We wouldn't have had the stomach for Fourth of July celebrations if TNZ hadn't won back the America's Cup last week. But we did! So it's fried chicken, waffles, burgers, hot dogs and sweet cherry pie all round. You will find recipes for all of this and more in our American Eats for Independence Day collection.
I will be celebrating America's independence with veges, Mexican, matcha and a sprinkle of Hollywood glamour because this is what stood out for me on a recent trip to LA where the food was so good I stuffed myself silly. Since returning I have been enjoying plenty of Farmers Plates - inspired by AOC restaurant that pairs roasted seasonal vegetables with dips and spreads, burrata and grilled bread for a fun and informal meal. Brioche with prosciutto, gruyere and a sunny-side-up egg, also from AOC is a new favourite light supper dish and my peanut butter and jelly filled LA kisses bring back sweet memories.
![Allyson Gofton's haricot bean coconut curry and Warren Elwin is cooking with sake. Photos / Bite magazine](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/3Y3OIYUYVWAXOKJ3YZ2DBQJK7U.jpg?auth=ae109c41582bcfa2e3ead84609ad2a20f235a4f4a9554d02ab4f12f8c934e475&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)
Heading East, Warren Elwin is cooking with sake - his saketini makes a warming winter tipple - and Peter Gordon is helping us get our heads around the different types of miso we have available.
![Megan May's socca flatbreads. Photo / Bite Magazine](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/WNVFYD5IRPVUYNXSVUYLHOJUUE.jpg?auth=ea6b8eb436a69a1543f98eb6972bb24d19de00c57b8963c22cd26fe173831b09&width=16&height=20&quality=70&smart=true)