Food

Roasted Okra

2 pounds okra (preferably small pods - if using larger, cut into 1 inch lengths)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or water
Salt

By Ian McNulty

New Orleans, La. –
Each year, as the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina comes around, I think about the transformational power of the very early months of the recovery, when everything seemed to be at stake, teetering on the brink of individual decisions. I think especially of the way the actions of a few could inspire so many, and how often that inspiration happened around a kitchen or in a dining room.

Creole Cream Cheese

Yields approximately 8 pints

1 gallon skim milk
1 cup buttermilk
Pinch of salt
6 - 8 drops liquid vegetable rennet (can be purchase in health food stores)

In a large stainless or glass bowl mix together all ingredients. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and leave out on kitchen counter at room temperature for 18 - 24 hours.

By Ian McNulty

New Orleans, La. –
There's been quite a buzz about Pizza Delicious, a pop-up restaurant in the Bywater serving thin-crust, New York-style pizzas. The format is take-out only, they're only available two nights a week, and yet the place caught on so fast there's often a line out the door.