New Best Friend

Sometimes when I'm reading comments on a friend's blog, I come across submissions so clever or interesting that they prompt me to visit the commenter's blog to see if I want to add them to my reading list. I have to admit, it doesn't often result in a new blog to add - I don't suffer badly written blogs gladly.

Recently, however, I added a new one. The Hungry Dog. Not only does she feature food that sounds good, she writes in a clear, humorous, warm style that I enjoy. And she likes dogs. I think I like this lady.

In her Thanksgiving post she featured a link to a cauliflower gratin that she was planning to share with friends on Turkey Day. It sounded so good that I rushed right down to my neighborhood store to pick up the ingredients. Thanksgiving, phooey! I wanted it now!

Talk about your total, instant gratification!

It was as rich as mac and cheese - and, by the way, the recipe reads just about the same - but lighter because the cauliflower isn't as heavy as macaroni. And the addition of horseradish to the cracker crumb topping is inspired, lifting the dish from predictable to delectable.

I changed the recipe just a bit, using cream-style horseradish instead of the fiery kind and sprinkling the gratin with finely chopped fresh rosemary for additional flavor. I liked both of my tweaks and would do them again.

We are facing a long winter with lots of cauliflower in it. My new best friend has me actually looking forward to it.