Marrow: poor man's foie gras

I realize that we are still in the middle of an economic crisis, and some of us just don't have the extra change to shell out on a nice, succulent lobe of duck liver. I have just the solution to ease your woes. Ladies and gentlemen, it really doesn't get any simpler than this.

Step 1: get off of your butt and take a hike to your local supermarket (you're going to need the exercise to work off the calories).

Step 2: March back to the meat department and pick out a nice package of beef marrow bones (the longer the better).

Step 3: pick up a bunch of green onion and a large baguette

Step 4: pay for your groceries and hurry home. You are about to eat possibly the best thing you have ever tasted.

There are other recipes for roasted bone marrow on the internet, but I find the simpler, the better. This is especially good for those of you who are short on time but would like to indulge in something extra delicious. For those of you who are cringing at the thought of eating bone marrow, you have no idea what you are missing. I now know exactly what Thoreau was referring to in Walden, when he wrote about, "...suck(ing) the marrow out of life."

The bright side...Bone marrow is highly nutritious and contains several vital nutrients which are beneficial for growth and development. It is high in protein, vitamin B, calcium, magnesium and zinc. The down side...Bone marrow should be a treat savored occasionally. Though rich in vitamin content, it is also is high in fat content and may not be suitable for those with high cholesterol. I like my marrow with sliced green onion, but a common serving suggestion is a parsley salad. You can take your pick. Also, if you have access to a breadmaker, I highly recommend baking your own bread. If not, a "take and bake" baguette from your grocer will do. This snack is cheaper than anything you can buy and very quickly prepared.

12 beef marrow bones (long ones work better--about 3 inches each)

1/2 bunch green onion (diced)

freshly ground black pepper and coarse ground sea salt (to taste)

one large baguette

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place marrow bones in an iron skillet or foil-lined casserole dish. Roast for approximately 30 minutes. Depending on the strength of your oven, the cooking time could be slightly more or less. The marrow should be slightly separating from the bone. Remove from heat and place your baguette in the oven and remove when just golden brown, approximately 10 minutes. Slice baguette and spread marrow on the slice of bread. Season with salt and pepper. Top with green onion. Prepare yourself for ultimate bliss.

serves 4 as an appetizer

Suggested wine pairing: 2006 Napa Cellars Zinfandel or if you are on a strict budget, Rosenblum Zinfandel Vintner's Cuvee XXXI

It is worth noting that these bones are virtually indestructible without the use of high tech machinery and are thus suitable as a treat for your four-legged friends. To avoid a mess, I suggest rewarding your dog outdoors.