Global Grilling

We received this cookbook as a wedding gift.  I love the variety and quality of recipes. Global Grilling – Sizzling Recipes from Around the World Jay Solomon Global Grilling has been on my bookshelf for a long time.  This cookbook offers recipes for grilling all kinds of meat, fish and vegetables in a variety of […]

Rustic Lemon Macaroons

These cookies are a laid back variation of the traditional French macaroon. Lemon macaroons pair well with basil ice cream. This recipe makes about 40 cookies.  You’ll need: 16 ounce package almond meal or almond flour 5 cups powdered sugar 6 egg whites 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 lemon Preheat the oven to 325F and […]

Basil Ice Cream

A few weeks ago I tried a recipe for basil custard that failed miserably.  The ice cream machine rescued me and inspired me to create this basil ice cream. For this recipe you’ll need: 2 cups heavy cream 1 cup whole milk 1/2 cup sugar 6 egg yolks 1 large bunch basil, about 4 ounces […]

Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream & Dessert Book

This cookbook gets a lot of use in my kitchen and it’s fun to read. Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream & Dessert Book Ben Cohen & Jerry Greenfield with Nancy J. Stevens This is one of my favorite cookbooks.  It contains great recipes, a charming narrative and fun illustrations.  It’s true that I feel […]

Welcome to Farmer in the Vale!

Hi.  My name is Linda.  I live and work in Silicon Valley California. My “farm” is actually my suburban backyard.  My yard contains fruit trees and vegetable beds, but no animals (yet). In this blog I intend to share recipes, gardening tips, and cookbook reviews.  I also hope to share the occasional garden or kitchen […]