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Maria Helm Sinskey head shot - Epicurious

Maria Helm Sinskey

Contributor

Maria Helm Sinskey is a chef and cookbook author. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy, Sinskey honed her pastry skills in Denmark before returning to the States to work the line at several venerable San Francisco restaurants, including Boz Scagg’s Blue Light Café, the Sherman House, and Plumpjack Café, which she left in 1999 to pursue a life combining family, food, and wine in the Napa Valley. Currently, she runs the kitchens at her husband’s winery, Robert Sinskey Vineyards, where you may find her laying out plots for her organic gardens, teaching, writing, and raising two children.

In 1996, she was named Best New Chef by Food & Wine Magazine, and has also earned the honors of SF Magazine Rising Star Chef, SF Chronicle Rising Star chef, in addition to appearing on many PBS and Food Network Shows. Her first cookbook, “The Vineyard Kitchen: Menus Inspired by the Season”, published by HarperCollins was released in September 2003. “Family Meals: Creating Traditions in the Kitchen”, published by Oxmore House, followed in November 2008.

Turkey Pot Pie

This easy turkey pot pie recipe makes the most of leftover Thanksgiving turkey and store-bought pie crust—post-holiday, we all deserve a break.

Cool Cucumber Raita

If you don't have time to drain regular yogurt, buy thick, Greek-style yogurt, available at many supermarkets and at specialty foods stores.

Easy Chicken Masala

Position racks in the top third and the bottom third of the oven so that the chicken and the carrots can roast together.

Parmesan Toasts with Prosciutto and Fig Jam

Kids like the sweet-salty combination of the jam, Parmesan, and prosciutto.

Cioppino-Style Roasted Crab

For leftovers of this classic seafood stew, increase the recipe by half.

Turkey Pot Pie

This can help use up all the leftover veggies, too.

Turkey Empanadas

These empanadas are moist and full of flavor. If your gravy is thin, simmer to reduce and thicken it, then chill before using.

Barbecue Pulled-Turkey Sandwiches

Way better than the classic leftover-turkey sandwich.

Crème Fraîche and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Use a potato masher—or even just a large fork—if you don't have a ricer.

Turkey Meatloaf with Mushrooms and Herbs

A turkey meatloaf recipe that promises to never, ever be dry and boring.

Hummus and Crudités

Pack carrot and celery sticks along with this lemony hummus.

"Pizza" Sandwiches

You'll have enough tomato spread for leftovers.