1 Week in Phoenix, Local DIY Recipes to Try?
Hello!
In early June, I will be staying with four others at a resort in northeast Phoenix. While we plan to eat out for a couple meals, we will definitely home-make the majority of our food. But I still really want to absorb the local cuisine style!
Do you know any recipes I could try that are simple but still encapsulate the essence of Phoenix-style cookery? Unfortunately, since I live in Cleveland, Ohio, I am inexperienced with Southwestern cooking, although I do plan to test-run all these recipes before the trip. Also, I would prefer much of our menu to be vegetarian, and spice-optional (as in, the recipe might recommend jalapenos, but they are not absolutely necessary to add).
With that in mind, are there any particular grocery stores you would recommend? Seasonal ingredients?
I really want to get everything I can culturally out of this trip :) I really appreciate any help you could offer!
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Would you give us a little more information, please. "... a resort in northeast Phoenix" is just a starting point in this large geographic area. Also, your query begs the question about cooking facilities at your resort. Could you tell us more, please?
I have no idea what kinds of Southwestern ingredients are available to you in Cleveland, Ohio so I can't really speak to your question about trying recipes in advance. Perhaps your local library has a copy of Barbara Fenzl's book "SOUTHWEST, The Beautiful". Stunning photographs will whet your appetite and give you an idea of what is possible.
However - and there is a bright light at the end of this tunnel - a grocery store in the Phoenix area that is not-to-be-missed is Pro's Ranch Market (prosranch.com). I believe there are seven locations; though likely not one in the northeast Phoenix area. But this would be worth the drive. In addition to having a large selection of hispanic foods, there will be a food court where you can buy/assemble all or part of your meal(s). I cannot adequately describe what a fun experience this will be for SW food newbies! Tortillas are freshly made, Mexican cheeses are available in bulk, the fruit & vegetable selection will likely boggle you, etc. It's a fiesta-meets-grocery store place that should not be missed.
