Joan (Fisichelli) Brisimitzakis

I remember my Aunt Josie making these cookies every spring because of their light texture. She loved visiting with friends every Sunday. They would take turns visiting one another in the afternoons sharing their desserts with coffee. The conversations were always about family, friends who they may have recently talked to, and of course various recipes. Invitations we not necessary among these ladies. There was usually a phone call the day before or even that morning stating they were...

During our Catholic Lenten fast growing up, Fridays and Wednesdays were always meat free. My home is still meatless every Friday. One of our favorite meals continuing through today, is Pasta Ca Muddica/ Pasta with Breadcrumbs. Its name comes from the breadcrumbs being used, muddica, meaning crumb in Sicilian dialect.

Makes about 24 pieces 3 c. sugar + 1 tsp. sugar ⅓ c. light corn syrup ½ c. water 1 c. honey 3 egg whites pinch of salt 4. c unsalted toasted nuts (almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts) coarsely chopped ½ tbsp. vanilla, lemon, orange, or num extract edible rice wafer sheets (see Amazon or a baking store near you) cooking spray parchment paper candy thermometer In a saucepan, mix in sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F with a candy thermometer. Set aside. Bring honey...