When you really need to grind pepper, you bring in power tools. Like your drill: http://lifehacker.com/5918291/attach-a-cordless-drill-to-your-pe...

Pair grapes with asparagus? Sure: http://socialkitchenblog.com/2012/06/07/asparagus-tarts-with-roa... What about vinegar in cocktails? Why not: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/13/dining/seasonal-cocktails-dete...

Online food pairing map: http://www.foodpairing.com/ (iPad app)

Finally, a canning book that gets interesting: Canning for a New Generation

Sous-vide, portably, with any pot, with this $300 gadget : http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/06/portable-sous-vide-gadget/ , kickstarter here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/nomiku/nomiku-bring-sous-vid...