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.

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.

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.

You can make a lovely and romantic dinner for Valentine’s Day at home! Anne Milneck of  Red Stick Spice Company has you covered with an elegant, multi-course meal that will impress—and that you can actually successfully make—that is sure to make your evening in something special.

What is a good menu for home cooked Valentine’s dinner?

- Read Anne’s blog post on Valentine’s, complete with menu and optional variations. Click here to read Anne’s blog post.

- Did someone say vanilla balsamic? Shop for this unique vinegar, featured in the menu: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/vanilla-balsamic-vinegar

- Anne mentioned that slow roasted salmon is all over the internet. Here’s Red Stick Spice Company’s spin—Chipotle Slow Roasted Salmon: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/chipotle-slow-roasted-salmon/

- 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.

 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 food trends are home cooks going to be seeing everywhere in 2024, and maybe more importantly, what are some of the recipes that will help you explore the best this new year has to offer? Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company Anne Milneck loves food trends. So when she saw Southern Living’s list of pertinent food trends for 2024, she knew she wanted to talk about them on the show—and bring some exciting recipes from the Red Stick Spice Company teaching kitchen to help our customers bring these trends into their homes right away.  

This week’s episode is inspired by Southern Living’s article: Food Trends You'll See Everywhere In 2024, According To Southern Living Editors

What are the best food trends for 2024?

- Read Anne’s blog post on the big food trends for 2024, including recipes you can try and get a feel for the trend: https://blog.redstickspice.com/2024-recipe-trends/

- MUST-TRY! Anne says this maple tahini tea latte is sure to please: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/maple-tahini-tea-latte/

- Have you tried Soom tahini yet? Select any of the wonderful Soom products, available at Red Stick Spice Company, INCLUDING dark chocolate sea salt (yum!): https://www.redstickspice.com/search?type=product&q=soom*

- Whip up a batch of tahini blossoms with chocolate kisses: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/tahini-blossom-cookies-with-chocolate-kisses/

- 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.

 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.

Hello, 2024! Are you ready to cook up a storm this year? Do you want to love your kitchen and your home cooking even more this year? On this episode of Smidgen, Anne Milneck—chef and proprietor of Red Stick Spice Company—has some practical resolutions that you can easily incorporate to your routines and are you ready for this? Are resolutions you can actually stick to.

What are cooking resolutions can I actually stick to?

Meal prep one thing each week (just one!); try a new recipe from a new cookbook every month; cook something in a wok; eat down the freezer strategically; explore fridge-friendly salads that can sub in as sides. Anne walks through each of these tips and explains how each idea can make life easier as you cook meals this year.

- Read Anne’s blog post with 5 cooking resolutions that will actually change and improve your home cooking: https://blog.redstickspice.com/five-cooking-resolutions/

- Did you hear Anne give a shout-out to Country Captain Chicken? Check out this vintage recipe that now is a Teaching Kitchen favorite. Yum! https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/country-captain-chicken/

- Can’t get enough of Kung Pao Chicken. A MUST-TRY: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/kung-pao-chicken/

- BTW the class which brought Kung Pao Chicken to Anne’s attention originated is Better Than Take-Out. You can take this class, too! More info here: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/better-than-takeout

- Ready to wok? Matt from the Teaching Kitchen likes this one, Helen Chen Carbon Steel Wok: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/helen-chen-carbon-steel-wok

- Attention duck hunters and duck hunters’ loved ones: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/duck-flatbread-with-shallot-and-figs/

- 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.

 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.

The holidays and Christmas season is here! Are you or a favorite home cook feeling stressed? Less than jolly? Anne Milneck, chef, owner of Red Stick Spice Company, and host of Smidgen has some help for you. Lots of outlets churn out “helpful hints for the holidays” lists that… let’s face it… are a little less than robust. We need real help this year, and Anne delivers on this episode of Smidgen.

What are the best tips to make holiday cooking easier?

- Read Anne’s blog post with 12 Holiday Tips that are impactful; real-world tested; not your usual run-of-the-mill tips. Link on the Red Stick Spice Co website: https://blog.redstickspice.com/12-helpful-holiday-tips/

- Did you hear Anne mention Lily’s Apple Strudel? No better reason to have some puff pastry on hand. Recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/apple-strudel/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these REAL holiday kitchen tips? 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.

We’ve all said it: we don’t want more “stuff” and we want to keep our Holiday budget intact. But we also don’t want to go empty handed to our friend’s house this season. Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company has a delicious solution on this episode of Smidgen. Have fun and a joyful kitchen as you make these 5 wonderful gifts from your kitchen to share with the people you love.

What are the best homemade Christmas gifts?

From scratch granola, shortbread, sumptuous dessert sauces, savory quick pickles, and comforting quick breads are recommended gifts—Anne wrote a blog post highlighting each of these most-wanted hostess gifts. Read the blog post here.

- Bonus! Anne has some ideas about gifts to give to your favorite home cook, too!

• Make your own Chile Crisp Kit, for the chili lover in your life: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/chile-crisp-kit
• Sourdough starter from Magnolia Hill-- what is better than homemade bread? https://www.redstickspice.com/products/home-on-magnolia-hill-sourdough-starter
• Cocktail makers and mixologists are going to love Elderberry Creamed Honey from Cockeyed Farms: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/cockeyed-farms-16oz-american-elderberry-creamed-honey
• Snackers will love candied jalapenos from Grinning Jupiter: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/candied-jalapenos

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with someone who might appreciate knowing these gifts from the kitchen? 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.

Oh my! What are we going to do with all this food?? If you are looking upon your Thanksgiving Leftovers with a little bit of dread, Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company reveals her skill as a meal makeover artist in this episode of Smidgen. Now, keep in mind: we are pro-leftover on Smidgen; this is not about simply eating down the Thanksgiving meal. Rather, this episode is all about fully transformed meals, using food from Thanksgiving. Each of the recipes Anne discusses are great dishes on their own—the fact that they help making a dent in the leftovers crowding the fridge: a bonus.

Read Anne's blog post on leftovers here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/leftover-love/

How do you deal with leftovers on Thanksgiving?

You don’t have to face your post-Thanksgiving fridge with dread. Here are 5 great recipes to makeover your Thanksgiving leftovers. 

- A South Louisiana staple: Turkey & Sausage Gumbo

- Have you ever said, “Will it waffle?” then this is for you: Cheesy Waffled Mashed Potatoes

- Ooh la la ooey gooey goodness: Turkey & Brie Panini with Cranberry Sauce

- Nothing like a good sweet potato. Try these Sweet Potato Pancakes—yum!

- Cranberry lovers unite! Rosemary Thumbprint Cookies with Cranberry Sauce

-… and if you heard Anne mention the Bourbon Vanilla Cranberry Sauce—recipe is here.  

- Producer note: This stuffing is amazing! Do yourself a favor and give it a try: Ciabatta & Sausage Stuffing

- Y’all interested in a make-ahead roux? Anne has you covered: Make-Ahead Roux

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with a fellow Thanksgiving leftover 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Spatchcock your Thanksgiving turkey for gorgeous crispy skin and juicy turkey meat. Smidgen host Anne Milneck of Red Stick Spice Company details on this episode why everyone should consider taking a note out of Kenji Lopez-Alt’s book (or podcast appearance) and spatchcocking this year’s Thanksgiving turkey. What do you get?

•           CRISPY, crispy golden lovely delicious skin
•          Plump, juicy turkey (NO dry bird—you’re not relying on all the great Thanksgiving sides to carry the meal. Enjoy the bird, too!)
•          Relatively quick cooking time (a 14-16 lbs in 90 minutes, OH YEAH!)

Anne explains why this year is a perfect time to try this technique and have wow results for your family and other Thanksgiving guests.

What’s the best way to cook turkey this Thanksgiving?

There’s a step-by-step guide on the Red Stick Spice Company website showing how to spatchcock your Thanksgiving turkey here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/why-we-are-spatchcocking-our-turkey/

Anne recommends several spice blends to try on your turkey when spatchcocking and a variety of salts:

- This is the time of year to try Gobble Gobble Blend: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/gobble-gobble-blend

- Italian Herb Blend: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/italian-seasoning

- When you dry brine, use our Dry Brine Blend: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/dry-brine

- Customer favorite Butcher Salt is also a great choice: https://www.redstickspice.com/products/sea-salts-products-butcher-salt

 - Want to share Smidgen podcast with a fellow Thanksgiving cook? Please do! Easy link to share: https://pod.link/1465606357

- Anne recommends the countdown to Thanksgiving method, covered previously on Smidgen. Want to know how to prepare? Listen to these short, technique-packed episodes: 5 Days before T-Day; 4 days; 3 days, 2 days; 1 day until Thanksgiving. What do you think of this sequence? 

- 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.

Boo! Halloween is a fun and special time for Smidgen host Anne Milneck and Red Stick Spice Company. Anne likes to go big with costumes, decorations, and Halloween festivities! You can too—even at this date, you can pull together a delightful and delicious Halloween celebration for friends and neighbors. On this episode, 7 Halloween recipes that are easy and can feed a crowd. Spooky root beer, sheet pan nachos, pumpkin soup, mummy-wrapped baked brie, sloppy joes, ogre-green matcha popcorn, witch’s fingers cookies are sure to amaze your favorite fiends (er, or friends.)

Read Anne's blog post-- 7 Halloween Recipes for a Block Party: https://blog.redstickspice.com/7-recipes-for-a-halloween-block-party/

What is a good Halloween party menu?

- Spooky Halloween root beer: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/spooky-halloween-rootbeer/

- Matcha popcorn: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/matcha-popcorn/

- Feed-a-crowd smoky sloppy joes: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/smoky-sloppy-joes/

- Listen to the episode to hear how to make mummy wrapped brie; witches’ fingers cookies; and check out Anne’s blog post about Halloween treats.

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with a fellow trick or treater? 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Doesn’t everyone love Fall? A reprieve from the heat, leaves change color, root veggies show up at the Farmer’s market, and soup sounds lovely for dinner. Some of us wait all year for the flavors of Autumn. Anne Milneck, host of the Smidgen podcast and owner of Red Stick Spice Company has 5 essential recipes for Fall that prove the season is much more than a bunch of PSL talk.

What are some good Fall recipes?

- Get all the recipes Anne shares in this episode in one blog post: https://blog.redstickspice.com/5-essential-fall-recipes/

- Curious about the cardamom simple syrup mentioned? (Mmmm—cardamom whipped cream.) See the recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/cardamom-simple-syrup/

- Want to share Smidgen podcast with a friend? Here’s an easy link: 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Everyone is re-discovering their Dutch ovens. Make crusty bread, roast a chicken, make a beautiful stew—you can do all of this in a Dutch oven, and more! On this episode of Smidgen, Anne Milneck of Red Stick Spice Company gives a useful lesson about what sets Dutch ovens apart from other cookware (hint: you’ll be inspecting the lid of your favorite cooker after this show.) Plus, Anne shares 7 Dutch oven-ready recipes, each one sounding better than the next.

What do you cook in a Dutch oven?

- Anne has a great blog post that collects all the recipes featured on this episode into one place. Read the blog post here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/7-dutch-oven-recipes/

- Don’t have a Dutch oven or want to give a Dutch oven as a gift this year? Check out Staub at Red Stick Spice Co. View the line here: https://www.redstickspice.com/search?type=product&q=staub*

- From the most popular Staub 6 quart or the Staub rice pot Anne shared, Red Stick Spice has the just the Dutch oven you want. (Producer’s note: look at this one shaped like a tomato!!!)

- Cute alert: Staub also has custom knobs in the shape of piggies, cows, roosters, or a fishy for your Dutch oven, available at Red Stick Spice. Custom Staub animal knobs here.

- Try Roasted Garlic Dutch Oven Bread—recipe here.

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

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.

Smoothie lovers unite! If you enjoy a smoothie to get your macros or extra nutrition or add some protein to your diet—OR just because they taste good, this is the Smidgen episode for you. Anne Milneck, host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company provides smoothie inspiration with 5 smoothies you make and enjoy today. Yum!

What should you put in a smoothie?

- Here’s a great blog post from the Red Stick Spice Company website with all the smoothies Anne has for you: ROUND UP: 5 NUTRITION-PACKED SMOOTHIES – Red Stick Spice Recipes

- Try the Geaux Green daily blend to stir into your favorite smoothie

- Everyone’s gone reishi—try Red Stick Spice Company’s Vanilla Bean Reishi Daily Blend

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Getting back into the swing of the school year can be a little tough. Everybody’s schedule changes, how much you are driving around changes, mealtimes change. To help you ensure dinnertime is a pleasant, delicious, and homecooked experience, Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company has 5 quick and easy dinners you can use to help the whole family adjust to the school year.

What are quick and easy dinners I can make tonight?

- Anne has a great blog post that collects all the recipes featured on this episode into one place. Read the blog post here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/5-under-30-minute-meals/

- Don’t forget: there are TONS of quick meal ideas on the Red Stick Spice Company blog. Do a search here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

If you or someone in your family is going plant-based with their eating, getting some great vegan recipes into your mealtime lineup can be a lifesaver. Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company Anne Milneck’s own daughter went vegan and Anne explains some expert tips for how to navigate the culinary landscape that comes with this type of eating. After you learn all of Anne’s tips, it’s on to five essential vegan recipes that you’re going to love to eat—whether you are a vegan or not!

How do I start cooking vegan food?

- Anne has a great blog post that collects all these recipes into one place. Read the blog post here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/5-essential-vegan-recipes/

- Not on the list above, but in the episode, try butternut squash hummus. Yum!

- Anne recommends Smoked Olive Oil to do a lot of heavy lifting for getting South Louisianan flavors into vegan dishes.

- Burger lovers, rejoice! Try Emma's Black Bean Burger-- recipe here. 

- Here’s some resources Anne recommends when expanding your vegan cooking:

• Minimalist Baker: https://minimalistbaker.com/
• Oh She Glows: https://ohsheglows.com/
• Ottolenghi cook books help a lot: https://ottolenghi.co.uk/shop/books
• Eat Like You Give a ****: https://www.badmanners.com/book/official-cookbook
• Veganomicon: https://www.amazon.com/Veganomicon-10th-Anniversary-Ultimate-Cookbook/dp/0738218995
• Mark Bittman VB6: https://markbittman.com/book-covers-descriptions/sf79lr36et2g7eiao10t0znewd20wn
• Six Seasons—a must have: https://www.joshuamcfadden.com/sixseasons

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

It’s too dang hot, y’all.  If the thought of cooking in the kitchen has you crying right now, Anne Milneck, chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company shares 8 cooldown recipes to help you take the temp down just a bit. Make the most of produce that’s available now; get some sumptuous sips; indulge in some frozen sweet treats that are sure to make summertime memories.

What recipes can I make to cooldown and beat the heat?

- Are you intrigued by ice box cakes and pies? Make some space in the freezer for these delights:

              - Refreshing Blueberry Lemon Ginger Ice Box Cake is one to try

              - Chocolate lovers rejoice for Red Stick Spice Co’s Chocolate Ice Box Pie

- Legendary Lime Cracker Ice Box Pie from Kenji Lopez-Alt (lime and Ritz crackers?? Tell us more!)

- House favorite Eggplant Parm Burgers get a shout-out on this episode (hint: make these! Thank us later.)

- Peachy keen! Make Peach Salad with Pepper Jelly Vinaigrette

- The requisite Red Stick Spice Company quick pickled item: Sweet Quick Pickled Cucumbers

- Afternoon nibble idea: Strawberry Bruschetta with Strawberry Balsamic

- Corn on the cob gets an upgrade with Elote! Make it for your BBQ: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/elote/

- Morning, noon, or night: Squash & Corn Fritters

- Talk about childhood memories: No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream

- Frozen Cantaloupe Agua Fresca and Watermelon Bellinis are two drinks you can sip year round but are especially appreciated now

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

-Read Anne’s blog post with all her cooldown recipes here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/8-summertime-cool-down-dishes-and-sips/

 

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 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.

Tapas—or small plates—are a signature of Mediterranean and Spanish cooking; Tapas give you a wonderful variety of dishes that give you lots of things to try and experience in a single meal. Tapas are also a phenomenal way to throw an unforgettable party. On this episode of Smidgen, Anne Milneck, chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company shares 7 incredible tapas recipes to help you throw an amazing tapas party, complete with some expert tips.

How can I throw a tapas party?

Here are some of the recipes you should try for your upcoming tapas party.

- Anne couldn’t say enough about the Spiced Roasted Olives.

- Wow your crowd with Shrimp and Sofrito.

- Pull together a perfect charcuterie board or salumi (meat) board. Anne shares all the tips on this blog post: https://blog.redstickspice.com/6-tips-for-the-perfect-cheese-board/

- Watch guests go gaga over these Rosemary Chipotle Roasted Nuts (a winner from Ina Garten.)

- Romesco sauce is perfect for dipping. Get the recipe here.

- Read Anne’s blog post all about how to host a successful tapas party: https://blog.redstickspice.com/7-recipes-for-a-tapas-party/

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Honey is more than a sweetener in a jar, hiding in your pantry. On this episode of Smidgen, host Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company—gives us four delicious ways to add honey to our cooking. This episode is to help celebrate pollinator week, a celebration of the buzzing beneficials that help flowers bloom and food grow. (Be sure to follow Red Stick Spice Company on Facebook and Instagram so you can see how Anne is honoring pollinators this week!)

What ways can honey be used in cooking?

- Try a honey simple syrup for cocktails or mocktails for an elegant spin on your favorite sips. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/honey-simple-syrup/

- Honey is a great contrast to herbs and the slight tartness of ricotta. Try Whipped Herbed Ricotta with Honeycomb. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/whipped-herbed-ricotta-with-honeycomb/

- Do you like sweet with spice? Try Nashville Hot Honey, a great drizzle or dipping sauce; perfect for chicken. Made with Red Stick Spice Co’s Nashville Hot Chicken Blend. Oooh, honey!

- Finish your meal with Honey Espresso Sugar Cookies. Listed with no further explanation needed.

Mentioned on the episode:

- Look at these beautiful bee hives from Flow. Their collection can be seen here: https://www.honeyflow.com/collections/flow-hives (also they have a beginner bee keeper guide, too!)

- Anne has a blog post about cooking with honey, complete with links to recipes. Read the post: https://blog.redstickspice.com/4-ways-to-cook-with-honey/

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Who doesn’t love brunch? Whether you are spending time with friends (nibbling and sipping) or preparing dishes you rarely get to enjoy (like quiche or breakfast rolls) brunch is a delightful meal. And the best part? You don’t have to go out for brunch! As soon as this weekend, you can make a memorable brunch that will wow.

On this episode of Smidgen, host Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company—shares five brunch ideas (that actually turns into six then seven brunch recipes— we couldn’t help ourselves! Brunch is just too good! You’re going to love all these brunch items!)

How do you do a brunch at home?

- Anne likes to serve two egg recipes at brunch—giving your guests a couple of options. Great options include shakshuka and quiche (like the sweet potato quiche featured here.)

- Amazing idea: a bagel board for brunch. See how to do a bagel board the Red Stick Spice way here.

- Get all the brunch suggestions Anne has here on the Red Stick Spice Company blog: 5 Fab Brunch Recipes. But wait, there’s more!

- Read about the Red Stick Spice Brunch Roundup. Yee haw! 

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Ina Garten is a cooking icon. Her show, The Barefoot Contessa, has been inspiring home cooks for just over twenty years. Her cookbooks are staples for many, and her knowledge of comfort food cooking; simple but elegant entertaining; and her attention to lovely décor details make her a go-to influencer. It’s no wonder that so many love her and her approach to cooking.

On this episode of Smidgen, host Anne Milneck—chef and owner of Red Stick Spice Company—shares four lessons you can learn from Ina and how you can bring a little more of The Barefoot Contessa way into your home right away.

What can you learn from the Barefoot Contessa?

- Read Anne’s blog post about The Barefoot Contessa on the Red Stick Spice Co. website

- Try some vinaigrette recipes like…

·       Zahtar Vinaigrette

·       Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

·       Dirty Martini Vinaigrette

- Make this week: Cauliflower Toast (and then report back to Anne.) Recipe here.

- Browse the selection of young olive oils offered by Red Stick Spice Co. Shop the collection here.

- 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, Google Podcasts, 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.

Click here to learn more about Culinary Madrid, the cooking (and eating!) travel experience with Anne Milneck and Red Stick Spice Company: Culinary Madrid

You can learn to cook the flavors of Spain this Fall in Madrid, Spain. Join Anne and Lili for a six-day food, wine, and cultural experience. Where did this tour come from, how did Anne and Lili get the idea? On this episode of Smidgen, you’ll learn the story of how this experience came together, as well as an overview of each day. Anne shares how Insider’s Travel crafted the trip and what you can expect each day.

If you want to learn to prepare tapas and paella in their home country—Spain—you’re going to love this experience. Anne shares how Chef Gabriela Llamas plans the day’s menu based on what is available fresh at the market. You will immerse yourself in this method of cooking directly with Chef Gabriela.

Finally, Anne explains how the trip is designed to allow a wonderful balance of planned activities and self-directed alone time, too. If you’ve been considering joining Anne for Culinary Madrid, we’re sure this “virtual tour” episode will get you excited for the adventure. Only a few days remain to register for Culinary Madrid!

Mentioned on the show:

·       Did you miss any of our Spain focused Smidgen episodes? Tapas, and paella, and Tarta de Santiago—oh my! Listen to all those episodes here: Smidgen podcast.

·        Get excited: Try one of our favorite paella recipes—Easy weeknight paella.  

·       How can I learn more about Culinary Madrid—the six-day cooking and food tour of Madrid, Spain—and how can I sign up? Click here for Culinary Madrid.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 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.

Click here to learn more about Culinary Madrid, the cooking (and eating!) travel experience with Anne Milneck and Red Stick Spice Company: Culinary Madrid

Anne (Red Stick Spice Company owner and host of Smidgen) makes this cake for nearly every family gathering, and you can, too. The Tarta de Santiago has something for everyone according to Anne. Santiago translates to St. James, and this cake, named for this “greater” Saint, traditionally bears a stencil of his sword on top. (Make a simple stencil of James’ sword and dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar. Adorable!)

A flavorful, beautiful crumbed cake—light but with a chew; almond and citrus playing off each other—this cake is the perfect finish to a dinner of the complex flavors found in paella.  Tarta de Santiago is easy to make and is naturally gluten free. If you love simple but elegant baked goods, this one is for you.

Mentioned on the show:

·       Bake it: Try Tarta de Santiago at home.

·       Go the distance and finish the cake with a powdered sugar stencil of St. James’ sword. Make a stencil of St. James’ sword with this image. (Via Wikipedia. There’s even a picture of the tarta on that page!)

·       Want an extra punch of almond flavor? Red Stick Spice Co. almond extract is the answer.

·       Try one of our favorite paella recipes—Easy weeknight paella.  

·       How can I learn more about Culinary Madrid—the six day cooking and food tour of Madrid, Spain—and how can I sign up? Click here for Culinary Madrid.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 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.

 

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.

Click here to learn more about Culinary Madrid, the cooking (and eating!) travel experience with Anne Milneck and Red Stick Spice Company: Culinary Madrid

Get to know sofrito—a dynamic base that gives a start to Spanish paella and many other Mediterranean dishes that can be made with ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen right now. Anne Milneck—owner of Red Stick Spice Company and the host of Smidgen loves sofrito after learning it from Jim, the instructor for Red Stick Spice’s ultra-popular paella class. After listening to this episode of Smidgen, not only will you be prepared to make sofrito tonight, you’ll want to try Shrimp with Sofrito and try cooking paella at home. (But did you know there’s something better than cooking paella at home? Listen in to learn more.)

Mentioned on the show:

·       Step one: make Sofrito. Recipe here. Step one and a half: fall in love.

·       Two birds, one stone: tapas and sofrito in one swoop—make Shrimp with Sofrito (recipe here.)

·       Try one of our favorite paella recipes—Easy weeknight paella.  

·       How can I learn more about Culinary Madrid—the six day cooking and food tour of Madrid, Spain—and how can I sign up? Click here for Culinary Madrid.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 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.

Click here to learn more about Culinary Madrid, the cooking (and eating!) travel experience with Anne Milneck and Red Stick Spice Company: Culinary Madrid

Tapas—delicious small plates—are a wonderful way to experience a variety of flavors, textures, temperatures, without being overwhelmed at mealtime. Tapas are a great way to try out many different dishes at once and a terrific way to entertain. Tapas are closely associated with Spain (and with good reason!) On this episode of Smidgen, Anne Milneck (host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company) shares some tapas love and suggests some “flavor bombs” you can try at home to get familiar with tapas.  

Mentioned on the show:

·       Try Papas Bravas with Smoky Aioli to get started with tapas in your own home cooking.

·       Red Stick Spice Company offers a Hot Smoked Paprika that is sure to satisfy—perfect for tapas.

·       Psst! We’ll talk about this is a few weeks here on Smidgen, but you can get a sneak peek right now on planning a perfect tapas party here.

·       How can I learn more about Culinary Madrid—the six day cooking and food tour of Madrid, Spain—and how can I sign up? Click here for Culinary Madrid. 

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 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.

Thanksgiving is tomorrow! It’s Wednesday my dudes. All the prep work will be oh so appreciated tomorrow, but today is about most folks’ favorite part of the Thanksgiving meal: the side dishes. Our tasks today, 1 day until Thanksgiving, is to work on the Thanksgiving sides: Ciabatta Sausage Stuffing and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Thanksgiving Side Dishes

• Do you call it dressing or stuffing? Either way you are going to adore this Ciabatta and Sausage Stuffing. Make it today and reheat it tomorrow on Thanksgiving. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/ciabatta-sausage-stuffing/
• The mashed potatoes can be made tomorrow, but the prep can start today. Get ready for some Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/roasted-garlic-mashed-potatoes/
• Roasted Garlic Olive Oil on roasted garlic? Yes, yes, and yes!
• Red Stick Spice Company also offers a Roasted Garlic Avocado Oil you may want to check out, too.

More from Red Stick Spice Company

• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• We are thankful for you, the listeners of Smidgen.
• HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Two days to go! It’s Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Time to bake a sumptuous Pumpkin Cheesecake. This two-layer cheesecake is as gorgeous as it is beautiful.  And we don’t want to hear anything about “cracked” cheesecakes—that’s what the Cardamom Infused Whipped Cream is for.

Pies to Make for Thanksgiving

• It’s easy to get Thanksgiving dessert together when you start ahead. Today make Pumpkin Cheesecake with Cardamom Infused Whipped Cream. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/pumpkin-cheesecake-pie-with-cardamom-whipped-cream/
• Remember! You already made the crust ahead of time on Day 5! Woo hoo—so easy. Flaky Pie Crust recipe here if you are catching up.
• Does your family need more than one pie option? (Relatable.) Try this divine Chinese 5 Spice Pecan Pie.

It’s almost Thanksgiving! So close! It’s going to be a good one.

More from Red Stick Spice Company

• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• We are thankful for you, the listeners of Smidgen.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Three days until Thanksgiving, this is a biggie. Monday: Brine the Bird and whip up a delicious batch of Make Ahead Gravy.

How to Brine a Thanksgiving Turkey

• Anne’s favorite way to brine a Thanksgiving turkey is to dry brine the bird 3 days before Thanksgiving and store it open in the fridge. Use Red Stick Spice Company Dry Brine. Shop Dry Brine Blend here.
• If you want to learn more about other brining methods, listen to our recent Smidgen episode, Brine Time Anytime.
• Red Stick Spice also offers a Turkey Brine Kit. Shop here.

How to Make Thanksgiving Gravy

• Straight from the Red Stick Spice Company Teaching Kitchen is this recipe for Make Ahead Gravy. It yields a whopping 8 cups of gravy that your family is going to love. Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/make-ahead-turkey-gravy/
• DO NOT toss the drippings from the day-of Thanksgiving turkey! Listen to the episode to learn what Anne does with those precious juices.

More from Red Stick Spice Company

• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• We are thankful for you, the listeners of Smidgen.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Happy 4 days until Thanksgiving. It’s Sunday. Today: Shake and store a vinaigrette; cook your cranberry sauce; infuse a cardamom simple syrup. Hint: you’ll use the simple syrup for whipped cream later on with an amazing pie we’re going to make in a few days.

Cranberry Sauce for Thanksgiving

• Make Ginger Pear Cranberry Sauce. You’ll love how the ginger compliments the Fall pear and cranberries. It’s a hit! Recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/ginger-pear-cranberry-sauce/
• Please note: there will not be can ridges on this sauce. We know that’s a disappointment to some of y’all. We are confident this fresh sauce will make up for it.

Vinaigrette for Thanksgiving

• Include this wonderful Pomegranate Salad with Carrots and Blue Cheese in your Thanksgiving menu. Make the salad ON Thanksgiving; make the dressing today.
• This is a shake-n-store vinaigrette: pour all the ingredients in a jar; shake with vigor; pop in the fridge; DONE.
• Vinaigrette recipe here with the salad: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/pomegranate-salad-with-carrots-blue-cheese/

More from Red Stick Spice Company

• Make a Cardamom Infused Simple Syrup—great for cocktails, but you’ll also use it to sweeten a whipped cream later this week. Try it! It uses whole cardamom pods—a little different than what you might be used to. Recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/cardamom-simple-syrup/
• Cardamom is featured on this recent episode of Smidgen—listen here: 5 Spices to Add to Your Spice Rack.
• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• We are thankful for you, the listeners of Smidgen.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Happy 5 days until Thanksgiving. It’s Saturday. Today: Prep pie crust and cookie dough. (Have you not heard about fresh cookies on Thanksgiving? It’s a tradition at Anne’s house. With the recipes ahead, you’re going to want start this tradition for your family!)

Pie Crust for Thanksgiving

• Use your food processor to make this Flaky Pie Crust recipe (one batch at a time!) The secret ingredient is vodka. See the recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/flaky-pie-crust/

Cookies for Thanksgiving

• Take advantage of all the beautiful dried cherries we see this time of year and pick your favorite Red Stick Spice infused sugar to make slice-n-bake Dark Chocolate Cherry cookies. Recipe here: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/dark-chocolate-cherry-slice-bake-cookies/
• Crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside—yes please! Try Salted White Chocolate Oatmeal Recipe: https://blog.redstickspice.com/recipe/salted-white-chocolate-oatmeal-cookies/
• Anne likes a bit of Fleur de Sel salt with cookies. Shop here.
• Interested in some other cookies?
  • Vanilla Bean Sables are a winner for Thanksgiving
  • Read an entire shortbread roundup here from the Red Stick Spice Company blog

More from Red Stick Spice Company

• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• We are thankful for you, the listeners of Smidgen.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

On Smidgen, we love to bring you new insight on your favorites. Adding new spices to your standbys can give new life and new perspectives to dishes you prepare all the time. Like tacos? Try them with new chiles for a whole new taste sensation. Like hot chocolate? Mix in this spice for a whole new sipping experience. Want more like this? In this season finale episode, Smidgen host Anne Milneck will give you 5 spices to explore plus dishes to try out these new spices. There’s nothing more fun than trying new flavors with Anne as your guide.

Mentioned on the show:

• Can you say delicious? Get to know Pasilla Negro Chiles with Pasilla Pulled Chicken Tacos.  
• Now you know! Mexican oregano is not the same as Mediterranean oregano!
• As the weather cools, try Timut Hot Chocolate using the intriguing Timut Peppercorns.
• This is cardamom’s season to shine. Why not try a little something different with whole cardamom pods? A perfect application is a Cardamom Simple Syrup. Cheers!
• Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Red Stick Spice Company has you covered! Look for blog posts; social media posts; podcast episodes and MORE counting down five days to help you get ready for Thanksgiving. You’ll get a short podcast episode each day to help you prep—no rushed, crazed, hair-on-fire holidays this year! Stay tuned.
• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

You can’t get more down to basics than olive oil. Don’t let the familiarity of olive oil prevent you from finding new and intriguing ways to use (and enjoy!) this kitchen must-have. Besides all the glorious regions that produce a variety of olive oils, there is an array of flavored olive oils to sample and savor (Smidgen host Anne Milneck shares some suggestions for you to try—available from Red Stick Spice Company.)

If you are ready to get some new eyes for olive oil, dive into this episode of Smidgen. Plus—you’ll get a dinner idea you can use this week and a dessert idea (a dessert CHALLENGE in fact.) Don’t miss the secret bonus way to use olive oil (get out your cocktail shaker. You read that right: olive oil in a cocktail. Who knew?!) An especially delicious episode of Smidgen.

Mentioned on the show:

• Make salmon this week using the “lazy simmer” method using olive oil. Crispy Skin Salmon recipe here.
• Ooh la la, try Herbes de Provence extra virgin olive oil from Red Stick Spice Company.
• Anne recommends mushroom lovers try Porcini Extra Virgin Olive Oil. A treat for sauteing and as a finishing drizzle.
• Garlic gets a lot of love, but consider Red Stick Spice’s Shallot Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Allium amazement awaits you.
• Bake up some Citrus Olive Oil Mini Loaf Cakes. Try the very popular Meyer Lemon Olive Oil; get hyped for Blood Orange Avocado Oil—both from Red Stick Spice Company.
• Do you pledge to take the olive oil on ice cream challenge? DON’T RUN AWAY YET. Read up about it here (you’ll thank us later.)
• Anne wrote a blog post about these three ways to use olive oil. Read it here.
• Bonus way to use olive oil: Try an Olive Oil Gin Sour – credit to Julianna McIntosh; recipe found on the FeedFeed. So tasty!
• How do I get the Red Stick Spice Company newsletter with recipes and cooking ideas? Sign up for our newsletter here.
• Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, includingFacebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

We love sheet pans! Sheet pan suppers, sheet pans themselves—if it can be made on a sheet pan, we are here for it. Anne Milneck—host of Smidgen, chef/owner of Red Stick Spice Company, and unabashed sheet pan enthusiast—has four new* recipes for home cooks to try and enjoy. (*New? Maybe not. Anne explains how most sheet pan recipes are actually a combination of techniques. In any case, each recipe is fun, flavorful, sets you up for success, and can solve your dinner quandaries this week!)

Mentioned on the show:

- Get the recipes here:

• School Cafeteria Pizza
• Sheet Pan Ratatouille
• Sheet Pan Nachos
• Sheet Pan Italian Sandwiches

- Read the blog post Anne wrote about these sheet pan suppers here.

- Want to shop USA Pan? See the variety of USA Pan pans (including muffin tins; cake rounds; square pans, etc) offered via Red Stick Spice Company here. See all the sizes of sheet pans available from USA Pan at Red Stick Spice here. (Bonus: Here’s the gasp-worthy USA Pan cookie sheet and the most adorable mini sheet pan you’ve ever seen.)

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

- Listen to Anne’s conversation with sheet pan cookbook author Molly Gilbert here. Smidgen Season 1, Episode 2 (!) While you’re at it, fall in love with slab grilled cheese here.

- Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

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.

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.

The original food influencer? None other than Julia Child. Between hosting one of the most long-running cooking TV shows (really, we wouldn’t have food TV without her) to bringing French cooking to the mainstream American kitchen, Julia Child made an impact.

Julia Child’s influence is back in a big way with HBO’s new show Julia, reinvigorating fan’s love for her and introducing a new generation to Julia Child’s work.

Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company Anne Milneck brings us three lessons everyone can take from Julia Child. If you want to bring some flair to your dinners or want to dive into cooking with wine—this is the Smidgen episode for you.

Please note: You will most likely clamor to purchase a blow torch after listening. You’ve been advised.

Mentioned on the show:

- This episode is inspired by this blog post, penned by Anne—take a read to get even more Julia Child!

- Get fancy with Suprêmes de Volaille aux Champignons—recipe here. (Special thanks to Kati and Guy for pronouncing this dish on the episode.)

- Make Julia Child’s Vinaigrette—learn the Julia oil/acid ratio for salad success here . Shake with great vigor!

- Are you ready to try Mini Baked Alaskas? Fall in love with your new favorite chocolate cake and learn a manageable way to create beautiful, show-stopping desserts for your next dinner party. (A perfect chance to use your brand-new blow torch.) See the gorgeous pictures and try the recipe at home.

- Want more? Red Stick Spice Company hosts the class: What Would Julia Do? Get the details here.

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

- Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Intuitive cook, Improv cook, Recipe cook—which type are you? What are each of these home cook types like, and how can knowing which type of home cook you are help you be a better cook? In the over 300 cooking classes taught at Red Stick Spice Co., (and YES—Anne’s counted them!) the instructors and staff have noticed some patterns… some styles… some types, if you will. Now, this is no criticism, in fact Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Co. Anne Milneck thinks knowing your type is actually a boon. There’s something to be learned from each type, and knowing your type can improve your cooking skills. By the end of the episode, you’ll know what kind of cook you are and have specific tips and recipes to try to understand who you are in the kitchen even better.

Mentioned on the show:

- This episode is inspired by this blog post, penned by Anne.  LINKS to all the recipes mentioned on the podcast can be found here. Be sure to click over and see the amazing pictures of Timmie Callais modeling each cook type in the Red Stick Spice Co. Teaching Kitchen.

- Test out your cooking style while making Sheet Pan Pizza Chicken with Pancetta, Mozzarella, and Spicy Tomatoes.  Yum! Recipe here.

- Intrigued by the Roasted Root Burger Anne was enticingly describing on the episode? It’s a featured dish in the Cooking with a Cardiologist class. Learn more here. (We love you Dr. Gadi!)

- Did you say Folded TikTok Breakfast Tortilla? Make your own—recipe here.

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

- Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Your pantry is your secret weapon. In this season premiere episode of Smidgen, Anne Milneck shares 5 new pantry staples she is loving right now—each item is a gem you should discover and is chock full of meal inspiration. From a rich (adorably packaged) mayo to a protein-packed rice to a roasty toasty Ginger Garlic Toasted Sesame Oil (made just for Red Stick Spice Company!) plus others—you’re going to love hearing about each of these items and how they can make your mealtimes even better.

Included in the episode: Anne walks you through Spicy Beef Pan Fried Dumplings, featuring Ginger Garlic Toasted Sesame Oil—delicious lil’ dumplings everyone can make.

Mentioned on the show:

- This episode is inspired by this blog post, penned by Anne.  LINKS to all the recipes mentioned on the podcast can be found here. 

- Is there a cuter mayo than Kewpie mayo? (Spoiler alert: no.) Red Stick Spice Co offers a Sushi Workshop. Check for dates and details here.

- Other products: Ginger Garlic Toasted Sesame Oil (hello roasty toasty); Soom Dark Chocolate Tahini (excuse us as get a spoon); Parish rice (welcome back, rice!); Red Boat Fish Salt (putting the U in UMAMI!)

- Anne gave a shout-out to Weeknight Dirty Rice. Find the recipe here. 

- If you loved the Spicy Beef Pan Fried Dumplings (and we’re sure you will), consider signing up for the Lil’ Dumplings class. Learn to make all kinds of pot stickers and other yummy dumplings. Details here.

- Want to learn how to fold dumplings? We like this video from Wei's Red House Kitchen. 

- Bonus: Click here for a special dumpling recipe pack from Anne, complete with some how-to pictures for folding dumplings. 

- Did you hear Anne say Red Boat Salt Buttermilk Fried Chicken? Oh yes: get the recipe here.

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

- Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Tea is tasted through an activity called cupping, where tea is sipped at various temperatures and is assessed for color, aroma, and finally taste. One aspect of experiencing tea in this way is having a particular vocabulary of vivid words to describe the way the tea looks, smells, and its flavor. That vocabulary comes from daily practice—which means lots and lots of trying tea.

On this episode of Smidgen, host Anne Milneck (a self-described perpetual student of tea) is joined by wine professional Lauren Luquet (Luquet Wine Co.) and coffee professional Dominick Blanda (City Roots Coffee Bar) to tase milk oolong, courtesy of  SoGo Tea Bar. Lauren and Dominick have that vocabulary for wine and coffee—how can their perspective help us appreciate tea more, and get excited for the adventure that can be found in a lovely cup of tea?

SoGo Tea Bar is located just inside of Red Stick Spice Company in Mid City, Baton Rouge.  SoGo is a must-visit stop in Baton Rouge, and the knowledgeable SoGo baristas are ready to get you to a tea you’ll love.  

Mentioned on the show:

- Enjoy tea the SoGo way! In Baton Rouge: look over the SoGo menu here and pop in for a sip. Outside of Baton Rouge: Check out the selection of tea available and place your order to be shipped right to your door.

- Anne leads a Tea 101 class! Learn more here. 

- Follow SoGo Tea Bar on Instagram.

- Lauren Luquet is a wine professional, specializing in American-based wineries. Learn more: Luquet Wine Co. Follow Lauren on Instagram.

- Dominick Blanda is a partner, coffee roaster/enthusiast, and jack-of-all-trades at City Roots Coffee Bar in Baton Rouge. Visit in person when in Baton Rouge or order online here. Follow City Roots Coffee Bar on Facebook and Instagram.

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

- Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

A simple dredging of melted butter, a beautiful brick red spice blend, and an absolutely scorching hot cast iron skillet are all you need to make tempting blackened fish at home. (You’ll also probably need to temporarily disable your home smoke alarm, but we’ll get to that shortly.)

The question comes up: is the blackening the seasoning or the cooking technique? There’s no one better to answer that question than Chef Frank Brigtsen, who with his wife Marna, owns Brigtsen’s restaurant in the Riverbend neighborhood in Uptown New Orleans. Chef Brigtsen has personally blackened over 60,000 fish (!) and even enjoys blackening a variety of fish, steaks, and even veggies when he’s eating at home.

In addition to having his own restaurant in New Orleans, Chef Brigtsen apprenticed at Commander’s Palace and was the first night chef at K-Paul’s, working with Chef Paul Prudhomme. In this episode, you’ll not only hear the story of the very first blackened redfish to be ever cooked at K-Paul’s by Paul Prudhomme, you’ll learn enough of how to blacken fish to try this style of cooking at home yourself.

Mentioned on the show:

- In the New Orleans area, be sure to visit Brigsten’s in Riverbend. You can find Brigtsen’s on Facebook and Chef Frank Brigtsen on Instagram.

- What can be blackened? Can I blacken steak, shrimp, or salmon?

- What seasonings should I use when I try to blacken fish?

- Did Chef Paul Prudhomme inspire the overfishing of redfish in the Gulf of Mexico?

- Anne used Red Stick Spice Company Cajun Blackening Spice Blend for her Blackened Gulf Fish recipe.

- DON’T FORGET TO REACTIVATE YOUR HOME SMOKE DETECTOR!

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

- Oven questions? Listen back to Anne’s episode about managing heat and getting to know your oven to help you bake: Smidgen episode, The Right (Kitchen) Tool for the Job.

Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Baking gluten-free is a bear, even for experienced bakers. A lot of the usual rules don’t apply and gluten-free baking has tons of methods and practices that bakers need to know before they can achieve “GF” baking success. We get this episode’s question from Connie, who knows her way around an oven; she simply had disaster after disaster trying to bake gluten-free. To help Connie out, Smidgen host (and infamous non-baker) Anne Milneck brings on Kelly Courson of CeliacChicks.com to get into some of the ways bakers can make beautiful and delicious baked goods, and to share some of the factors that go into successful gluten-free baking.

If you want to make delectable goodies for your friends or family that forgo gluten, in this episode you’ll learn about several key ingredients every GF bakers need to know; you’ll have cookbooks and recipes that are kitchen-tested; you’ll be connected to mixes that are specially formulated for the home cook.

To top off all this valuable information, Anne heads into the Red Stick Spice Company teaching kitchen—with some help from friend of the shop Kayla and bakes a classic birthday cake, complete with rainbow sprinkles.

Mentioned on the show:

- If you know someone with celiac disease, Kelly’s website CeliacChicks.com is a must. Follow Kelly on Instagram.

- Kelly recommends you try Cup4Cup products—flours, mixes, recipes. See the Cup4Cup website here.

- Some cookbooks to try: Culinary Institute of America Gluten-Free Baking is one Kelly likes; Anne got the birthday cake recipe from Cannelle et Vanille by Aran Goyoaga.

- Were you tempted by talk of the almond cake on Smidgen? Here’s the recipe on the Red Stick Spice Company website.

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

- Oven questions? Listen back to Anne’s episode about managing heat and getting to know your oven to help you bake: Smidgen episode, The Right (Kitchen) Tool for the Job.

Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

What do we bring? When there’s a happy occasion like a new baby or a solemn passing like losing a loved one the time-honored tradition of bringing food to our friends and family is a tangible way to show our care and concern. However, there are lots of food handling practices that come into play when we’re cooking for others. Our inspiration question comes from Terry (after experiencing the digital magazine Pathway) and to help properly answer, Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company Anne Milneck  brings on Dr. Wenqing “Wennie” Xu to discuss food handling practices that every home cook can learn and use right away.

After an information packed (and fun!) session with Wennie, Anne pulls on friend and professional organizer Sara Landry West of South Coast Organizers to deal with a current trend—do we bring and leave a dish when bringing someone food? Do we use disposables? How does a professional organizer take on this topic—to pyrex or not to pyrex, that is the question (and Smidgen has the answer.)

Finally, Anne gets to the kitchen to make cassoulet (classic, comforting, delicious) and a 15 minute/5 ingredient salted butterscotch sauce that can top ice cream for a refreshing, sumptuous treat—both would be welcome to let someone know you’re thinking of them.

Mentioned on the show:

- Dr. Wennie has a informative and easy to access video series called Food Safety Bites, created with the LSU AgCenter

- Looking for a new hobby? Both Anne and Wennie collect food thermometers!  Check out the cool ThermoPop instant read thermometer (available in a gorgeous rainbow of colors.) Want readings fast? Thermapen One gives you the temp of your proteins in one second. Wow! Get ultra-fancy with wi-fi and Bluetooth® enabled Signals™ BBQ Alarm thermometer.

- Yum—Fleur de Sel boasts mineral flavors and gives a nice crunch. A delightful salt to use in the butterscotch sauce, and a unique addition to many dishes.

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

Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Salt is essential! Whether it’s to enhance flavors or get necessary minerals into our diets, salt cannot be divorced from cooking. But should salt and pepper—often thought of going together—be split up? We’re getting salty on this episode of Smidgen, with Anne heading off to the salt mine (so to speak.) JQ Dickenson Salt-Works has been producing salt in West Virginia (you read that right) for over 200 years. Nancy Bruns is a chef and along with her brother Lewis Payne are continuing the family tradition of harvesting salt in Malden, West Virginia. Nancy joins Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company Anne Milneck to discuss how salt is made in a land locked area, and what kinds of flavors home cooks can expect to experience when trying different unrefined salts. 

Then to put some of this salty knowledge into action, Anne heads to the kitchen to make Rosemary Focaccia with Finishing Salt. 

Mentioned on the show:

- The JQ Dickenson Salt-Works website is a wealth of information and an attractive showcase of their offerings. Visit JQDSalt.com to learn more. Want to know how salt is made? Interested in how a modern salt-works can harvest salt in a sustainable way? Watch the JQ Dickenson Salt-Works videos here.  

- What is unrefined salt? 

- Make your own batch of No-Knead Rosemary Focaccia. Take Anne’s tip and try different salts on top of this delicious bread to get a sense of the variety of qualities and textures that can be found in various salts. 

- Start your salty exploration by peeking at Red Stick Spice Company’s selection of salts on our website. Red Stick Spice Company has dozen of salts to choose from. 

- Should salt and pepper get a divorce? 

- Throwback to Rosemary Gill talking spices (and revealing the origins of the salt/pepper divorce question) on Smidgen, Season 2. Listen to the episode here. 

- What’s the problem with recipes saying salt and pepper to taste at the end of the recipe?

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

Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. 

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

We’re taking on listener questions this season of Smidgen, and on this episode it’s all about BRINE. Wet brine? Dry brine? What proteins can be brined? Our question comes from Caroline and to answer, Red Stick Spice Company store owner and Smidgen host Anne Milneck brings on Rhonda and Danny Titus of Road Toad Smokin’ BBQ. Rhonda—known as the “Chicken Queen” is an award-winning griller and she shares her champion brining secrets on Smidgen.

By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to wet brine a variety of proteins (plus get some extra tips for spatchcocking chicken.) You’ll know about early salting and dry brining and you’re going to want to try them all!

Mentioned on the show:

- Try your hand at Maple Brined Pork Loin using delicious Garlic Maple Rub

- Anne recommends savory Lamb Blend that (surprise!) can be used on lots of proteins besides lamb

- How does Rhonda wet brine her award-winning chicken? What goes into her brine?

- How long do I wet brine chicken? (Timing is critical! The difference between super moist and spongey is TIME.)

- What are some tips for making spatchcock chicken easier?

- How do I incorporate spices into my brining? Whare are some spice suggestions?

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

- Want to learn more about competitive barbecuing? Rhonda and Danny compete with Barbecue Competitors Alliance (BCABBQ.org)—see upcoming events here: BCA BBQ Upcoming Events

- My mouth is watering—can you tell me more about the Zuni Café Chicken? Read the blog post.

We hope this episode inspires you to try brining—both wet and dry—as a way to reinvent some of your favorite dishes. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

How do you keep pizza dough from springing back when you’re making pizza at home? We get our question from Mary, student of the Pizza Masterclass at Red Stick Spice Company. Mary was trying to stretch out her dough and it would not cooperate, instead the dough wanted to stay in a ball. Smidgen host Anne Milneck brings on pizza expert Cara Peterson of Go Eat Concepts and Rocca Pizzeria in Baton Rouge to talk all things pizza making at home. (Cara also happens to be the instructor of the Pizza Masterclass at Red Stick Spice.)

This episode is going to inspire you to try new toppings and new techniques for pizza at home. We can’t guarantee that your pizza will be a perfect circle (surprise—it doesn’t have to be!) but we know you’ll be a better pizza chef after listening to this episode.

Mentioned on the show:

- Make Cara’s fresh, from scratch pizza dough and try your hand at Neapolitan Pizza

- What is proofing and how many proofing stages does pizza dough go through?

- When should I start my dough if I want pizza on Friday?

- If I don’t want to start pizza dough from scratch, what options do I have?

- What are some toppings I haven’t considered for pizza at home?

- I don’t have a hearth or woodburning oven. How can my normal conventional oven make great pizza?

- THIS SETTLES IT: Does pineapple belong on pizza?

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

If this episode doesn’t inspire you to throw a pizza party, we don’t know what will. We look forward to seeing the homemade circles (or ovals) you create to make your own homemade pizzas. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the award-winning podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

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.

Discover Pathway: A Culinary Journal, Anne’s tribute to South Louisiana. You can also download Pathway as a PDF. In this episode, Anne walks us through Hot & Crispy Des Allemands Catfish Sandwich—you can see all the amazing recipes of Pathway here.

Hurricane Ida made landfall on August 29, 2021, cutting a path of destruction across part of South Louisiana. La Place, Louisiana was particularly hard hit, and La Place happens to be the hometown of Smidgen host and owner of Red Stick Spice Company, Anne Milneck.

From that ruin, Anne responded by creating a beautiful tribute, Pathway: A Culinary Journal. One part recipe collection, one part guidebook, Pathway contains gorgeous pictures, enticing recipes, and a special invitation to visit these places that were most profoundly impacted by Ida.

Join us on this episode of Smidgen to explore Pathway through the stories and recipes of this special region of Louisiana.  

Mentioned on the show:

- Anne walks us through the delicious preparation of a Hot & Crispy Des Allemands Catfish Sandwich. After listening, view the recipe for yourself here.

- Smidgen, Season 4 is a geaux! We need to hear from you—literally! Email audio messages of your cooking conundrums to Anne and we’ll pick select questions to be answered by Anne in our upcoming season. Send audio of your questions to info@redstickspice.com and then listen to Season 4 to hear if your questions was chosen!

- Do you know who got news of Pathway first? Our newsletter subscribers get the first peek at what we’re cooking up at Red Stick Spice Company. Sign up for our newsletter here.

We hope you loved learning more about South Louisiana and are intrigued to make your own visit down bayou soon. Don’t forget to email audio of your cooking questions to Anne. Follow Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

The very first interview on the very first episode of Smidgen was with Galen Iverstine of Iverstine Farms Butcher. Galen is back on this Season 3 finale episode of Smidgen to talk about what impact the last year had on his small business; what he learned as a rancher from the pandemic; and what customers are shopping for now at the meat counter.

Galen and Anne Milneck, host of Smidgen and owner of Red Stick Spice Co. discuss the realities of shopping local—is “shop local” just a popular slogan or does it have real results for a community?

Galen and Anne both had supply chain concerns when the pandemic lockdowns first were announced. If you’ve never really thought about how food gets to your local food provider, this part of the conversation will be enlightening and informative (really—if you’re thinking, “Uh, supply chain??” these two small business owners will give you new insights.)

Finally, Anne uses one of her favorite items from Galen’s shop—the Iverstine chorizo—to make Cast Iron Chorizo Queso as she walks us through the recipe. Not too picante, but plenty flavorful, and mucho cheesy, Cast Iron Chorizo Queso is your next crowd pleaser or the perfect filling for tacos.

Mentioned on the show:

- ¡Que rico! Watch Anne prepare Cast Iron Chorizo Queso on Facebook Live. You can find the complete recipe over on the Red Stick Spice Co. blog.

- Yes! Chili is a powder, but Chili Powder Blend is… well, a blend! Try any of the Red Stick Spice Co. chili varieties—from pleasantly warm to whoo-my-oh-my hot!

- Anne is a big fan of the Butcher Bundles available at Iverstine’s. Galen mentioned the bundles briefly—take a peek and see if a Butcher Bundle is right for you.

- Galen referenced a Freakonomics podcast episode about the supply chain that he thought was particularly good. Listen here.

- Are you in the Greater Baton Rouge area (or do you plan to be?) Attend one of the Red Stick Spice Co. farm tours. One of the stops is Iverstine Farm. Learn more about our Farm, Food & Cooking Tour.

- We are so excited for our C’est Si Bon subscription boxes! Get the goodness of Red Stick Spice Co. each month with a C’est Si Bon subscription—each box contains a curated tea in addition to a full size spice and a local product. Makes an amazing gift. C’est Si Bon!

Listen to the episode for a Red Stick Spice Company discount code, special for you, our Smidgen listener.

We loved bringing you this season of Smidgen. What would you like to hear about on a future episode? Did you have a favorite of Season 3? Let us know! Hit us up on any of the Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

When you walk into Red Stick Spice Co. looking for tea, the staff will ask you, “Caffeine or no caffeine?” Your answer will set a course for your sipping future. Last week on Smidgen was all about tea from Camelia Sinensis. This episode of Smidgen is the no caffeine side of things—herbals and botanicals.

Host Anne Milneck walks us through the leaves, flowers, bushes, roots, and other delights that make up herbal teas. The “rules” of herbal tea are different (in that there really aren’t any rules… for the most part.) You get lots of flavors with herbal tea, but one of the main reason folks opt for herbals is for wellness properties. Anne highlights two herbals in particular that are noted for their attributes—meet kudzu root (yes, the invasive plant which also happens to be the hero of Hangover tea) and learn more about anti-oxidant rich rooibos (and finally feel confident about how to pronounce the name of this rich, red tea.)

To close, Anne offers a “sipping segment” featuring Namaste tea—perfect for yogis after a deep yoga practice or anyone who wants a bit of restoration. Anne selected this tea to prepare since it has layers of aromas followed by flavors and colors, topped off by benefits for you to experience.

Mentioned on the show:

- Wow—did you hear some of the teas Anne mentioned? Try Fais Do Do (made with chamomile and rooibos) or Biscotti tea (beautiful cornflower bring color and flavor.) Get some replenishment with Rooibos Renewal.

- Wellness is a property, but it’s also a tea. Sip Wellness and enjoy! If you really need to unwind, give Chill tea a try.

- See all tea selections offered by Red Stick Spice Co. on the website. From single variety to blends to botanicals, we are sure to have a tea you will love.

- Anne mentioned that lots of customers like rooibos as an alternate to coffee. (Producer Catherine is now hooked on Vanilla Rooibos, a tea she tried after this episode.)

- Did you miss it? Catch last week’s Camelia Sinensis episode to get your dose of black, white, and green tea.

- This gorgeous tea is what Anne would serve at a luncheon. Get French Lemon Ginger tea and fall in love for yourself!

- We are so excited for our C’est Si Bon subscription boxes! Get the goodness of Red Stick Spice Co. each month with a C’est Si Bon subscription—each box contains a curated tea in addition to a full size spice and a local product. Makes an amazing gift. C’est Si Bon!

Listen to the episode for a Red Stick Spice Company discount code, special for you, our Smidgen listener.

Did this episode get you thinking about herbals? Ready to try a blend? Let us know! Hit us up on any of the Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.

Watch the leaves dance about in the water, allow the aroma to change and develop, maybe gently raise and dunk the infuser in your cup… and in a few minutes, take a sip of something rich and complex. It’s tea—delicious, flavorful joy in a cup. Red Stick Spice Co. is a spice shop, yes, but it’s also a purveyor of tea. Anne Milneck, host of Smidgen, is a tea sommelier and certified tea lover. All of the skills that make Anne passionate about blending spices translate to the world of tea (and what a world it is!) In this first of two tea episodes, Anne talks about tea from Camelia Sinesis—the tea plant that produces black, green, and white tea.

In this episode you’ll learn everything you want to know about the most common varieties of tea; equipment to brew a great cup; how to brew; how to appreciate the flavors evoked by tea (and how that differs from flavored tea—which are also delicious and wonderful.) Anne teaches a bit about caffeine and bitterness: two factors that are important to understand when considering tea (Anne even walks producer Catherine through a test to learn more about bitter receptors. You’ll want to try this yourself!)

To close, Anne offers a “sipping segment,” introducing listeners to The Big Fig—a great tea blend that combines fig, cinnamon, and green tea. Anne selected this tea as a fragrant and savory introduction for the person who wants the benefits of green tea, but might not yet be familiar with the concept of “pleasantly bitter.” (A phrase you will learn and love from this episode.)

Mentioned on the show:

- Intrigued by some of the teas you heard about on the episode? Try The Big Fig or Razz-ma-tazz or even indulge in a dessert tea like Chocolate Covered Strawberry tea. Want more? We’ve got you covered…….

- See all tea selections offered by Red Stick Spice Co. on the website. From single variety to blends to botanicals, we are sure to have a tea you will love.

- Did Anne sell you on a tea infuser? What about a glass press for tea? Explore the teaware  at Red Stick Spice Co. so you can pick just the right pot, infuser, or cup for you to enjoy your sipping.

- Reminder: next Smidgen episode is about botanical and herbal teas.

- Are you in the greater Baton Rouge area? Come visit our shop and look forward to the Barista-led tea bar that will open inside our store soon!

- Did your ears perk up at the mention of a tea class, led by Anne? Red Stick Spice Co. offers a variety of classes—even some online classes (we’re talking to you, worldwide Smidgen listeners!) Check the calendar and find a Red Stick Spice Co. class for you.

- We are so excited for our C’est Si Bon subscription boxes! Get the goodness of Red Stick Spice Co. each month with a C’est Si Bon subscription—each box contains a curated tea in addition to a full size spice and a local product. Makes an amazing gift. C’est Si Bon!

Listen to the episode for a Red Stick Spice Company discount code, special for you, our Smidgen listener.

We want to know if you tried the tonic test and what exactly you learned about tea in this episode Let us know! Hit us up on any of the Red Stick Spice Co socials, including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Hear all Smidgen episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pandora, or your browser, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.