Herbs & Spices
Crushed-Mint Lemonade
A great barbecue thirst-quencher.
Homemade Chai
This chai recipe—inspired by versions in India—combines black tea, spices, and milk. The savory notes from black pepper and cardamom in this version give it a wonderful aromatic complexity.
Spiced Yogurt Drink
Yogurt drinks, known as lassi in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, are served in New York City's numerous Indian restaurants. Salty and sweet versions accompany spicy meals to cool the heat.
Iced Lemongrass Tea
Nahm Takrai
This lightly sweetened drink, served with both lunch and dinner in Thailand, is very cooling with spicy foods.
Cumin Black Beans with Mint
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Coriander Lime Shrimp
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.
Stir-Fried Spinach with Ginger and Garlic
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Broccoli and Cauliflower with Lemon, Mustard and Chive Butter
The flavorful butter adds plenty of zip.
Boneless Pork Chops with Ginger, Fig, and Lemon Compote
This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Gingered Cream Cheese Grapes
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.
Indian-Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Cilantro-Mint Chutney
Tikka curry paste — used to season the chicken — can be found in Asian markets, but any mild Indian curry paste can be substituted.
Potato, Celery and Ham Salad with Tarragon
A dish from the Pays de Caux region in northern France, where it is called salade Cauchoise. The salad is traditionally bound with crème fraîche, but it is delicious made with mayonnaise, too.
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.