The Chopping Block Cooking Blog

Beyond Bordeaux: Saint-Émilion

A couple of years ago I wrote a general introduction to Bordeaux, it isn't the most interesting blog I've written for The Chopping Block, but it is one I remember the most. Bordeaux wines excite ...

Crossroads Diner at Virtue Restaurant: Humble Southern Heritage Fare in Chicago's Hyde Park

Crossroads Diner: At the Intersection of Hospitality & Community has finally made its way home to Chicago! The dining scene has more than plenty to satisfy my wanderlust cravings. There is no ...

10 Tips for Making Sauces: Part 1

Leave it to the French to assert that there are really only five sauces, the Mother Sauces. The idea is that the five Mother Sauces are base sauces, and by adding additional flavorings or modifying ...

This isn't your Childhood Salisbury Steak

A lot of foods evoke a certain level of nostalgia in me. Dishes that you had as a kid that maybe your mom or your grandmother made can transport you back to that time and place with just a simple ...

How to Make Marshmallows from Scratch

If you love marshmallows as much as my family does, then you'll definitely want to try this recipe. I have always wanted to try making homemade marshmallows, but have shied away because it seemed ...

The Best Gravy You’ve Ever Made

Turkey may be America’s most tolerated meat. Where people relish a thick juicy steak, savor a sweet rich pork chop, and crave the comfort of roast chicken, eating turkey is regarded with the ...

How to Tie a Stuffed Roast

The time of year for cooking large cuts of meat is upon us. We are not worried about warming up the house too much and as our schedules begin to fill up more having those leftovers comes in handy! ...

Why make a Sweet Cheesecake when you can make a Savory One?

If you love cheesecake like I do, you need to make this savory Mushroom Cheesecake Tart.

Get Cracking with these 15 Minute Holiday Crackers

I’m not going to lie, I love a good dip. For years I’ve been whipping up the classiest of condiments, the tastiest of toast toppers and the sexiest of spreads but I’ve got to admit, I’ve been ...

Holiday Weight Gain Prevention Tips

The holiday season is officially here. Home cooks are planning their Thanksgiving dinners, scheduling holiday parties and getting ready to bake cookies like fiends. I've already given you some ...