Where’s the Pork?

We were suspicious of the package of meatless chorizo that arrived at the office for us to sample. There was the name, for one thing: Soyrizo. Almost as bad as Toffuti. What is it about soy that inspires such goofiness?

We know the Chinese can make delicious food from tofu mock goose and duck, but we were sure we would hate the taste of this seasoned faux pork. We were wrong. Somehow, Frieda’s has been able to nearly match the flavor--and, more impressive, the texture--of the Mexican sausage. Note that the style of Frieda’s Soyrizo is meant to emulate that of the crumbly brick-red Mexican-style sausage often cooked outside of its casing, not the thinner Spanish-style chorizo, which is often served sliced. Non-vegetarians who are watching their cholesterol might also want to try the sausage, which works especially well in chilaquiles, in layered bean dips and as an add-in to scrambled eggs.

12-ounce packages about $3.50 at supermarkets or by mail order, (800) 241-1771 (7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST.)

The Rice Stuff

Rice paper napkins are often demure, delicate things. Not these napkins, which add a bright spot of color to table settings or cocktail buffets.

About $5 for package of 15 at Gibson’s in Fountain Valley and Pottery Shack in Laguna Beach. Available in 14-inch luncheon size and 9-inch cocktail size.

Old World

After World War II, Seymour Mann went into business making antique dinnerware reproductions with Vincent Lipper; the two were most famous for their Blue Danube reproductions. The Seymour Mann company continues today, and its newest pattern is this blue and yellow design, which we’re told has no name but looks great in these bowls.

$10 to $20 at Southern California gift shops, including Little Company of Mary Hospital gift shop, Torrance, and Chatsworth Florist, Chatsworth.

Blue Period

French picnic scenes in blue and white are depicted on these flatware pieces, but they look just as good indoors.

$13 to $17 per piece at Upstairs at Diamond, Diamond Foam and Fabric, Los Angeles.