Simonds Videos

With Thanksgiving coming up, roast chicken is probably the last thing you want to think about, but it s always helpful to have new ideas for easy side dishes. Roast cherry tomatoes are simple to prepare and taste delicious. Use the leftovers on sandwiches or as a topping on grilled meats or seafood. Sprinkle the top with different herbs such as fresh or dried basil or oregano before baking, then toss with cooked whole wheat pasta, grated cheese, and some greens. Add cooked meat or seafood and you have a filling and healthy meal. Enjoy the holiday! Nina

According to Food Network Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, his custom-made knives are the most personal tools in his kitchen. And as you can see in the video, they are VERY special.

According to Food Network Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, his custom made knives are the most personal tools in his kitchen. And as you can see in the video, they are VERY special. Morimoto says that the knives are the ideal thickness, length, and heaviness for the way he works. He feels especially close to them because they act as an extension of his arm in much the same way Tiger Wood s uses his golf clubs to play his best game. Without a knife that I have complete control of," he says, "there is a disconnect between the arm and the action. If the result is not perfect, it s unacceptable. Morimoto likens his knives to a samurai s sword and he keeps them as sharp as razors. You can see his extraordinary skill in cutting the daikon radish into a translucent sheet, a technique the Japanese call katsuamaki -- a skill that every Japanese chef must master to be considered an expert. Enjoy! Nina

Champagne has become a little pricey. So we asked wine expert Howie Rubin, of Bauer Wine s recommendation and you can splurge on the smoked salmon or lobster (which is also a bargain). Have a great time and enjoy! Nina

Dr. Chun Han Zhu -- and many other Chinese doctors -- praises this soup as being one of the most therapeutic foods you can eat in the fall and winter to strengthen the immune system.