Smidgen

Latest Episodes:

3 New Sheet Pan Suppers Using Easy New Cooking Techniques Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

At Red Stick Spice Company, we love sheet pans. We teach sheet pan classes; we sell sheet pans. Most important: we use sheet pans all the time to make marvelous meals at home.

Anne Milneck (Chef, Smidgen host, sheet pan cheerleader and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) says we can't really call sheet pan suppers a trend anymore—simply because sheet pan cooking is so ubiquitous and helpful to the home cook. In this episode, Anne shares new recipes and new techniques that you can start using right away to make your sheet pan cooking better than ever.

Whether you are a sheet pan fan or if you've ever wanted to try out some sheet pan suppers to make your weeknight meal planning faster and easier, this episode has something for every cook.

Recipes and Products Mentioned on the Episode

- See the line of USA Pans at Red Stick Spice Company: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/usa-pan-sheet-pans

- Here's the scoop cookie sheet Anne talked about and the adorable eighth sheet pan Catherine was irrationally enchanted by

- Read the Milk Street article Anne mentioned, hilariously titled, How to Make a Sheet Pan Meal that Won't Bore You to Tears: https://www.177milkstreet.com/2024/01/how-to-make-a-sheet-pan-meal-that-wont-bore-you-to-tears

- Anne has a new blog post detailing the new recipes and the new techniques for sheet pan cooking. Read it here:

- Garam Masala is a must for India-inspired cooking: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/garam-masala

- Want more Smidgen sheet pan supper inspo? The very first sheet pan episode is here; 4 Sheet Pan Suppers You Haven't Tried. Also: slab grilled cheese fans, rejoice: listen to this episode here.

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Tell us about you getting back into your Instant Pot! Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Instant Pot Glow Up: Fall Back in Love with Your Instant Pot Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

Did we fall out of love with the Instant Pot? How long has it been since you've used your Instant Pot? Anne Milneck (Chef, Smidgen host, INSTANT POT USER and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) thinks it's time to revisit your Instant Pot and give this multi-purpose tool a glow up. The Instant Pot is so good at what it does… with a few considerations (that Anne goes over in this episode. Spoiler alert: the Instant Pot can be your meal prep secret weapon. More in the episode.)

Three brand new recipes are featured in this episode for you to try in your Instant Pot. Anne brings one trending recipe; one rice recipe; one meal-prep friendly bean dish—all ready to be made in your Instant Pot. This episode is going to help you fall back in love with your Instant Pot AND provide you some outstanding meals, too.

Recipes and Products Mentioned on the Episode

- Everyone's talking about them: Birria Tacos—made in the Instant Pot: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/instant-pot-birria-tacos/

- Basmati Jeweled Rice featuring savory harissa: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/instant-pot-basmati-pilaf/

- Emma's Refried Pinto Beans from the Instant Pot: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/instant-pot-refried-beans/

- Read the Red Stick Spice Company blog post on re-falling in love with your Instant Pot: https://blog.redstickspice.com/instant-pot-glow-up/

- Here's the Atlantic article that gave Anne some insight with what's happened to the Instant Pot business: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2023/06/instant-pot-bankrupt-private-equity/674414/

- Are you trying some meats in your Instant Pot? Try Red Stick Spice Company's Cuban spice rub: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/cuban-spice-rub

- Anne made Basmati Jeweled Rice with the harissa paste from New York Shuk: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/new-york-shuk-harissa-pastes

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

What is the Best Food to Serve at a Graduation Party? May 23, 2024

Show notes

The month of May is jammed packed! If you are going to multiple graduation parties Anne Milneck (Chef, Smidgen host, and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) feels ya! Anne knows the parties can pile up—you may even be hosting multiple parties through this grad season. What is a busy home cook to do?

Enter the nearly foolproof graduation party menu from Red Stick Spice Company. Anne has put together a practical selection of dishes that allows you to make ahead most of the party menu, allowing you to go right from the ceremony to the festivities. You are going to love all the "feed a crowd" dishes Anne suggests, allowing you to celebrate your graduates and throw a fabulous party.

Recipes and Products Mentioned on the Episode

· - Read Anne's new blog post all about hosting a graduation party: https://blog.redstickspice.com/host-a-grad-party/

· - Anne admits the "pulled meat" section maybe could have a snappier name, but one thing you can't argue with: Big Daddy's Smokehouse Blend is the right spice for chicken or beef: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/big-daddys-smokehouse-blend

· - Wow your crowd with a platter of grilled corn elote: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/elote/

· - We are once again calling upon you to make some Ina recipes, including farro salad; overnight mac and cheese; THE perfect chocolate cake

· - It's peak strawberry season, so grad party or not, why not make a gorgeous and delicious strawberry shortcake? https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/strawberry-shortcakes-with-rooibos-infused-berries/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Congrats to the grads! Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

What is the Best Mother's Day Breakfast I Can Make? May 09, 2024

Show notes

Make a beautiful, manageable breakfast for Mom! Anne Milneck (Chef, MOM, and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) has a wonderful menu that you or family members (ESPECIALLY teens or tweens) can make to celebrate Mother's Day. We all cherish memories of children earnestly preparing bowls of cereal… but if you're ready for a slightly more advanced Mother's Day breakfast menu, this episode for you.

Hearty pancakes (or waffles); berries with an Earl Grey Crème simple syrup; crispy candied bacon; egg bites and more make this an enviable breakfast plan that everyone is going to love. Happy Mother's Day!

Recipes and Products Mentioned on the Episode

· Read Anne's new blog post all about the Mother's Day breakfast menu here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/mothers-day-breakfast-in-bed/

· Earl Grey Crème is one of Red Stick Spice Company's most popular teas—perfect to make with a simple syrup: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/earl-grey-creme

· Did you know Red Stick Spice Company has a Brunch spice blend? https://www.redstickspice.com/products/brunch-spice-blend

· Make cruffins! https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/easy-cardamom-cruffins/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Don't forget to make Overnight Mac & Cheese and drop some Lemon Bars off for Anne to try (or at the very least, take pics and tag @redstickspice.) Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

For the Home Cook: What Ina Garten Recipes Should I Try First? Apr 25, 2024

Show notes

Attention, Barefoot Contessa fans—Anne Milneck (Chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) is back as an Ina Garten superfan on this episode of Smidgen to share some solid recipes, perfect for the home cook to try out. (Please note: this episode has several homework assignments, including making Overnight Mac & Cheese and Lemon Bars.)

Home cooks: If you are looking for approachable yet refined recipes that will please your family and guests alike this episode will get you on the right track. Host Anne's passion for these recipes will inspire for a week's worth of family meals—at least!

Recipes and Products Mentioned on the Episode

· Read Anne's new blog post all about Ina Garten here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/more-ina-garten-inspired-recipes/

· Take the class! Inspired by Barefoot Contessa (one of Red Stick Spice Company's MOST POPULAR classes!): https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/cooking-classes/products/barefoot-contessa-inspired

· Try Sel Gris or Fleur de Sel to brighten your dishes

· Interested in rimming a glass for a sip? Explore Red Stick Spice Company's infused sugars here: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/infused-sugars

· Ina's Overnight Mac & Cheese—a must-try: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/inas-overnight-mac-cheese/

· A take on Charlie Bird's Farro Salad (yummy and a chance to try farro!): https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/farro-salad-with-herbes-de-provence/

· Anne shares the secret to CRISPY chicken in this Orzo and Crispy Chicken dish: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/crispy-chicken-cutlets-with-lemony-orzo-feta/

· Are you intrigued? Lemon Bars with a salty shortbread to balance the sweet: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/lemon-bars-with-salted-shortbread-crust/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Indulge in Elegance: How to Create a Perfect Afternoon Tea Setting in Your Own Home Apr 11, 2024

Show notes

People love enjoying an Afternoon Tea. While it is less of a regular event in the United States, many people, including Anne Milneck—host of Smidgen, and chef/owner of Red Stick Spice Company—have fond memories of special tea outings.

Did you know you can enjoy a special Afternoon Tea at home with family or friends? On this episode of Smidgen, Anne shares tips on how to pick the teas to serve your guests; how to put together a savory course, a scone course, and a sweet course (and recipes OF COURSE to accompany your tea.)

FOR MOTHER'S DAY: Enjoy a Mother's Day Afternoon Tea at Red Stick Spice Co. Register Here: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/mothers-day-afternoon-tea

Read the blog post on hosting an Afternoon Tea: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipes-for-a-3-course-afternoon-tea/

Links for Teas to Consider for an Afternoon Tea

· Earl Grey Creme: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/earl-grey-creme-tea

· Earl Grey Lavender: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/earl-grey-lavender-tea

· English Breakfast: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/english-breakfast-tea

· Rooibos: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/rooibos-tea

· Vanilla Rooibos: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/vanilla-rooibos-tea

· Biscotti Rooibos: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/biscotti-rooibos-tea

· Chamomile: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/chamomile-tea

· Traditional Masala Chai: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/traditional-masala-chai-tea

· Herbal Chai: https://www.redstickspice.com/collections/tea-teaware/products/herbal-chai-tea

Dishes to Prepare for Your Afternoon Tea

· Parsnip Soup: https://blog.redstickspice.com/parsnip-soup-recipe/

· Hummus: https://blog.redstickspice.com/how-to-make-the-best-homemade-hummus/

· Cucumber Sandwiches: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/cucumber-sandwiches/

· Spanakopita (Spinach Phyllo Triangles): https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/spanakopita-triangles/

· North African Chicken Hand Pies, B'stilla (pronounced "past-ee-ya"): https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/moroccan-bstilla-with-harissa-mayo/

· Scones: https://blog.redstickspice.com/the-best-scone-recipe/

· Lemon Curd (store bought is fine)

· Clotted Cream (store bought is fine)

· Strawberry Sauce: https://blog.redstickspice.com/strawberry-sauce-recipe/

· Blueberry Ginger Compote: https://blog.redstickspice.com/blueberry-ginger-compote-recipe/

· Shortbread Cookies: Check out Anne's shortbread roundup here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/roundup-shortbread/

· Mole Chocolate Cookies: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/mole-spiced-cookies/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Pinkies up! Please share pics from your Afternoon Teas and tag Red Stick Spice Co. Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

When Do I Use Fresh Herbs and When Do I Use Dried Herbs? Mar 28, 2024

Show notes

If you have questions about using dried herbs or fresh herbs in your home cooking, this informative Smidgen episode is for you. Anne Milneck—host of Smidgen, and chef/owner of Red Stick Spice Company—answers the top two questions she gets asked about dried vs. fresh herbs (can you guess what they are?) plus Anne spotlights a bounty of recipes that will give you a chance to experience some dishes where fresh herbs get to shine and some dishes where dried herbs excel. Trust us—you are going to want to try every recipe she shares (links below!)

The ultimate herb resource-- here's Anne's blog post on dried herbs vs. fresh herbs: https://blog.redstickspice.com/understanding-spices-dried-vs-fresh-herbs/

Where can I get dried herbs?

· Herbes de Provence Blend: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/herbes-de-provence-blend

· Sunny Herb Blend: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/sunny-herb-blend

· Greek Oregano: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/greek-oregano

· Mexican Oregano: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/mexican-oregano

· Tarragon: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/tarragon

Herb superb recipes to try at home

· Compound Butter: https://blog.redstickspice.com/compound-butter/

· Anne's VERY favorite, Cassoulet: https://blog.redstickspice.com/cassoulet-recipe/

· Big batch Enchilada Sauce: https://blog.redstickspice.com/homemade-enchilada-sauce-recipe/

· Fall in love with Sunny Herb Vinaigrette: https://blog.redstickspice.com/sunny-herb-vinaigrette/

· Chermoula Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/chermoula-recipe/

· Chimichurri Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/chimichurri-recipe/

· Mango Salsa: https://blog.redstickspice.com/mango-salsa-recipe/

· Orecchiette with Wilted Greens: https://blog.redstickspice.com/orecchiette-with-wilted-greens/

· Tarragon Chicken Salad: https://blog.redstickspice.com/tarragon-chicken-salad-recipe/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these recipes? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Tag Red Stick Spice Company in your parsley or cilantro bouquet posts! Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Easter Brunch ideas that will have you and your guests rejoicing Mar 14, 2024

Show notes

Easter is here! If you are planning on hosting a brunch (or attending an Easter brunch) Anne Milneck—host of Smidgen, and chef/owner of Red Stick Spice Company—has a brunch menu that will have you rejoicing. Yes, we talk about brunch a lot—but brunch is flexible and fun, a perfect time to try out some new, fresh spring flavors and prepare your favorites.

What is a good Easter Brunch menu?

- All in one spot: read Anne's blog post about Easter brunch (complete with recipe links): https://blog.redstickspice.com/9-springtime-easter-brunch-recipes/

- Anne mentioned the yummy butternut squash hummus: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/butternut-squash-hummus/ (tip: make a classic hummus batch, too)

- A hearty salad, Ina Garten's Charlie Bird Farro Salad is a great way to try farro and a surefire make-ahead. https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/farro-salad-with-herbes-de-provence/

- Spring comes to life with Lemon and Dill Roasted Potatoes (yum!)

- If you're having a classic spiral ham, Anne has a sauce you can make to take things up to the next level: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/glazed-spiral-ham/

- Egg bites are perfect for brunch (you're going to love them! Easy to make and satisfying): https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/egg-bites-with-andouille-spinach/

- Leaning in on Spring in South Louisiana—enjoy Crawfish Pesto Pasta: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/crawfish-pesto-pasta/

- Finish with a little sweet treat—Strawberry Spoon Cake: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/strawberry-spoon-cake/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these resolutions? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Rejoice! Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Are Sweet Potatoes and Yams the Same Thing? Feb 29, 2024

Show notes

Sweet Potato love is a real thing. But have you ever wondered what the difference is between yams and sweet potatoes? Well, our host Anne Milneck (chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) dives into the history of yams—or should we say "yams"—in the United States and reveals all, including how Louisiana lost out on being the Yam (or Sweet Potato) capitol of the world and if there is such a thing as sweet potato fudge. After "nerding out" on the history, Anne gives a set of sweet potato recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

This settles it! Anne's blog post on Sweet potatoes vs. Yams: https://blog.redstickspice.com/sweet-potato-or-yam-roundup/

Sweet Potato Recipes to Try

- There are an amazing array of sweet potato recipes on the Red Stick Spice Company website. Start your sweet potato journey here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/?s=sweet+potato

- Anne mentioned the incomparable Holly Clegg. Find out more about Holly and her legacy here: https://thehealthycookingblog.com/about/

- Did your ears perk up at the mention of the coffee BBQ rub? Order it here: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/coffee-bbq-rub

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who is a sweet potato lover? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

7 Lenten Meals to Cook for Your Family (That Aren't Just Fish) Feb 15, 2024

Show notes

The Lenten Season changes the menu for some families as they observe the 40-day period before Easter. Traditionally, this has meant a lot of fish meals (especially on Fridays.) But what if you want to observe lent without leaning too heavily on fish? This new episode of Smidgen—hosted by Anne Milneck, owner of Red Stick Spice Company is here to help.

What are the best meals to serve during Lent?

Read Anne's blog post on the Lenten meals here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/more-lenten-meals-that-arent-fish/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these resolutions? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.

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