Orange

The name of this cake derives from the flavors that are reminiscent of the classic mole, an aromatic, delicious chocolaty savory sauce that originated in Pueblo, Mexico. I have always thought that dried chiles were a surprisingly good match for chocolate, and with the addition of canela, cloves, and pumpkin seeds, the full mole flavors emerge. For a shortcut, substitute sectioned grapefruit for the orange caramel.

Rum and spices-classic Caribbean ingredients-also happen to be the classic ingredients in the traditional English steamed pudding. This lovely version of the Christmas dessert is from the Grand View Beach Hotel, Villa Point, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Begin preparing it at least one day before serving.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Toss one cup of the pesto with one pound of cooked pasta, or try it as a sauce over baked chicken or fish.

For easy serving, ladle the soup into pretty bowls, and set them on the buffet table.

There will be plenty of leftover biscotti for afternoon coffee breaks.

Marinate chicken a day ahead; after ten-minute broil, the dish is ready.

Gorgonzola cheese adds great flavor to this southwestern winter salad.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Variant: Eddie Brown

The unique filling has a flavor and soft texture reminiscent of orange marmalade.

Chewy, candy-like caramel cookies enhanced with orange and crystallized ginger. The leftover orange sugar syrup is a delicious sweetener for hot tea.