Appetizers and Starters

Walnuts Candied with Whiskey Smoked Brown Sugar

Walnuts are one of my favorite nuts--they are naturally sweet and rich. Tossed in Whiskey Smoked Brown Sugar they are addictive. This recipe only takes minutes to make this recipe. Use them as a snack to accompany a Manhattan; toss in a salad with blue cheese or use to garnish a cake. They would make excellent holiday gifts.

Makes 1 cup

2 teaspoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons Whiskey Smoked brown sugar*
11/2 teaspoons water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ cup (4 ounces) walnuts

Hazelnut and Almond Dukkah

The exact blend of nuts, seeds and spices in Egyptian Dukkah varies from cook to cook. The dukkah is part of a dip you first dip your bread in oil and then in the dukkah, next pop it in your mouth and enjoy.
Makes about 11/2 cups

1 cup almonds
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds or 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon dried mint* (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper

Bombette
Serves 4

12 thin slices about 2 pounds beef bavette or pork shoulder
3 ounces Caciocavallo or Comte cheese
24 fresh rosemary leaves
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup dry breadcrumbs
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil
4 rosemary branches for skewers, or use bamboo or metal skewers