Use the top half of an onion when only half is needed; the bottom half or root end remains fresher than the top half for a longer time.
Slicing onions under running water or in a pot of water can prevent tears.
To quicken the process of frying onions, add a 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Garbanzo 's, green beans, chunks of sweet potato and tomato are combined in chicken broth seasoned with thyme, basil and paprika in this soup which can easily be altered to suit a vegetarian diet.
You'll adore this casserole of fresh lamb, smoked ham, sausage, mixed vegetables, and large, white Italian kidney beans. Serve with fresh crusty bread. If you cook the lamb shank in water, boil it until it's falling off the bone. Then strain and reserve the stock, and replace the chicken stock with the lamb stock.
