Beer

The bubbles in the stout act as a leavening agent, so only a small amount of baking soda is needed for the rich, moist cake to rise.

Barbecue without beer is, well, too depressing to contemplate, and I'm not just talking about to drink. Beer's malty sweetness and pleasantly bitter edge of hops make for an interesting marinade. These Calgary Hot Wings were inspired by the Big Rock Brewery, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I taught a memorable cooking class at Big Rock—memorable not only for the impressive assortment of interesting beers on tap but also for the fact that it snowed 3 inches during my outdoor class, a first for this Miami-based grill guy.

Asopao de Pollo Angel Rodriguez of New York, New York, writes: "My family in Puerto Rico used to make this asopao for special occasions or when we needed something to eat while fishing by the river. This dish is made with sofrito, a flavor base in Latin American cooking.

Flavia Schepmans of New York, New York, writes: "One of many Belgian regional variations, this beef stew hails from my mother's natal city, Ghent." Our associate art director Flavia Schepmans's mother uses American-style beer in this recipe. If you want to try another beer, go for a Belgian ale — an imported pilsner might be too bitter.

When we first tasted this drink, it was made with Rolling Rock, a mass-market golden lager, and Tropicana-brand orange juice. A more highfalutin' version would be a combination of fresh-squeezed orange juice and a wheat beer, such as Celis White.

This drink is sometimes called Champagne Velvet, and in certain quarters is known as the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Shandygaff, a fine euphoric title.

This is said to be the cavalryman's answer to Artillery Punch.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This is a great marinade for any fish; start marinating at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour before grilling or sautéing. This recipe is an accompaniment for Sautéed Shrimp with Chipotle Chilies.

This is said to be the cavalryman's answer to Artillery Punch.