M. J. Adams

This is a complete meal—with a main course and two sides. Also called "American bison," buffalo tastes slightly sweeter than beef. It also has significantly less fat and cholesterol. You can find buffalo at specialty foods stores (such as Whole Foods), some farmers' markets, and online at dartagnan.com. If you can't find buffalo, use lean grass-fed beef.

These pots de crème won raves from our food editors for their wonderful butterscotch flavor and creamy texture. The combination of muscovado and Demerara sugars gives the custard its deep flavor.