Newsletter: In the kitchen: Nutmeg and comfort food

I don’t know about you, but I can’t believe we’ve already reached the last week of January. It seems like just yesterday we were plowing through the holidays and, well, this week some of us are still working toward our New Year’s resolutions (congratulations!). Or at least we’re finally getting used to writing “2017” when we have to enter a date.

In the kitchen this week, we take another look at nutmeg. Nutmeg is one spice that you might associate with the holidays, but think beyond cookies or pumpkin spice lattes and try incorporating it in other dishes. And to commemorate last week’s inauguration, we take a look at some of our favorite recipes inspired by former presidents and their first families (you have to try Mamie Eisenhower’s fudge recipe).

— Noelle Carter

THERE’S MORE TO NUTMEG THAN HOLIDAY COOKIES

Sweet, warm and slightly peppery, a grating of fresh nutmeg can add a jolt of flavor to a number of dishes, both sweet and savory. Sprinkle it into a rustic parsnip and chard gratin, the spice balancing the rich flavors of the vegetables and cheese. Or slowly simmer a pot of spiced winter squash, the warm stew flavored with fragrant notes of nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin and clove. And if you’re still craving cookies after the holidays, bake up a batch of nutmeg cookies with pears and walnuts.

Fresh nutmeg dresses up a parsnip gratin.

(Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times)

JACKIE KENNEDY’S WAFFLES AND MORE INAUGURATION-INSPIRED DISHES

If there’s one thing that can bring us all together — regardless of our political differences — it’s food. Inspired by last week’s inauguration, we’ve combed through our recipe database to come up with recipes from former presidents and first families. From Jackie Kennedy’s waffles to the Nixon chicken casserole. Or whip up a plate of Mamie Eisenhower’s fudge, because nothing bridges the political divide like chocolate.

Jacqueline Kennedy’s waffles.

(Robert Lachman / Los Angeles Times)

VIDEO: ARE YOU USING YOUR MEASURING CUPS THE RIGHT WAY?

RECIPE IDEAS FOR MEYER LEMONS IN SEASON NOW

Generally in season from the late winter months through early spring, Meyer lemons are known for their soft, smooth skin, bright floral aroma and sweet flavor, a sharp difference from the jolt of acidity common in other lemon varieties. The plump, dark yellow-orange lemons are a cross between a lemon and an orange, and can be found in everything from salads to desserts, sauces and marinades. Here are some of our favorite recipes.

Lazy Mary’s lemon tart.

(Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times)

8 OF OUR FAVORITE MEATLOAF RECIPES

When you’re craving comfort food, meatloaf is certain to hit the spot. And what’s not to love? Rich and tender, with just the right balance of spice — maybe wrapped in bacon, just to gild the lily — and smothered in gravy, meatloaf is comfort food, perfected. We share eight of our favorite recipes.

Wildcat Willies wild game meatloaf.

(Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)

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