Bought myself a Christmas gift

[LizStreithorst]

I don't think that ChefPaul visits the forum any more but he would approve. I just ordered a book titled "Culinary Artistry". It tells what spices go with what foods. I love to cook, but I find myself being tied to recipes. I'd like to be a more free cook. I'd like to be able to improvise on my own.

[Vanman]

That sounds like a great Christmas gift. I love to cook also. Recipes are just suggestions.

[LizStreithorst]

When I try to modify a recipe sometimes it works, some time it doesn't. One cool thing I discovered that Chinese chili oil works in dishes from other parts of the world. I've used it in Texas chili and Cajun red beans and rice. Some how it's heat is different but compliments the heat of cayenne.

[seanyuki]

Liz , I use this Lee Kam Kee chili oil for cooking.


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https://usa.lkk.com/en/products/chili-oil

[LizStreithorst]

The one I use has dried chilis in it. Sometimes I use the seeds, but mostly I just use the oil.

[jwcarlson]

Sounds like a gift that keeps giving! I'll have to take a look at it, honestly, I usually just wing it. I'm not a particularly good cook, I don't think. But it would be nice to have some rules instead of just guessing.