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Food

Backburner: What's in the kitchen this week

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 12.26.2007
Pearl sugar
Why you want it: These gorgeous white nuggets would be pretty in a cut-crystal bowl for spooning into after-dinner coffee, but they're also a crucial ingredient to Belgian sugar waffles, according to the box. Apparently the big pieces leave crispy pockets of sugar behind. We'll try that, too.
How much: $4.39 at AJ's Fine Foods in La Encantada, on the northwest corner of Campbell Avenue and Skyline Drive, 2805 E. Skyline Drive.
Candle holders
Why you want it: Throwing a kid's birthday party is already stressful, so why not take it a little easy on yourself with candle holders that double as decorations? We love the choo-choo, but there are all kinds of other cute toppers.
● How much: $2.50 at Pat's Cake And Party Supplies, 1840 S. Alvernon Way.
'Lidia's Italy'
By Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali (Alfred A. Knopf, 2007)
Why you want it: Bastianich's Public Television series has introduced a lot of us to her and her simple, delectable cooking. You get to know her a little more in this book — she talks lots about her family — and there are recipes that sound too tempting. Like crespelle stuffed with mushrooms. And sage pudding. Yum.
How much: $35.