Just In

The Tristate's "pie champ" tasted sweet victory earlier this month at the National Pie Championships in Celebration, Fla. Emily Lewis of Montgomery won a blue ribbon for her mixed nut pie called "Fruits of the Forest'' and a second place for her "Key Lime Mousse" pie in the competition sponsored by the American Pie Council. Lewis won three blue ribbons in the national pie contest last year, and has won more than half a dozen "Best of Show" awards at the Ohio State Fair. For more information on the National Pie Championships: Web site.

A few weeks ago we told you about Tuscan fennel pollen, an amazingly fragrant and flavorful ingredient harvested from the flowers of wild fennel. Then, our only source (Zingerman's in Ann Arbor, Mich.) sold the golden dust for $25 per 45 grams (plus shipping). We've since learned Piazza-Discepoli Wine Merchants in College Hill, Madeira and White Oak also offer Tuscan fennel pollen at nearly half the price ($12.99 per 33 grams) without shipping. Now maybe you can better afford the splurge.

Market Scan

Also called rape and rapini, broccoli raab is a leafy-green stalk vegetable with scattered clusters of tiny broccoli-like buds. Italians saute and braise the sharp, pungent green in olive oil with garlic for pasta or side dishes. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for no more than five days.

Sip It

Montes 1999 Malbec Reserve ($10): Fans of oak-infused, spicy reds will enjoy this offering from one of Chile's stronger producers. Montes Alpha line (especially the cabernet sauvignon) earned its recent acclaim. This robust, full red also originates from one of Chile's top vintages. Works great as an accompaniment to hearty winter meals, and a solid wine for the price.

Amy Simmons

Hot Date

Cookbook author Diane Phillips demonstrates a make-ahead Easter meal, 6-9 p.m. Feb. 27 at Cooks' Wares in Symmes Township. $65. To register: 489-6400.