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The secret ingredient to this summer squash stew is half-and-half steeped with a potent mixture of fragrant spices and fresh herbs.

Summer Squash and Corn Stew

6 black peppercorns
6 coriander seeds
6 whole cloves
4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided use
1 jalapeño chile, seeded and sliced into sixths (see note)
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon coarsely chopped mint leaves
1 cup half-and-half
1/2 pound summer squash
1/4 pound crookneck squash
1/2 pound zucchini
2 ears corn, shucked
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 tomato, seeded and chopped

1. Bruise peppercorns, coriander seeds and cloves with a mortar and pestle and add, along with half the cilantro, half the jalapeño, cinnamon stick and mint, to the half and half. Gradually bring to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and let steep while prepping the vegetables.
2. Cut summer squash and crookneck squash into rounds 1/2 inch thick. Quarter zucchini lengthwise and then cut quarters into 1/2 inch chunks. Cut corn kernels off cobs. Combine all in a large bowl and set aside.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and when hot, but not smoking, add onion. Sauté for 2 minutes. Add reserved vegetables, remaining jalapeño and salt. Continue to sauté for 5 more minutes. Pour the half-and-half directly into pan through a strainer and add tomato. Simmer for several minutes, until sauce has reduced a little and squash are tender. Garnish with remaining cilantro and serve.

Makes 4 servings.

Note: Working with jalapeños or other chiles: Capsaicin is the ingredient in chiles that causes the burning sensation associated with fresh peppers. It's a good idea to use rubber gloves when handling fresh chiles. (Disposable surgical gloves, available at most drugstores, work best for this.) If you choose not to use gloves, be extremely careful not to touch any part of your body, especially your eyes. After you've finished handling the chiles, wash your knife and cutting board with hot soapy water to ensure that there is no carry-over to other foods that may come in contact with the peppers.