When you start to modify or even create recipes, cooking becomes as much art as it is science. As such, the more tools and techniques you have in your toolbox, the more you can explore the art form and make it something that is truly yours. That's what this site is about.

I believe you should alter recipes to your own tastes. The idea of "authentic" food is not all that important to me. I think you should understand the basics and some history of a recipe such as where it comes from and the key ingredients that make it recognizable as that named dish. But from that point forward, I think you should feel free to make it your own. Something you really like.

As an example, if you put tomatoes in your clam chowder, you can no longer call it New England Clam Chowder. That doesn't mean you can't do it, just call it something else, like Manhattan Clam Chowder. On the other hand, if you are making New England Clam Chowder feel free to add the aromatics you like, the type of potatoes that you favor, the clams you like and a dairy product that can range from skim milk to heavy cream. Thus not all New England Clam Chowders are the same so learn to make it yours within certain boundaries.

I know there are a lot of sites out there with recipes but this site is different. If you have ever watched the TV show America's Test Kitchen you know they do a lot of experimentation and research to bring you the "best" recipe for a particular dish. That's pretty presumptuous. That assumes I like what they like and I want it to look a certain way, taste a certain way, be a certain consistency, etc. This site is very different in that I encourage you to start with the recipes here but then learn how to change them to make them yours.

I believe cooking should be fun and you have to be willing to fail to learn how to make that dish that really wows you and your family and friends. Although, if you are using good ingredients and things that you like, there won't be too many failures. It should all be good. Enjoy and feel free to share your thoughts with everyone. I am really looking forward to hearing from each and every one of you on your own experiences.

Enjoy, and above all, have fun!

Bob Briggs and The BostonSidewalks Team