There are a lot of things Daryl and I make that we enjoy, and we’re frequently experimenting with new ideas to expand our culinary horizons. Our Instant Pot has been a godsend for trying new dishes and improving old ones. So narrowing it down to just three isn’t easy — but I’ll give it my best shot.

1. Texas Chili
I have my own recipe that I’ve honed from the original Wick Fowler’s chili kit. If I’m in a really good mood, I’ll make it with a nicer cut of meat like a mock tender steak. And I never — never — put beans in the chili, because at that point it stops being authentic Texas chili. We’re getting to that time of year again, so I probably need to get a pot simmering on the stove sometime soon.

2. Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad
If you’ve never been to one of the Columbia Restaurants in Florida, it’s worth the trip for this salad alone. They assemble it right at the table: julienned meat (either turkey or ham) and Swiss cheese, chunky tomatoes, green olives, iceberg lettuce, and freshly grated romano cheese, all brought together with their signature dressing. It’s simple, it’s refreshing, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home — a perfect quick meal any night of the week.

3. Daryl’s Chicken Marsala and Mushroom Risotto
I taught Daryl how to make this once upon a time, and now she does it better than I do. It’s a little time-consuming, but absolutely worth the effort. Both dishes are rich and creamy, and together they make an elegant, almost restaurant-quality meal — especially with a side of roasted asparagus. It’s one of those dinners you could serve to special guests and still impress them.

Those are our three favorites, at least for now. Ask me again in a year and the list might look different — that’s the fun of always trying something new in the kitchen.

Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt.