Arroz doce has been my favorite dessert since childhood — and this version from my Tia Lilia is the creamiest of them all. Here’s the story behind it, plus the question I get asked most about making it right.
My Tia Lilia’s Arroz Doce — and Why Sweet Rice Will Always Be My Favorite Dessert Read More »
Every year for St. Patrick’s Day, my family asks for soda bread. This is my version — a classic Irish loaf made with cold butter, buttermilk, and a few touches from my own kitchen: orange zest, dried currants, and a honey butter finish straight from the oven. No yeast, no fuss, and on the table in about an hour.
Irish Soda Bread Recipe – Maria Lawton Read More »
Growing up, Pastel de Nata was always one of those treats that made any ordinary day feel a little more special — those golden, creamy custard tarts from the bakery had a way of bringing everyone together. When I started thinking about how to share those same flavors with a crowd, this Pastel de Nata
Pastel De Nata Dip Read More »
Every summer when strawberries are at their peak, I find myself making this Tarte de Morango recipe. It is one of those desserts that looks impressive but comes together with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. My family cannot get enough of it, and I have a feeling yours will feel the same
Tarte De Morango Recipe Read More »
I had the pleasure of making this Upside Down Carrot Cake alongside my friend Manny Largo. We were filming on the island of Faial, in the Azores, on a beautiful farm-to-table property that reminded me why I fell in love with the food of my islands all over again. Fresh carrots, a rich caramel sauce,
Upside Down Carrot Cake Read More »
Amêijoas da Caldeira de Santo Cristo is one of the most special recipes I have ever had the privilege of sharing. I was invited to São Jorge island during Season Two of Maria’s Portuguese Table, where Nelson and Kathy Ponta-Graca graciously prepared these legendary clams for me right at the source. These Amêijoas da Caldeira
Amêijoas da Caldeira de Santo Cristo Read More »
If there’s one dish that instantly takes me back to the shores of the Azores, it’s Grilled Lapas. These little limpets cling to the volcanic rocks along the coastline and are as much a part of Azorean life as the ocean itself. I had the most incredible experience sharing lapas with Kathy and Nelson on
Grilled Lapas (Limpets) Read More »
Espécies are one of those recipes that instantly bring me back to the Azores — the warm scent of cinnamon and anise filling the kitchen, the careful rolling of dough, and the anticipation of pulling those golden wreaths out of the oven. These traditional Azorean spiced pastries are a Christmas season staple across the islands,
Holy Ghost Soup — or Sopa do Espírito Santo — is one of the most sacred and beloved recipes in all of Azorean tradition. This is the soup that brings everyone to the table, literally. Growing up, the Holy Ghost Feast was one of the most anticipated times of year in our community, and this
Dona Amelias are one of my favorite things to bring home from Terceira. Every time I visit the island, I make sure to stop and pick up a box — they never last long! These little corn cakes are deeply tied to Azorean history, and making them in my own kitchen always takes me back
