As a general rule, start with half of the amount the recipe calls for (unless directed otherwise), and add the spice until it suits your taste.

Substitute 1 cup half-and-half… 1 tablespoon melted butter plus enough whole milk to make 1 cup

Substitute 1 cup self-rising flour… 1 cup all-pupose flour  1 teaspoon baking power 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Prepare 1 pound package of regular-sized gnocchi, prepared according to package instructions.

Over high heat, sauté in olive oil 1/2 white onion (diced)  Bring 2 quarts of water to boil; add…

In heavy pan place 7-8 cups potatoes (peeled, cubed) and 6-8 cloves garlic (peeled).

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Whisk… 1 1/2 cups stock  1/2 teaspoon salt  1/4 teaspoon pepper  2 teaspoon lime zest 2 tablespoons lime juice  2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted then cooled) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil  1 teaspoon sugar  Combine with 1 cup rice (uncooked).

Combine in heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Heat until brown.

Heat oven to 450 degrees. In aluminum foil… 2 -3 heads garlic (top chopped off)  drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil  salt & pepper to taste  Wrap tightly and roast for 60-75 minutes.

Put the following in blender… 4 - 5 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed 2 - 3 ounces fresh ginger root, peeled and cut across grain into thin strips and chopped _(roughly equal to the same amount of garlic) _ 1/4 cup soy sauce  1/4 cup mirin (or rice wine or saki)  Blend until smooth, then add…  1/4 cup dark corn syrup 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar Blend more until smooth.