborne's Tahini Granola is Genius (Article)Jenné Claiborne's book, Sweet Potato SoulGenius-Hunter Extra CreditGet a signed copy of Kristen's book, Simply Genius, to find this and so many other incredible and simply genius recipesHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

29 min
Sep 13, 2023Episode 123
Not Just Another Chicken Caesar Salad | Ali Slagle

Referenced in this episode Ali Slagle's Not Just Another Chicken Caesar SaladAli's Book,  I Dream of Dinner (So You Don't Have To)Ali's Biscotti Recipe Genius-Hunter Extra CreditKristen's OG fried toast inspiration: Borlotti Beans on Toast with Greens (Food52)Follow Ali on Instagram @itsalislagleHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

35 min
Jun 26, 2023Episode 122
A Pie Whisperer’s Top Thanksgiving Tips | Erin Jeanne McDowell

There're enough stressors around the holidays to let your dessert be one of them, so we sat down with Erin Jeanne McDowell to get some tips on ways to bring flawless pies to the table. Referenced in this episode Savory Baking CookbookClover RollsPâte BriséeDouble crust chicken pot pieGenius-Hunter Extra CreditErin Jean McDowell's Bake It Up A Notch Youtube channelErin Jean McDowell's InstagramOrder Kristen's newest book, Simply Genius Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

7 min
Jun 13, 2023
Anna Sulan Masing makes Sarawak White Chicken

Anna Sulan Masing, host of Whetstone Radio's Taste of Place podcast cooks her way through Mandy Yin's incredible Sarawak Chicken recipeRecipeMarinate 6 skinless chicken thighs, with the bone-in just with salt, leave for 1/2hour on the kitchen bench to get it to room temperatureBlitz up spice paste: 200g roughly chopped onion, 2 garlic cloves, 2.5cm of ginger root, 2 stalks of lemongrass also roughly choppedToast 1tsp of black peppercorns, and 1 tsp of white peppercorns - choose any good quality peppercorns. This is done on a very low heat, without oil until fragrant. Then, grind it into a fine powder ideally in a mortar & pestleIn a medium sized saucepan slowly get 3 tbsp of oil warm, then add in the pepper powder and the spice paste. Fry off until the oil splits - no longer than 10minsAdd in the chicken, 450g (1lb) of roughly chopped tomatoes, 300mls of water, 5 laksa leaves (or a bunch of mint) with stalks. Bring to boil then let simmer for 20min. Keep an eye on it and stirr at regular intervals.Add in 100mls of coconut milk, stir and cook for another 5minsServe with rice!Is there a recipe you'd like to hear us make? Tell us all about it at [email protected]!Lobby Time Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

22 min
May 22, 2023Episode 121
What it means to be First Generation | Frankie Gaw

Referenced in this episode First Generation: Recipes from My Taiwanese-American HomeFrankie's Website Frankie's Instagram Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

23 min
May 18, 2023Episode 120
Who Needs Added Sugar? Not This Cookbook

Referenced in this episode Good & Sweet CookbookBrian Levy's SiteBrian Levy on Instagram Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

17 min
May 15, 2023Episode 119
Making Butter from Corn

Referenced in this episode:Sweet Corn Butter recipeHow to Magically Turn Corn Into Butter (Food52)Genius-Hunter Extra-Credit:The jewelry company Whitney founded to connect and empower womenCheck out Lukas Volger's corn tofu: Butter It, Tofu It, Dip It. But Don’t Boil It. (Taste)View transcriptHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it! I'm at [email protected].

14 min
May 11, 2023Episode 118
Our All-Time Favorite Snacks

Catch up on the rest of the incredible conversations we had with the guests featured on this episode  Ali Slagle's EpisodeJesse Spark's EpisodeCheryl Day's EpisodeBrian Hogan Stewart's EpisodeEric Kim's EpisodeKristina Cho's EpisodeRoxana Jullapat's EpisodeEsther Choi's EpisodeJulie Sahni's Episode Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

26 min
May 8, 2023Episode 117
The Joy of (Talking About) Cooking | Jesse Sparks

Referenced in this episode Brown Butter Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies (Bon Appétit)Kristen's (other!) One Recipe Melissa Clark’s Stovetop Mac & Cheese  (Food52)Genius-Hunter Extra CreditListen to Jesse on The One Recipe Podcast (The Splendid Table)Follow Jesse on InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

26 min
May 8, 2023Episode 116
Genius Sessions: Let's Talk About the Word 'Exotic' | Daniela Galarza

Referenced in this episode:Stop Calling Food Exotic (The Washington Post)Reader commentary to Daniela's 'Exotic' recipes? Let's talk about why there's really no such thing Pantry RamenGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Subscribe to Daniela's Eat Voraciously NewsletterHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell us all about it at [email protected].

21 min
May 4, 2023Episode 115
The Most Huggable Pasta Sauce | Francis Lam

Referenced in this episode:The Silkiest Pasta Sauce From Any Veg You've Got (Food52)Pasta With Silkiest Eggplant Sauce from Francis LamGenius  Food52 Genius Recipes: 100 Recipes That Will Change the Way You CookGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Tune into Francis' various episodes on The Splendid Table PodcastSpecial thanks to listeners Devangi and Karen! Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell us all about it at [email protected].

18 min
May 4, 2023Episode 114
Great-Grandma's Salsa Secret | Andrea Aliseda

Referenced in this episode:Salsa Guille recipe from Andrea Aliseda  on Food52Additional writings by Andrea AlisedaGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Unlocking Nixtamal for EpicuriousHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell us all about it at [email protected] to Mexico  by Andrea Aliseda (English Version)I close my eyes and see myself perched at the steps of an old cathedral the air, abundant and thick; a paradise for the senses, as I cradle calla lilies in the fold of my arms I have a little coffee to linger in the poetry of the bugambilias outside the home of the late Gael García Márquez, who rests in peace I devour my heart gushing of salsa amor as if it were a torta and lick my fingers savoring every last bite the united states doesn’t taste quite like this (Spanish Version )cierro los ojos, y me veo sentada en la entrada de un catedral el aire, pleno y lleno: un paraíso para el olfato arrullando flores de alcatraz entre mis brazos con un cafecito para echarle ojo a la poesía de la bugambilia, frente la casa del Don Gael García Márquez, que en paz descanse. mastico mi corazón, escurriendo de salsa amor como si fuera torta y me chupo los dedos de lo delicioso que está, en los estados unidos, no saben cocinar así.

17 min
May 1, 2023Episode 113
What Do Clementines Have to Do With Dodgeballs? | Brette Warshaw

Referenced in this episode:What's the Difference?: Recreational Culinary Reference for the Curious and ConfusedGenius-Hunter Extra Credit:Sign up to receive Brette's newsletter each weekRead more by Brette on Food52Shout out Erin McDowell - Food52's Resident Baking BFF!Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

27 min
Apr 27, 2023Episode 112
7 Women Who Changed the Way We Cook | Mayukh Sen

Referenced in this episode:Mayukh's new book, Taste Makers: Seven Immigrant Women Who Revolutionized Food in AmericaGenius-Hunter Extra Credit:This piece, written by Mayukh, is what encouraged Coconut & Sambal author Lara Lee to seek out Sri, and ask her to be her culinary mentorShe Was a Soul Food Sensation. Then, 19 Years Ago, She Disappeared.

20 min
Apr 27, 2023Episode 111
Why I Couldn't Quit the Farm | Matthew Raiford

As someone who has tried (and oftentimes failed) to record and preserve her own family recipes, Kristen really connected with chefarmer-turned-author Matthew Raiford's mission to document the dishes and stories from his. For this week's Genius Session, Kristen goes behind the scenes with Matthew, as he shares his process of writing Bress 'n' Nyam: Gullah Geechee Recipes from a Sixth-Generation Farmer.Referenced in this episode:Bress 'n' Nyam: Gullah Geechee Recipes from a Sixth-Generation FarmerWatermelon Steak Salad With Heirloom Tomatoes & Sangria Vinaigrette recipeGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Peep this excerpt from the "Eart/Earth" chapterMatthew's Gullah Rice to make tonight

15 min
Apr 24, 2023Episode 110
Chicken Nuggets Are Cooking Too | Joshua David Stein

Referenced in this episode:Cooking for Your KidsGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Can I Eat That? Children's book (by Joshua David Stein)Dive into Joshua's stories on literally anybody and anything Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell us all about it at [email protected].

28 min
Apr 24, 2023Episode 109
The Perfect Pantry Pupus | Sheldon Simeon

Referenced in this episode:Kim Chee Dip From Sheldon Simeon  (Recipe)Shoyu Dip With Sesame Crunch From Sheldon Simeon (Recipe)Cook Real Hawaii by Sheldon SimeonGenius-Hunter Extra Credit:Follow Sheldon on  InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

25 min
Apr 20, 2023Episode 108
Lessons from a Legend | Julie Sahni

Referenced in this episode Sarsoon ka Saag (Fragrant Butter-Laced Pureed Mustard Greens) From Julie Sahni Watch this recipe (food52)Classic Indian Vegetarian and Grain CookingGenius-Hunter Extra CreditJulie Sahni's Curried Avocado with Garlic and Green ChilesLearn Indian cooking from the master herself - Take a cooking class with JulieHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

21 min
Apr 20, 2023Episode 107
A Fattoush for Every Season | Reem Assil

Referenced in this episode Arabiyya: Recipes from the Life of an Arab in DiasporaSalatet Fattoush (California Fattoush Salad)Genius-Hunter Extra CreditReem Assil on InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

25 min
Apr 17, 2023Episode 106
Nope, You Don't Need to Rest Cookie Dough | Jessie Sheehan

Referenced in this episodeEpic Snickerdoodles for Stephanie RecipeSnackable Bakes: 100 Easy-Peasy Recipes for Exceptionally Scrumptious Sweets and TreatsGenius-Hunter Extra CreditJessie Sheehan's InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

29 min
Apr 13, 2023Episode 105
Caramelizing Kimchi and Hacking the Pantry | Esther Choi

Referenced in this episode Get your culinary questions answered - listen to Esther on the Hotline Offline PodcastEsther's White Kimchi RecipeKristen gushes about THIS Sheet Pan Pierogies with Brussels Sprouts and Kimchi recipe (New York Times)Genius-Hunter Extra CreditFollow Esther on her Instagram pageWanna taste? Check out and try out Mokbar -- they ship Nationwide!Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

20 min
Apr 10, 2023Episode 104
A Game Changing Granola from Jenné Claiborne

There are so many recipes out there to make granola, but then there are recipes that are Simply Genius. Jenné Claiborne's recipe bakes up faster and easier than any recipe out there by thoughtfully omitting what you may have thought was a crucial ingredient.Referenced in this episode Why Jenné Claiborne's Tahini Granola is Genius (Article)Jenné Claiborne's book, Sweet Potato SoulGenius-Hunter Extra CreditGet a signed copy of Kristen's book, Simply Genius, to find this and so many other incredible and simply genius recipesHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

25 min
Apr 6, 2023Episode 103
A Secret Society's Crispiest Potatoes

Special thanks to listeners Kayla (@kaylacalbano), Rachel (@craftsandcrumbs), and Oumaima (@lemonshmallow) for your potato-tales.Referenced in this episode:Ultra-Crispy Roast Potatoes From a Secret Indonesian Cooking Club—Plus 20 Beginner Recipes I’m Still Hunting (Food52)Crispy Soy & Ginger Roast Potatoes recipeand of course, Lara's stunning book, Coconut & SambalGenius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Read about how Lara put this book together on Cherry BombeMayukh Sen's beautiful profile of Sri Owen that Lara stumbled across 3 years ago (Food52)P.S. Help me hunt the 20 remaining recipes for the forthcoming genius beginners book! See the full list and join the conversation here.

25 min
Apr 3, 2023Episode 102
Oops! Dreamy-Smooth Hummus

Referenced in this episode:Whipped Hummus With Roasted Carrots & Za'atar Oil recipeDreamy-Smooth Hummus From a Kitchen Oops (Food52) Genius-Hunter Extra Credit:Everything you ever wanted to know about magical bean water, aquafabaHetty's podcast, The House SpecialsView transcriptHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it! I'm at [email protected].

18 min
Mar 30, 2023Episode 101
The Perfect Biscuit

Kristen Miglore, lifelong Genius hunter, speaks with chef, cookbook author, and TV personality Carla Hall. Of Top Chef and Carla Hall's Soul Food fame, Carla talks about the genius buttermilk biscuit recipe she's spent decades perfecting.Referenced in this episode:The Genius Secrets to Carla Hall’s Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits (Food52)Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits with Carla Hall (Genius Recipes | YouTube)Genius-Hunter Extra-Credit:Join Carla Hall on Instagram at 11 EST daily for... recess!View transcript

17 min
Mar 27, 2023Episode 100
How to Turn Corn Into Butter

Referenced in this episode:Sweet Corn Butter recipeHow to Magically Turn Corn Into Butter (Food52)Genius-Hunter Extra-Credit:The jewelry company Whitney founded to connect and empower womenCheck out Lukas Volger's corn tofu: Butter It, Tofu It, Dip It. But Don’t Boil It. (Taste)View transcriptHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it! I'm at [email protected].*GENIUSHUNTERS is valid towards 10% off all Five Two products, max redemption $100. Offer valid starting 10/28/2020 at 12:01am ET through 11/28/2020 at 11:59pm ET, while supplies last. User must be logged into a Food52 account to apply, limit one use per customer. Valid in the U.S. on in stock items only. Cannot be redeemed for cash, combined with other offers, or applied to previous orders. To redeem, enter code GENIUSHUNTERS at checkout.

18 min
Mar 23, 2023Episode 99
A Sunny One-Bowl Citrus Cake | Yasmin Khan

Referenced in this episode Citrus Cake From Yasmin Khan (Recipe)Yasmin's book,  Ripe Figs: Recipes and Stories from Turkey, Greece, and CyprusGenius-Hunter Extra CreditFollow Yasmin on Instagram More backstory, The story behind Ripe FigsHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

29 min
Mar 20, 2023Episode 98
Not Just Another Chicken Caesar Salad | Ali Slagle

Referenced in this episode Ali Slagle's Not Just Another Chicken Caesar SaladAli's Book,  I Dream of Dinner (So You Don't Have To)Ali's Biscotti Recipe Genius-Hunter Extra CreditKristen's OG fried toast inspiration: Borlotti Beans on Toast with Greens (Food52)Follow Ali on Instagram @itsalislagleHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected].

25 min
Jan 18, 2023Episode 97
A Tastier, Easier Chocolate Oats | Sam Seneviratne

Referenced in this episode Sam Seneviratne's WebsiteJoy of Baking Genius-Hunter Extra CreditCook and a Half - Sam's cooking show co-hosted with her son, ArtieBanana Bread Scones - A previous Genius recipe from Sam Seneviratne's Joy of BakingKristen's newest book, Simply GeniusHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

6 min
Jan 11, 2023Episode 96
Farokh Talati makes Masala Oats on Play Me a Recipe

Join Chef Farokh Talati on our Play Me a Recipe Podcast as he cooks through Masala Oats, his go-to quick breakfast that brings warmth, tang, and everything else you need for the day ahead from his new cookbook Parsi: From Persia to Bombay: recipes & tales from the ancient culture.RecipeServes 4For Oats100g ghee or unsalted butter1 small red onion, finely diced1 celery stick, finely diced1 carrot, peeled and finely diced1 large tomato, finely chopped2 small green chillies, finely chopped1 tablespoon garam masala1 teaspoon salt100g rolled oats or porridge oats¼ teaspoon ground turmeric a pinch of hing (asafoetida)500ml chicken stock or water4 tablespoons tangy onions (see below)a small handful of well-chopped curlyleaf parsley freshly cracked black pepperFor Tangy Onions1 small red onion2 generous tablespoons apple cider vinegar1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon black pepperTo Make the OatsMelt the ghee or butter in a sturdy-bottomed pot over a low heat. When hot, add the onion, celery and carrot and cook for about 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the vegetables have softened, but none have taken on any colour.Add the tomato, chillies, garam masala and salt. Season with a few healthy grinds of black pepper and stir everything together. Increase the heat to medium and cook for 3 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down.Add the oats, turmeric, hing and stock or water. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, stirring continuously, for about 2–4 minutes, until the oats cook and thicken – you want the consistency of a well-formed but loose porridge, as this is the essence of what you’re creating.Place the hot masala oats in serving bowls and top each with a spoonful of tangy onions (see below) and a sprinkling of chopped parsley.To Make Tangy OnionsTo prepare the tangy onions, peel a small red onion, cut in half, then thinly slice using a mandolin or sharp knife.Sprinkle the salt and cracked black pepper.Sprinkle the apple cider vinegar over the onions and, using your fingers, massage together.

26 min
Jan 4, 2023Episode 95
The Joys of Baking with Joy the Baker

Whether its recreating the iconic moon pie cookie in bar form or using tahini to elevate your go-to recipes, Joy the Baker is chock full of incredible baking tips and tricks to bring into a new year of better baking. Referenced in this episode Joy's Plum and Lemon Curd CakeJoy's Moon Pie BarJoy's Dark Chocolate Tahini Skillet CookieGenius-Hunter Extra CreditJoy the Baker's WebsiteFind Joy on Instagram!Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

19 min
Dec 28, 2022Episode 94
Part Cookie, Part Pastry, All Delicious! Malted Milk Chocolate Rugelach (Play Me a Recipe)

Rugelach is a beloved Jewish treasure originating from Eastern Europe. The cookie-pastry hybrid can be filled with anything from jam to chocolate and is the perfect two-bite treat fit for any holiday spread. This version, a classic chocolate rugelach bolstered with the flavors of creamy milk chocolate and malted milk powder, has a nostalgic flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will shine at any cookie swap.Recipe16 Rugelach Dough2 1/4 cups (288g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar1/4 cup (40g) malted milk powder1 teaspoon kosher salt1 cup (2 sticks/226g) cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch cubes8 ounces (226g) cold cream cheese, cut into ½-inch cubesMalted Milk Chocolate Filling4 ounces (about ⅔ cup/113g) milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate1/3 cup (53g) malted milk powder1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon (6g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon kosher salt1 large egg, for egg wash, plus more if neededsanding sugar, for sprinklingMake the dough: In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment, combine the flour, sugar, ¼ cup malted milk powder, and salt. Process until combined, 10 to 15 seconds. Add the butter and cream cheese and process until a rough, shaggy dough forms that just starts to pull away from the sides of the food processor, 30 to 45 seconds. (If you don’t have a food processor you can pinch and knead the butter and cream cheese into the dry ingredients using clean hands as if you are making pie dough.) Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface, cut in half, and roughly form each half into a rectangle. (Wipe out the food processor, but don’t wash it.) Tightly cover in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.Make the filling: Place the chocolate chips, malted milk powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a blade attachment and process until the mixture is the texture of coarse sand, 25 to 35 seconds. (Alternatively, chop the chocolate into a fine dust and mix with the other ingredients.) Transfer into a bowl and set aside. In another small bowl, crack the egg for the egg wash and beat with a fork until no streaks of unincorporated yolk remain.Unwrap one of the chilled doughs, generously dust with flour, and roll into a 11- by 8-inch rectangle. (The dough can get sticky, so use a bit more flour than normal.) Trim the edges to create crisp lines, if desired. Sprinkle about half of the filling onto the dough in an even layer leaving a ½-inch border on the top and bottom, pressing it in with your hands so it stic

29 min
Dec 21, 2022Episode 93
2022's Most Genius Recipes with Amanda Hesser

A look back at some of our favorite genius recipes of the year with Food52 co-founder and CEO, Amanda HesserReferenced in this episode Julia Turshen's Fried Eggs Lindsay Maitland Hunt's Slow Roasted Chicken with Crispy Skin Yasmin Khan's Stunning Citrus CakeDorie Greenspan's French Yogurt CakeDorie Greenspan's Caramel-y Chocolate CookiesTara O'Brady's Chocolate Chip CookiesJessie Sheehn's Snickerdoodles (Ketchup optional)Ali Slagle's Chicken Caesar SaladMonifa Dayo's Potato Salad  Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

26 min
Dec 14, 2022Episode 92
Salted Cookie Butter Millionaire's Shortbread | Jesse Szewczyk (Play Me a Recipe)

Cook along with Jesse Szewczyk to make these crunchy, perfectly spiced, and understated shortbread cookies that are as delicious dunked into hot coffee as they are eaten all on their own.RecipeMakes 24 bars Shortbread Base1 2/3 cups (214g) all-purpose flour1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar1/2 teaspoon kosher salt12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks/170g) unsalted butter, melted1 large egg yolk1 teaspoon vanilla extractSalted Speculoos Caramel3/4 cup (175 grams) packed light brown sugar4 tablespoons (1/2 stick/57g) unsalted butter1/4 cup (59 ml) light corn syrup1 14-ounce can (414 ml) sweetened condensed milk1/3 cup (90 grams) speculoos cookie butter (see Note)1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 teaspoon kosher saltTopping1/2 cup (about 3 ounces/85 grams) semisweet chocolate chips1/2 cup (about 3 ounces/85 grams) white chocolate chips4 tablespoons (59 ml) whole milk, divided2 tablespoons (36 grams) speculoos cookie butter, dividedFlaky sea salt, for sprinklingMake the shortbread base: Heat the oven 325°F. Grease an 8- by 8-inch baking pan with nonstick pan spray and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on all four sides. In a large bowl combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and stir together until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough into the lined baking pan and press into an even layer. Prick the top several times with a fork and bake until the shortbread is slightly puffed and golden brown in the center, 33 to 38 minutes. Remove from the oven and use the bottom of a measuring cup or a metal spatula to press down on the shortbread to compact it slightly. (This will prevent the bars from crumbling when sliced.) Let the shortbread cool for 30 minutes.While the shortbread is cooling, make the caramel: In a medium saucepan fitted with a candy thermometer, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, speculoos cookie butter, vanilla, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent burning, until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and registers 240°F on the candy thermometer, about 8 to 11 mins. Pour over the shortbread base, spread into an even layer, and transfer into the fridge. Let cool for 1 hour.As the caramel is cooling, make the topping: Place both the white and semisweet chocolate chips in two separate medium, microwave-safe bowls. Add 2 tablespoons whole milk and 1 tablespoon cookie butter to each bowl. Microwave each bowl on high power in 10 second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixt

20 min
Dec 7, 2022Episode 91
A Game Changing Granola from Jenné Claiborne

There are so many recipes out there to make granola, but then there are recipes that are Simply Genius. Jenné Claiborne's recipe bakes up faster and easier than any recipe out there by thoughtfully omitting what you may have thought was a crucial ingredient.Referenced in this episode Why Jenné Claiborne's Tahini Granola is Genius (Article)Jenné Claiborne's book, Sweet Potato SoulGenius-Hunter Extra CreditGet a signed copy of Kristen's book, Simply Genius, to find this and so many other incredible and simply genius recipesHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

12 min
Nov 30, 2022
Bonus Stock Tips from Emily Ziemski (Play Me a Recipe)

It's time we take stock of whats in our fridge and make some soul-filling stock for the winter with Food52's food editor, Emily Ziemski on this bonus episode featuring our sister-show Play Me a RecipeStock is endlessly versatile so we're not following a specific recipe for this episode, but here are a few to get you started if you need that extra boost! Beef StockChicken StockAnd here are a couple super useful tools to help you make the best stock possible. Hestan Roasting PanFive Two Roasting PanSouper Cubes for Stock Storage

35 min
Nov 23, 2022Episode 90
A Pie Whisperer’s Top Thanksgiving Tips | Erin Jeanne McDowell

There're enough stressors around the holidays to let your dessert be one of them, so we sat down with Erin Jeanne McDowell to get some tips on ways to bring flawless pies to the table. Referenced in this episode Savory Baking CookbookClover RollsPâte BriséeDouble crust chicken pot pieGenius-Hunter Extra CreditErin Jean McDowell's Bake It Up A Notch Youtube channelErin Jean McDowell's InstagramOrder Kristen's newest book, Simply Genius Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

15 min
Nov 16, 2022Episode 89
Cuddle-Worthy Cookies with Rose Levy Beranbaum

Lemon Lumpies? Cuddle Cookies? It's rare to find treats who's names are as exciting as the confection themselves. Luckily on this episode we speak with Rose Levy Barenbaum, author of The Cookie Bible, about how she perfects her recipes and makes their names come to life.  Referenced in this episode The Cookie BibleSimply GeniusIce Cream BlissGenius-Hunter Extra CreditRose's website, Real Baking with RoseRose's Open-Faced Blueberry Pie (perfect for Thanksgiving)Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

16 min
Nov 9, 2022Episode 88
Cook, Eat, Repeat with Nigella Lawson

This episode, Kristen Miglore sits with the incomparable Nigella Lawson to discuss her latest cookbook Cook, Eat, Repeat.Referenced in this episode Cook, Eat, RepeatWhere to See Nigella LiveGenius-Hunter Extra CreditNigella's InstagramNigella Lawson's No-Bake Nutella CheesecakeNigella Lawson’s Chicken & Pea TraybakeHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

7 min
Nov 2, 2022
Anna Sulan Masing makes Sarawak White Chicken

Anna Sulan Masing, host of Whetstone Radio's Taste of Place podcast cooks her way through Mandy Yin's incredible Sarawak Chicken recipeRecipeMarinate 6 skinless chicken thighs, with the bone-in just with salt, leave for 1/2hour on the kitchen bench to get it to room temperatureBlitz up spice paste: 200g roughly chopped onion, 2 garlic cloves, 2.5cm of ginger root, 2 stalks of lemongrass also roughly choppedToast 1tsp of black peppercorns, and 1 tsp of white peppercorns - choose any good quality peppercorns. This is done on a very low heat, without oil until fragrant. Then, grind it into a fine powder ideally in a mortar & pestleIn a medium sized saucepan slowly get 3 tbsp of oil warm, then add in the pepper powder and the spice paste. Fry off until the oil splits - no longer than 10minsAdd in the chicken, 450g (1lb) of roughly chopped tomatoes, 300mls of water, 5 laksa leaves (or a bunch of mint) with stalks. Bring to boil then let simmer for 20min. Keep an eye on it and stirr at regular intervals.Add in 100mls of coconut milk, stir and cook for another 5minsServe with rice!Is there a recipe you'd like to hear us make? Tell us all about it at [email protected]!Lobby Time Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

25 min
Oct 26, 2022Episode 87
Vegetables, A Love Story | Hetty McKinnon

Every vegetable has infinite possibilities. Is it the main course, a side, a component, a snack? In Hetty McKinnon's upcoming book, Tenderheart, she explores not just how we can make the most out of the vegetables in our pantry but how using them can connect us to the people and the world around us.  Referenced in this episode Hetty's new book, Tenderheart pre-orderHetty's recent book, To Asia with Love Kristen's Simply Genius CookbookGenius-Hunter Extra CreditHetty's InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

13 min
Oct 19, 2022
Harper Fendler Makes a Penicillin Cocktails

This week we're sharing an episode of another Food52 podcast, Play Me a Recipe featuring bartender and writer Harper Fendler mixing a Penicillin, and tracing its origins to the famed Manhattan cocktail bar Milk & Honey. RecipeServes 12 ounces blended Scotch whisky (Famous Grouse)1 ounce fresh lemon juice1/2 ounce ginger syrup1/2 ounce honey syrup1/4 ounce Islay ScotchTumbler, chilledLemon peel and (optional) candied ginger, for garnishShake first 4 ingredients with ice.Fine strain into tumbler over large rock.Float Islay Scotch over top of drink.Garnish with lemon twist and candied ginger, if desired.Is there a recipe you'd like to hear us make? Tell us all about it at [email protected]!Lobby Time Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

22 min
Oct 12, 2022Episode 86
What it means to be First Generation | Frankie Gaw

Referenced in this episode First Generation: Recipes from My Taiwanese-American HomeFrankie's Website Frankie's Instagram Have a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

17 min
Oct 5, 2022
Revisiting The Most Clicked-On Thing in My Newsletter | Katherine Spiers

Referenced in this episode:Check out Katherine's podcast, Smart MouthThese are the cookiesGenius-Hunter Extra Credit:Oh and the mayo episodeFor more genius tips, tricks, or leads from Katherine, subscribe to Smart Mouth's accompanying newsletter

26 min
Sep 27, 2022Episode 85
Simply Genius Cookies with Tara O'Brady

Referenced in this episode Simply Genius CookbookTara O'Brady's Genius Chocolate Chip CookiesTara O'Brady on SubstackGenius-Hunter Extra CreditTara O'Brady's WebsiteTara O'Brady's InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

21 min
Sep 21, 2022Episode 84
Diving into Mi Cocina with Rick Martinez

Referenced in this episode Mi Cocina: CookbookSweet Heat: Rick's Video SeriesGenius-Hunter Extra CreditBorderline Salty: Rick's Podcast with Carla Lalli MusicHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

16 min
Sep 14, 2022
[BONUS] A Sloe Gin Fizz with Harper Fendler

On Play Me a Recipe, your favorite cooks will walk you through their most treasured recipes, offering all the insider tips, stories, and tricks you won't get from a written recipe—and you'll be right alongside them, every step of the way. Feel free to pause, jump back, or navigate the steps via the podcast chapters (if you're in Apple Podcasts, swipe up on the episode player page—the podcast chapters will be at the bottom).  If you're cooking along, here's the recipe we're making today. Go ahead and grab the ingredients below (Harper starts listing them at 04:30) before starting the episode.RecipeServes 4 to 62.5 oz Hayman's Sloe Gin1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice0.5 oz Rich Simple Syrup (2 parts sugar, 1 part water)Club SodaLemon PeelEgg White (optional)Chilled 7-8 oz tumblerNecessary toolsShaker TinsJiggerHawthorn StrainerFine StrainerCitrus JuicerReverse Dry Shake MethodAdd first 3 ingredients to shaker with ice, shake until tins are frosted Strain and dump ice, shake again Fine strain into chilled tumbler, top with 2-3 oz of soda Garnish with twist of lemon IF INCLUDING EGG WHITE (Traditional Dry Shake Method)Add first 3 ingredients and egg white to shaker, shake Add ice, shake again until shaker tins are cold to the touch Fine strain into chilled tumbler, top with 2-3 oz of soda Garnish with twist of lemon

12 min
Sep 7, 2022Episode 83
A Simply Genius Tomato Sauce in 5-ish Minutes

Referenced in this episode Pre-Order Simply Genius CookbookHeidi Swanson's Genius 5-Minute Tomato SauceHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

20 min
Aug 31, 2022Episode 82
Burning the Toast with Harry Sultan

Referenced in this episode Burnt Toast Podcast FeedFood52 Podcast NetworkHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions

23 min
Aug 17, 2022Episode 81
Everything about Cookbooks with Everything Cookbooks

Referenced in this episode Everything Cookbooks websiteEverything Cookbooks on Apple PodcastsPre-Order Simply GeniusGenius-Hunter Extra CreditMolly Steven's InstagramAndrea Nguyen's InstagramKate Leahy's InstagramKristin Donnelly's InstagramHave a genius recipe you'd like to share? Tell me all about it at [email protected] Music by The Cabinetmaker on Blue Dot Sessions