In my opinion, millet is an under-appreciated grain. Lately, I have been guilty of neglecting this nutty-tasting grain that resembles couscous but is packed with more nutrients and flavor. Here it comes together in a simple and zesty Mexican-style stir-fry that is well-balanced with the addition of pinto beans, crunchy green beans and sweet corn.

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Classic Spices Poster and a Giveaway

I'm delighted to offer a copy of the classic SPICES poster designed by Chef and Spice Master Tim Ziegler and Tea King Brian Keating. The second edition of the SPICES full-color poster, measuring 24" x 36", illustrating 189 spices, herbs, capsicums and seeds, is now available through MondoFood.com. The good news for my readers is that one lucky winner residing in either Canada or the US has a chance to win a copy that normally retails at $19.99.

This would be an ideal gift for the upcoming Father's Day for those special dads who love to cook and explore a variety of spices and herbs in the kitchen. Many of you have likely seen this poster displayed around restaurants, kitchens and culinary schools around the world. Now you have a chance to get a copy for your own reference or as a special gift for the culinary inspired one in your life. It's designed for professionals and experienced home cooks and beginners too. It's an excellent resource.

And it is gorgeous in addition to having instructional and inspirational value. Just have a look. Think of that as a poster to adorn your kitchen.

To enter, readers only need to leave a comment on this post indicating their favorite herb or spice, or a combination if you choose. PLEASE DO LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS ATTACHED TO YOUR COMMENT SO THAT I CONTACT YOU SHOULD YOU NOT HAVE A BLOG OR WEBSITE WITH ONE ASSOCIATED WITH IT. The contest is open to residents of the US and Canada and will run until Sunday, June 8th, 2014. At the end of the giveaway, I will choose a random winner and contact them for their mailing details.

It would also be appreciated if you followed my page on Facebook and Twitter, but that is not necessary to enter for a chance to win.

Full disclosure: I have no affiliation with the company and was contacted to see if I would be interested in offering a giveaway to my readers. Apart from a complimentary poster for myself, I am receiving no monetary compensation for writing this post. The opinions here, as always, are my own.

These little delights were part of a Mediterranean themed multi-course meal served up with some twists to celebrate a visit from a friend of mine who was visiting recently from New Zealand. This cherished friend of mine I have known for 20 years, and now I am pleased to have met his charming wife and, on this recent journey, his handsome and inquisitive young son. It was a bittersweet visit as oceans separate us physically now that they have returned home. All things sweet must come to an end, until another day.

Much like biscotti, only less sweet and softer, the cornmeal imparts a pleasant grainy texture to this shortbread and each lemony bite literally melts in your mouth. Very easy to prepare with little fuss or mess, they are a wonderful way to cleanse your palate after a rich meal with a myriad of taste sensations.

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After deciding between a craving for broccoli or cauliflower, I settled on the subtler tasting cauliflower as I wanted a curry too and this vegetable is a perfect vehicle to carry a spicy bouquet. I've certainly been making a more concerted effort of late to come up with fancier vegetable sides to go along with meals needing an extra dose of veg. The advantage of this one is it comes together in hardly anytime at all once your prep is done. And it adds elegance and flare to the dinner table.

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