This new tool is a total uni-tasker, but it might just come in handy. To find out what it is, read more

If you read this fabulous little website frequently, you probably know by now that I am a complete and total Spainophile (yes I know that's not a real word, but I couldn't find the Spanish equivalent to the French loving Francophile). After living in Andalucia for two years, what can I say? I love all things Spanish, including the food. I have quite the collection of Spanish cookbooks, however my favorite is The Cuisines Of Spain: Exploring Regional Home Cooking by Teresa Barrenechea. I received this book as a gift from my godfather and have made lots of successful, authentic tasting dishes that take me back to the balmy nights and long, lazy afternoons. The empanada dough is flaky and browns perfectly, the classic patatas bravas tapa is the best recipe I've tried, and the gambas al ajilio is succulent and garlicy.

I especially enjoy this book for its beautiful photography of the Spanish countryside, detailed descriptions of the origins of the recipes, and Barrenechea's personal stories that relate to each dish. If you are interested in learning the secrets of a genuine Spanish mother, I highly recommend this book.

If you're scared of cooking whole fish because of how they look, I say it's time to approach that fear and kick it to the curb. Otherwise, how are you going to delight in this lovely grilled striped bass with orange-saffron butter? You can even have the fishmonger (the fish equivalent of a butcher) do all the squeamish work like gutting, cleaning and fin removal. Once that part is done, the rest is a snap and the meal comes together in no time at all. To get the recipe for a great Sunday BBQ, read more