File powder (pronounced "fee-lay") is powdered dried sassafras leaves, and is used as a thickening agent as well as a flavoring. Should be available from various spice purveyors.

Reviewed On: Feb. 20, 2009

This is a long-traditional Spanish dish, with roots going back to at least the 1600's, and as such many variations have arisen over time. Both spellings appear to be acceptable, and virtually all recipes call for the cinnamon and cheese combination. It simply isn't capirotada without the cheese. Think apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar on top -- wonderfully complimentary flavors! The ingredients used have strong religious symbolism, this being primarily a lenten dish. I made this recipe exactly as presented, and found it to be quite pleasing, as did the others in my family. Next time I will probably try using brown sugar instead of the less-historic refined white sugar. I might try using sliced almonds or walnuts. And I would try buttering the bread and oven toasting it, rather than frying. But I really enjoyed this exactly as is.

Reviewed On: Jan. 9, 2009

First off, I made this dish exactly according to the recipe, for evaluation. It bugs me to read a recipe review wherein the dish has had so many revisions and changes right out of the box that it bears no resemblance to the original intent. How is one to determine whether to give it a try or not? I do realize, though, that taste is a personal thing. And after taste-testing this chili made to the formula, I thought it might suit me better with a few mods of my own. I tripled the chili powder to 1 tablespoon, added 1/2 tsp cumin, and a pinch each of cinnamon and allspice. For a little more acid, to brighten the flavor just a bit, and some extra spice as well, I added a can of Ro-Tel tomatoes. It was still just a little thicker than I prefer, so in went 1/4 cup or so of vegetable stock (in keeping with the vegetarian label, though I'm no vegetarian). In my opinion, my initial 3 stars went to 4 stars. I'm still wondering about the 3 garlic cloves AND ALSO garlic powder. Next time I'd probably just mince another couple of cloves. Quick and easy, inexpensive and filling! Tastes good, too!

Reviewed On: Nov. 5, 2008