Pan-Asian

As I mentioned earlier, I've been obsessed with all things tiki, from Singapore Slings to the Tonga Room and everything in between. And as if on cue, a friend and fellow food writer hosted an island-themed party. I immediately knew one of the items I'd be showing up to the door with: tiki snack mix.

I didn't realize the addictive power of this trail mix; it was gone within a few minutes. There's something about the tropical-themed combination of sweet, chewy pineapple, rich pork, and spicy, soy-tinged nuts that will have you reaching for another handful. Get the recipe for an easy Pacific Rim snack that'll satisfy at any party when you read more.

Upon realizing that March is National Noodle Month and National Sauce Month, I've been obsessed with learning more about Eastern noodle dishes and Asian sauces. So I swore it was culinary kismet when I got sent a copy of Easy Asian Noodles ($18). The title is by Helen Chen, a writer with three other Chinese cookbooks under her belt and the founder of an Asian cookware line. For an established Asian cooking figure like Chen, would this new book live up to its expectations? Find out when you read more.