The Sunday Ledger
A bit of Paris in New York, peak spring produce, and "horse-eye" pottery
1. Mussels in Coconut Milk Broth
I write this dispatch sitting at my desk, next to a bowl of mussels and crusty bread. Spencer is in Paris for work, and when I saw one, lonely bag of mussels left at my fishmonger, I couldn’t help but bring a bit of France home with me.
I initially planned to keep it classic with a white wine broth, but decided to take the opportunity to prepare them my favorite way, in a coconut milk broth. Spencer shares my love of mussels. He does not share my love of coconut milk.
Both grocers nearby were out of lemongrass, but I decided to stay the course regardless and made the broth with shallot, garlic, ginger, a red habanero pepper, lemon zest + juice, and fish sauce. Sweet coconut milk infused with the heat of the chili is heavenly. I finished it off with some cilantro and am now on my second serving.
2. Indoor Herb Garden
Following two foiled attempts to fill my fire escape window box, I had given up on the idea of having an herb garden. When I saw these herb boxes at the farmer’s market this week, I couldn’t help myself. They had several combinations, but I landed on purple sage, chives, sweet green basil, and oregano. I need to find a dish for the bottom, but it is the perfect size for my windowsill! Inside, away from the birds.
3. Peak Spring Produce
Asparagus and rhubarb were beautiful and abundant at the farmer’s market this weekend. My bundle of bright green asparagus soldiers will be used in a simple shaved asparagus and arugula salad, with finely grated Pecorino Romano, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon. I’m envisioning a galette with the rhubarb, but there is a good chance it will become a crisp due to time constraints and my contentious relationship with baking (though nearly just as delicious) .
4. “Horse-Eye” Pottery
I caught the last day of the Kawai Kanjiro House to House exhibition at the Japan Society in midtown today. I was particularly struck by his take on a “horse-eye” plate. I envision this on a table with a stack of vibrant yellow lemons.
While in Kyoto, I visited his former home and studio, and it is a strong contender for my favorite part of the trip. He designed the building itself and nearly every item inside, embodying his philosophy of life and work as one practice. His search for creating beauty in all things is a sentiment I share.
4. Yuzuco
Yuzu is toward the top of my list of favorite flavors. I saw this Yuzu juice concentrate at the market last week and decided to give it a try. I have been drinking it over sparkling water, and can’t get enough. Tart, tangy, refreshing, and just a hint sweet. Unfortunately expensive, but I will be re-purchasing.
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