Quasi Autunno… Almost Autumn…

Autumn is almost here,  and hopefully our hot humid weather,  which can give us spectacular sunsets,   will give way to cooler temperatures to go along with the subtle changes that  let me know that Fall is near.  In the garden,  the pumpkin plants are big,  the pumpkins however,   are still small… I will keep my fingers crossed,  meanwhile,  in the kitchen,  the flavors of Autumn are beginning to show up… fruits that remind me of the new season… Poached Pear Dumplings,  A Rustic tart with my Fig Jam and Pears,  with Cream Cheese,  and topped with a buttery crumble,  and  Chicken Cacciatore,  just like dad taught me to make at the restaurant… made into a pot pie.  Comfort foods …