I added lots of heavy spices like cinnamon, chili powder, and cumin which gave the carrots a really rich savory flavor. The dates and citrus gave a great sweetness and mix of texture. It’s bold, salty, sweet, and heart warming.

I love making risotto. It’s a labor of love. It requires you to stand over the stove for a long time patiently stirring in ladle fulls of stock over and over again. Once it all comes together it feels so wonderful to present your guests (or just yourself) with a warm bowl of comfort. It’s magical how lemon juice also transforms this dish.

These have become a staple in my house this winter. I usually pair them with roasted chicken or salmon. This recipe is extra easy for a weeknight dinner especially since it uses a premixed za’atar blend. I add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to give the potatoes a bright note.

I know there is this super cheesy trend of Mommy-bloggers sharing “Marry Me Chicken” recipes (that usually just look like insta-pot chicken stews). If I’m going to hop on this cringe trend I would call this chicken “Date Me Chicken”