American

There's Carolina Red Barbecue Sauce in this, a "must" with the pork.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Daniel Boulud's Short Ribs Braised in Red Wine with Celery Duo.

The curd can be prepared up to four days ahead; the assembled tartlets, one day ahead.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The following hors d'oeuvre, a variation on the BLT, can be put together quickly if the ingredients are prepared a few hours ahead and assembled just before serving. Finely diced mozzarella would be a nice addition to the salad filling. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The apple-essence syrup is brushed over the cake to infuse it with flavor and make it extra-moist. If you prefer, substitute apple cider for the brandy.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

It may be corn season, but canned or frozen corn kernels work just as well as fresh in this corn salad. A mixed green salad rounds out the menu nicely.

You won't miss butter and syrup when this honey-sweetened fruit treat tops the pancakes. It's also delicious with waffles, French toast or on its own.

Choose a medium-sized head of cabbage and remove the tough outer leaves. It is important to slice the cabbage very thinly. The dressing will break down the harsh texture and soften the slaw.

Serve these with a creamy potato gratin. Market Tip: Avoid steaks with lots of cartilage — they will be tough and chewy.

This recipe has been in the family of senior editor Randi Danforth for generations. Her great-grandmother bought penny sponge candy to take to the movies in Minnesota. A love for the crunchy sweet led to recipe experiments in the kitchen. Randi recalls watching her mother make this magical confection--the baking soda causes vigorous bubbling. Pack it in jars or airtight tins, and store at room temperature; exposure to moisture and air will soften the candy.

Similar to pumpkin pie, but not quite as sweet. Serve with whipped cream, if you like.

All-American apple pie cannot be ascribed to any single region of the United States, of course. But this straightforward pie--no raisins, no spirits, no creamy accompaniments--is a heartland basic.