116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Tom Slepicka
correspondent
Latest Articles by Tom Slepicka
Recipes Feb. 5, 2026 5:00 am3d ago
There is nothing quite like the golden, warm aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen to make a house feel like a home.
Recipes Jan. 7, 2026 6:00 am32d ago
As we settle into the chill of winter, chef Tom Slepicka finds himself craving meals that are not only comforting but also restorative. This Garlic Soup is his go-to recipe when he needs something that feels indulgent yet is packed with health benefits.
Food & Drink Dec. 28, 2025 5:30 am42d ago
To cut through the sweetness of the holidays, you need something golden, garlicky and deeply satisfying. For Tom Slepicka, the ultimate winter comfort — and the perfect savory companion to a holiday afternoon — is the bramborák, or Czech potato pancake.
Recipes Dec. 9, 2025 5:30 am61d ago
At its heart, Vánočka is a rich, sweet, egg-based yeast bread. The name itself is derived from the Czech word for Christmas, "Vánoce," marking it as the definitive pastry of the holiday season.
Recipes Nov. 20, 2025 6:00 am80d ago
If you're looking for a standout cookie that is not only fun and easy to make but a fantastic timesaver, look no further than the delightful Czech Marokánky, or Moroccan Cookies.
Recipes Nov. 6, 2025 6:30 am94d ago
Imagine serving a golden, knotted roll fresh from your oven, its shape hinting at the intricate history of European baking. This recipe will show you how to master the surprisingly simple one-strand braid, transforming everyday flour and milk into a centerpiece of Central European culinary heritage.
Food & Drink Oct. 23, 2025 7:30 am108d ago
It’s that time of year to crave something warm and comforting that doesn't take all day to make. We're all looking for those go-to recipes that are simple enough for a weeknight but still feel like a real treat. This creamy cauliflower soup is exactly that kind of meal.
Recipes Oct. 15, 2025 1:00 pm115d ago
It's a familiar weeknight dilemma: you want a delicious pepperoni pizza, and the convenience of takeout is calling your name. But before you pick up the phone, consider this: you can craft a fresher, tastier and more affordable pan pizza in your own kitchen in just 60 minutes from start to finish.
Food & Drink Sep. 26, 2025 6:30 am135d ago
At its heart, this delightful apple bread pudding is a rustic and soulful dish built upon two important layers: juicy, spiced apples and bread slices soaked in a rich custard. These elements create the classic taste that has been cherished for generations.
Food & Drink Sep. 9, 2025 5:00 am152d ago
September has arrived, and as colder days loom on the horizon, there's a natural desire for warm, comforting and hearty dishes. Look no further than this recipe for Frankfurter Soup, also known as “Frankfurtská Polévka” in the Czech Republic, where this recipe originated.
Recipes Aug. 20, 2025 7:30 am172d ago
Imagine the electrifying, tangy heat of classic Buffalo wings; now picture it in a hearty, satisfying steak that’s completely plant-based. That’s the magic of this Buffalo Cauliflower recipe. You won’t be just making a meatless alternative; you will create a show-stopping main course.
Recipes Aug. 8, 2025 7:00 am184d ago
In a world of complicated recipes and expensive shortcuts, some dishes stand out for their elegant simplicity and sheer reliability. This Lemon and Garlic Chicken is one of those heroes.
Recipes Jul. 24, 2025 6:30 am199d ago
By using canned tuna, a cost-efficient and accessible ingredient, you can create a dish that is both delicious and economical. These versatile tuna cakes can be served as an appetizer with tartar sauce or as a main dish with your favorite side, offering a satisfying meal any way you plate them. The best part is that they are easy and fast to make.
Recipes Jul. 10, 2025 8:00 am213d ago
Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue or just need a quick and refreshing weeknight dinner, this recipe is your ticket to a perfect summer meal. This dish is especially fitting for this time of year when tomatoes and lettuce are in season.
Recipes Jun. 19, 2025 11:00 am234d ago
While fish isn't always the first choice for many in the Midwest, it is a very nutritious and delicate ingredient. Salmon is undeniably a highly favored choice, with its blackened preparation being particularly popular in the United States.

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