Favorite Soup Recipes

A few months ago, I impulse purchased a package of Sixteen Bean Soup Mix from Aldi. I told myself that it was for serious, adult reasons—bean are a high-fiber form of protein, cooking dry beans is more environmentally and budget-friendly than buying canned, etc.—but actually it was because I thought the beans looked nice.

Welcome to my annual best things I ate post, a compilation of 2025's most memorable dishes. This was an especially travel-packed year, with trips to Wisconsin, New York City, Iceland, Nova Scotia, Boston, and Japan, plus fabulous meals close to home in the Twin Cities.

During our time in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Kanazawa, Takayama, and the Japanese Alps, we were treated to gorgeous scenery, beautiful temples and gardens, enriching cultural experiences, and of course, delicious food. Here are the best things I ate along the way.

Do you like buying presents for frequent travelers that will actually get used? Are you a travel lover whose friends and family are asking you for gift ideas? Here's a practical-minded travel gift guide ranging from stocking stuffers to splurges, based on my experiences as an avid traveler.

'Tis the season for holiday gift guides—from bloggers, magazines, and online publications. My annual made in Minnesota gift guide reflects my personal tastes: think earrings and chocolate. If that's your (or your loved ones') jam too, I hope you find something here to add to your holiday gift list.

My trips to Japan have been among the best travel experiences of my life. Here are my tips for making sure your trip to Japan goes as smoothly as possible, from planning and packing to navigating mass transit and restaurants.