What's the country reading today food-wise? Here's a roundup of some of the food-related stories from other newspapers, many of which print their food sections mid-week. And remember, even if you don't actually buy papers these days (or not; this paper is free), it's where most of your content comes from. Surf away. Just remember that spilling your macchiato over your keyboard is a lot more expensive than spilling it across newsprint.

In the Los Angeles Times, 1 1/2 stars for Short Order; a consideration of dashi, the Japanese broth; and the issue of cell phone use in restaurants.

At The New York Times, Eric Asimov looks at natural wines; Pete Wells reviews Parm; and — just in time for the next GOP debates — a consideration of Mormon cuisine (!).

Chinese cuisine at home, in time for the Chinese New Year; and greater Boston's best new restaurants, at The Boston Globe.

At the Chicago Sun-Times, beginning with stock; and three local chefs lose weight on the new show Fat Chef.

Sushi standards and the American way, at The Washington Post.

At the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the considerable joys of cooking short ribs.

New Orleans area schools test healthy snack vending machines, at the Times-Picayune.

Taming collard greens; and 6 essentials to make you a better cook, at Chicago Tribune.

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