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For most Thanksgiving Dinner is about the turkey, but for me it's about dessert; that last dish that puts you over the edge right into that food induced coma. My dessert of choice is a rich, silky smooth sweet potato pie, not to be confused with the traditional Pumpkin Pie. I take mine on the couch in front of the TV as I fight the Itis off trying to stay awake for the NFL games. I think I'm 0 for my last 5 staying awake. Sweet Potato Pie is kind of a big deal, right there with potato salad at a barbecue. No half step-in aloud. I keep my version pretty traditional but elevate the flavor via use of brown butter and whole nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.

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Crispy roasted okra is one of my new favorite veggies. Its a no-fuss, delicious side that is ready in less than 30 minutes. Down here in Texas we're lucky to still be able to get fresh okra locally. If you're fortunate enough as well this is a great side you can add that will free you up to focus on other dishes. Many people fear okra because of the slime. Don't fear the slime, as a matter of fact, follow the great Nelson Mandela's words and don't fear anything - "I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." I recently discovered the musician Mimi. She is an incredibly inspiring and brave artist. Check out her song "Afraid" as an example of her talent and testimony.

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For a nice change-up to sweet potato Thanksgiving recipes try this simple, low prep hasselback sweet potatoes dish. This doesn't have to be a special occasion dish, as it easily works for a weeknight side. I've been experimenting more with ghee (claried butter) lately in some of my dishes. Ghee is a great cooking oil that I jokingly refer to as super butter since its both lactose and casein free, has a high smoke point (aka you can cook it at high heat levels without it browning/burning), and is rich and complex in flavor. Celebrate the life of the great Roy Hargrove with me by cooking to my favorite track "Strasbourg/St. Denis" which is my favorite song by his quintet.

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Had the chance to team up with Parmigiano Reggiano brand cheese for this cheesy whole roasted cauliflower recipe. I like this dish personally because, besides being easy to make, it's versatile as both a side dish and meatless main entree. With the focus being on real Italian cheese, I thought it appropriate to call on Aretha Franklin's version of "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing." Enjoy

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Heirloom tomato galette made with puff pastry is an easy, savory dessert recipe for non-bakers or just anyone looking for convenience. Charming, effortless and screaming Summer dessert, this galette is a winner! MOOD MUSIC During my last farmer's market visit, the selection of fresh, vibrant heirloom tomatoes got me pretty damn excited. Admittedly, I lose …

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Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar - Without a doubt one of the best roasted Brussels sprouts recipes you'll make; a simple, highly flavorful way to enjoy them! The sprouts are both savory and sweet, highly aromatic, and provides a unique mouth experience for the holidays or easy weeknight side. I never had brussels sprouts as …

Read More about "that was then" roasted purple brussels sprouts and grapes with balsamic glaze