Ask the Chef: New years Eve Tradition with Brigaderios Brazillian Candy
Dear Chef Coco, When I was young we used to visit relatives for the holidays in Brazil and they always served a nougat confection on New Year's Eve at the parties. Can you give me a recipe for these? Sarah J. Dear Sarah, Brigaderios are a traditional Brazilian national treasure It's undoubtedly the national chocolate truffle of Brazil. The history of the confectionery dates back to the end of world war II where these little chocolate delights were made for fundraising for the


Ask The Chef-Holiday Food Gifts-Italian Fig Cookies
Dear Chef Coco, Can you share a good idea for a special food gift? I am Italian and I want to make something special this year for my holiday party sweet tray and make enough to give as hostess gifts during the holidays. John H. Dear John H, Holiday Food Gifts are a great way to celebrate the past culinary treasures of one's family. Folks look forward to the season and a chance to reminise about childhood favorite foods. My mama was a great baker and all around fabulous Cajun


Ask the Chef: Holiday entertaining- Brunch New Orleans style
Dear Chef Coco, I remember on my last trip to the Big Easy we had a delicious brunch in the French Quarter. I would like to use that as a theme for my holiday family brunch I always hold the Sunday before Christmas. Can you give me some ideas? Cindy P. Dear Cindy, Brunch in New Orleans after church is a long standing tradition among the local folks. It tends to be a more formal affair because you still have your church clothes on when you front up to your favorite neighborhoo

