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I love to EAT, TRAVEL,COOK, always searching for foods, restaurants, recipes, a LEVEL ABOVE ordinary fare - SATORI (Japanese word for AHA!) foods . Find my recipes and those I find, restaurants reviews from all over, posted travels, highlights from interesting TV shows (Travel Channel, Food Channel etc).
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Showing posts with label Restaurant Finds. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Restaurant Finds. Show all posts

Sunday, November 15, 2009

New Theater has top notch theater and food

New Theatre Restaurant on Urbanspoon

New Theater has top notch theater and acting with food to match. There is not a bad seat in the house even near the top. The plays are excellent (Jamie Farr from Mash comes at least once a year) and with meals make a great deal. The meals vary but they are always above the regular fare from appetizers to entrees. One trip might be enough for most but it is all you eat until the grub is “no more”. But even myself 2.5 trips satisfied even my appetite. I can’t remember what I had (it was a couple years ago) but there is almost always various delectable versions of pasta , chicken, beef, fish, appetizers, sides (mash potatoes, rice etc) desserts. Usually 1 or 2 the entrees give a great choice. The food is never boring and either are the plays. I remember the chicken was absolutely delicious either roasted with a cream sauce.
It’s a great night for food and fun. I love the food, the plays and more.
Just wish we could go more.

(Have you tried New Theater? How you liked the food and plays?)

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Dickey's Barbecue has tasty BBQ but watch how much they place on your entree

Dickey's Barbecue Pit on Urbanspoon

I saw that this place was opening near the Costco and thought it might possibly be a good BBQ place to try. So I planned on coming out during its opening day (Nov. 7)on a balmy day. My plan was to try the BBQ brisket and see how it would fare. I selected the big "bunned" special priced sandwich and chose brisket. I love brisket and wanted it test it out against all that I have tried while judging on the bbq circuit . After seeing how much beef was put on my sandwich, (it looked quite small bit of meat- like a big half dollar), I was not pleased even for this "special". I asked the cutter “to put more meat on it “. I mean why start out a business and be stingy about the meat, which would be one of the signature entrees on the menu? He did so. He did ask if “I wanted the (BBQ) sauce? “(in these parts most want sauce on their meat but it was nice to ask anyway). I said “yes” and a tablespoon of sauce (not very thick) was ladled on to the top. I found it odd that a plain piece of white onion was on the meat (which I took off).
There were some people in the dining area but not as many as I expected. The menu is extensive: sides , kids meals, meat plates, sandwiches, make your combo, salads and takeouts. But I was taking mine "take out" (which I told them first when they asked). I was only going for the meat this time so I did not test the sides etc.
I should have asked for more sauce (on the side) as there was little “saucey taste” soaked into the meat. But it had a very good smokey flavor. So maybe “ little sauce” was a good idea (for once). The consistency was a little chewy but not "melt in your mouth". The sandwich bun had tiny yellow seeds and the bun had a real good consistency, not too dense. The meat was almost “all meat” with little fat or gristle so I was happy about that. So all in all, the BBQ was good but not the best I ever tasted. (Maybe it was laying around too long which is should have had some moist juice to keep it more moist?
I enjoyed the beef, flavor and sandwich. If and when I go back, I need to try the sauce , turkey and sides So try the beef ( pork etc) but make sure you notice how much of the beef comes with the meal. “Where’s the beef, pork or etc “ is important!

Post your feedback
How do you like your brisket? soft chewy or ?

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Battle Pheasant on Iron Chef America

I’ve never eaten pheasant. However I learned about this bird and its preparations b watching the two chefs battled to show off the various ways pheasant could be prepared. It was quite an eye full seeing Battle Pheasant through Morrimoto vs Virant battle. Virant has his place in Chicago which is named Vie.

Vie on Urbanspoon

He is quite an accomplished chef
http://www.vierestaurant.com/chef.html

and focused on American cuisine with his menu
http://www.vierestaurant.com/menu.html

Morimito had dishes that included pheasant tenderloin, pheasant dumplings with tomato cream with wasabi, pheasant rice balls and soup and pheasant lettuce wraps.

Virant countered with smoked pheasant with blackberry; pheasant gnocchi; pheasant scotch eggs; pheasant roasted livers; pheasant consome and gremolata.

I thought the battle would be close. I picked Morimoto by +2. He won by +1 so I was within my range and on the winning side.

taste : Virant had 26 to 25 points
plating : Morrimoto had 13 to 11
originality: tied 13 to 13

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Granite City varies it's menu

Granite City Food & Brewery on Urbanspoon
Seems like the menu has broadened into different variations since I first came to Granite City in Olathe . Now there are themed entrees which include a more varies menu (prices ranging from $3.99 to $23.59).There are more varied cuisine in the areas of Oriental, Vegetarian, Cajun, Tex-Mex, sandwiches, kid's menu, , fish, specialty lunches , pasta, pork, beef within 9 appetizers, 8 salads, 5 burgers, flat breads (4), small plate (5), special brews (5 also says with meal compliments), Lunch (9) Sandwiches (11) , soups (8) , Luncheon (14) , Pastas (5), Signature selections (18), Kids Menu (6), desserts (6).
I was there for a presentation luncheon and actually got a little chilly in the small area (bring a sweater or jacket) until the place finally warmed up. I had tried one of their steaks before and it was awesome. This time I tried the chicken Caribbean. The chicken was moist but did not have a lot of tropical flavor. Perhaps the chef thought that by just placing a not so inspiring red onion melange on top (it was pretty disgusting) would make it tropical which is didn't. The steamed broccoli was awesome though (how many times have I ever said that?). We might come here sometime for happy hour sometime and try some of their pizzas and other possibilities with happy hour (have to pay once in a lifetime fee though of $10 unless you pay on Monday - then $5).I might try this but I wish the appetizer section and happy hour possibilities were better prices (many places have 1/2 priced instead of $2 off or something else).

Blanc Burgers in Kansas City is excellent for the price

Blanc Burgers + Bottles (Leawood) on Urbanspoon
Hip burger joints that focus on pricey specialty burgers are the rage in Kansas City and elsewhere and are taking their place with the franchise places that are trying to push their angus beef burgers. Blanc however has pricier but better crafted burgers (usingh blend of tenderloin, ribeye and kansas city srip steak blended for higher price patties coming in a variety of 12 mouth watering varieties. There are salads and starters (5), sides for a la cart (4) , quick fix menu (burger of choice and salad or side), 12 varieties of burger (including beef, bison, pork, turkey, mahi mahi, lentil, portabella. There are also milkshakes. My wife got a classic (beef , cheddar, lettuce, tomato , red onion, grilled onion, mustard , ketchup, pickles on sesame seed bun.When I go I will get the Kobe Beef, Bison burger (sounds good -pepperjack cheese, peppadew pepper jam, butter lettuce, onion, tomato, and mayo), the inside out (it is really difficult to choose). She and her friends loved the fries too. It's definitely a good burger place for once in awhile, the price and what you get.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Another Heavy Hitter-Mexican restaurant in town in around KC

There are quite a few Mexican restaurants in town. Apparently there is still more room. Olathe now is a little more crowded, to battle the other heavy hitters in town. This mini chain now has moved into the place across from Golden Corral taking the place of a Rib and Chicken joint that never did any business ( I felt so sorry for the owner).
Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
(913) 829-5749
Olathe
13415 Black Bob Road
Olathe, KS 66062
But now this mini chain Frontera , has moved now into that former restaurant and serves a full bar, catering, and has wifi. The place has a nice ambiance with a wide open feel to the place. I sampled the menu from the Overland Park one and my wife and I both liked the entree. Several chimichanga (which I love) options highlight the menu (pork, beef, steak, chicken, veggie) along with burritos, quesadillas, lunch sized meal options and more so I will have to come back here and try more items.
I don't usually like mini chains as the food can vary from each one and if you "hit the wrong one " you may not like it as much or as well. It will be interesting how this place, Mi Ranchito, Chapala, Jose Pepper duke it out now that there are 4 great Mexican places in town along with the other good ones in Olathe (that we have tried). Time will tell.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Sarasoto's Fat Sandy and more

Man vs Food is a real "hoot of a program". Adam , the host, is not only funny he loves to eat and a lot. He always picked great 2 restaurants to try and then 1 for a great challenge. Here is a run down of season 2.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Man_v._Food_%28season_2%29

sarasota

The Fat Sandy: chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, two cheeseburgers, and fried potato wedges, slathered in macaroni and cheese. Says Adam Richman, "It's like moving a baby, you have to support the head." Then the Super Fat Daddy: six cheeseburgers, french fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, a pound of Philly steak, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and seventeen slices of cheese, with a layer of cheddar cheese sauce for good measure.

he lost
watch at
http://www.eatmedaily.com/2009/09/epic-sandwiches-at-munchies-420-cafe-in-sarasota-florida-from-man-v-food-video/

Monday, October 19, 2009

Reading about Eight Great Ways to Be a Great Restaurant Customer

I am usually a good customer where we go. I usually don’t ask them to take a plate back unless something is really wrong. I found this article interesting.
Eight Great Ways to Be a Great Restaurant Customer
by Francis Lam
http://www.gourmet.com/food/2008/08/the-recipe-fricassee-hen-with-vadouvan

Chickpea Fries Recipe from great restaurant Ubuntu

I've got to try these fries.
Chickpea Fries
Recipe created by Jeremy and Deanie Fox

Chickpea Fries
Photo: Coral von Zumwalt
Fries get reinvented with chickpea flour (the protein! the crunch!), and the dipping sauce is no ordinary side. Romesco, a zesty Spanish sauce, is a mixture of roasted red peppers, garlic, paprika, and more.

Try them also with "Carta da Musica" Flatbread with Arugula and Truffled Pecorino.

This recipe is from Ubuntu's Garden-Fresh Menu.

Ingredients:
Serves 4

* 2 1/2 cups chickpea flour , plus more for dusting
* 1 cup cornmeal
* 2 cloves garlic , finely grated
* 3 Tbsp. kosher salt , plus more to taste
* 1/4 cup chopped parsley
* 1 Tbsp. chopped rosemary
* Zest of 2 lemons
* Vegetable oil , for frying
* Romesco , for serving (for recipe, see Romesco sauce below)

In a stainless steel pot over high heat, combine chickpea flour, cornmeal, 7 cups of cold water, garlic, and salt. Whisk gently to prevent sticking on the bottom; over-whisking will cause the final product to "soufflé" and fall.

Once the mixture begins to thicken and bubble (after about 3 to 4 minutes), reduce heat to medium and switch to a rubber spatula. Add remaining ingredients except oil, stir to combine, and continue stirring to prevent sticking. When mixture pulls from the sides of the pot like a dough (after about 6 to 8 minutes), transfer it to a rimmed sheet pan lined with nonstick aluminum foil. Spread mixture out evenly, cover with a sheet of plastic wrap, and top with another sheet pan. Refrigerate for 4 hours until completely cold and set.

Carefully remove mixture from pan by gently lifting the bottom layer of aluminum foil onto a cutting board. Remove plastic wrap, then cut into "fries" about 3 inches long.

Heat oil in a large pot until it reaches 375° on a deep-fat thermometer. Toss fries lightly in additional cornmeal, and deep-fry them in small batches until crispy, about 3 minutes. Remove and set on paper towels. Sprinkle with kosher salt to taste and serve with romesco on the side.


More info on Jeremy Fox
http://www.foodandwine.com/bestnewchefs/?year=2008&chef=1722DBFF-ED7F-49A4-BF7541BECABC3F66



Grilled Figs with Burrata and Romesco Toast
Recipe created by Jeremy Fox

Grilled Figs with Burrata and Romesco Toast
Photo: Coral von Zumwalt
Crusty, romesco-smeared toast pairs well with grilled figs and ultra-creamy burrata cheese.

This recipe from Ubuntu's Garden-Fresh Menu yields enough romesco to also use as a dipping sauce for the Chickpea Fries, and if you are making the Roasted Pepper Consommé with Okra and Almonds, save the peppers to use here in preparing the romesco.

Ingredients:
Serves 4

* 1/2 cup toasted unsalted almonds
* 2 Tbsp. toasted hazelnuts
* 16 roasted red peppers
* 3 cloves garlic , peeled and finely grated
* 5 Tbsp. olive oil , plus more for grilling
* 2 tsp. smoked paprika
* 2 Tbsp. sherry vinegar
* 3/4 tsp. salt

Note: If you cannot find burrata, fresh mozzarella is also fine to use.

Prepare a gas grill or grill pan, then make romesco sauce: In a food processor, chop almonds and hazelnuts. Add peppers, garlic, and olive oil; process until combined. Mix in paprika, vinegar, and salt. Set aside.

Brush bread with olive oil and grill, flipping once, 2 to 3 minutes per side.
put sauce on

**

Pea Consommé with Mint

* Recipe by Jeremy Fox

Rate & Review
(23 people have added this recipe to their favorites.)

The Good News This delicate broth is full of vitamin C, thanks to the pea pods Jeremy Fox simmers. (Snow peas are just as delicious and easier to find.) He tops the consommé with shards of white chocolate because he likes the way it brings out the peas’ sweetness while adding only a little fat.
Pea Consommé with Mint

* Recipe by Jeremy Fox

(23 people have added this recipe to their favorites.)
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Pea Consommé with Mint

* Recipe by Jeremy Fox

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© Tina Rupp
Pea Consommé with Mint

* ACTIVE: 25 MIN
* TOTAL TIME: 2 HRS 25 MIN
* SERVINGS: 4

* Healthy
* Make-Ahead
* Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds English peas in the pod, peas shelled and pods reserved, or 1 pound snow peas plus one 9-ounce box frozen peas, thawed
2. 1 garlic clove, smashed
3. 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
4. 1/3 cup small mint leaves
5. 1 quart water
6. 2 teaspoons Champagne vinegar
7. 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
8. Salt
9. 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
10. 2 tablespoons roasted macadamia nuts, chopped
11. 2 tablespoons chopped white chocolate
12. 1/2 cup pea shoots


Directions

1. In a 12-inch piece of cheesecloth, wrap the pea pods or snow peas with the garlic, shallot and 1 tablespoon of the mint leaves into a flat bundle; tie with kitchen twine. In a large saucepan, cover the bundle with the water and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over very low heat for 2 hours.
2. Strain the consommé into a bowl, pressing on the bundle. Return the consommé to the saucepan. Add the peas, vinegar and lemon juice and season with salt. Cover and reheat gently. Ladle the consommé into bowls and drizzle with the olive oil. Garnish with the nuts, white chocolate, pea shoots and the remaining mint leaves; serve

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Paradise India is heavenly

Paradise India on Urbanspoon
We love Thai and Indian food and I have eaten at such places all over the US and in the Kansas City area. We ate here at the buffet when it first opened and instantly proclaimed it one really liked. Since then we brought a big group of my food club group and they loved it too. We’ve eaten at several Indian places in KC (Indian Palace, Kormu Sutru and others which have come and gone or still remain). This is one of our top three ( we don’t care for Rucci). These 3 are always great but this place offers a little more vegetarian and slightly different flavors then the other places we like to give a hint of difference.
The grilled meats are nicely done, the Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken have great flavor. The crunchy vegetable pakoras and naan bread , the goat dishes are nicely done and have the right flavors.
We skip the "salad bar," items. I skip the chai as it goes through me like a “sieve” but my wife and others like it along with mango lassi ( which I love and is fine). The orange hued tandoori chicken and nicely browned chickpea pakoras are always good as well as the biryani rice peppered lamb.
I love the condiments but even I don’t try the hot pickle relish made with mustard, chili, fenugreek and more because it has a nasty type of heat and taste for my liking. The dark tamarind brown black tangy lemony sauce is always good and I love it as well as the minty green and other condiments. That is what I like about this and other Asian buffets, you pick what you want to choose and explore along the way. What could be better.One time then had spinach lamb or chicken saag (which my wife loves) and she was in heaven even more.
The rice pudding always finishes off our meals and it is glorious and silky.
The wait staff is most hospitable and cordial and it has fine quiet atmosphere.

Free State Brewing Co= Good grub in this pub

"
Free State Brewing Co on Urbanspoon
Good grub in this pub. Really likes it . We have been here several times. While I have never had beer here, I know the food is good. Everything is consistently good and nicely priced. Salads, entrees and interesting assortment of items make for a nice menu and good eats. It does however get real noisy and busy at night however.

Restaurant Finds : Boling's dim sum

Bo Ling's on Urbanspoon

We came here to this small city chain restaurant for dim sum as my stepson wanted for us to try it. It was very crowded as dim sum here is popular on Sunday. We tried some of the dumplings and other dishes. While good I did not think anything was really outstanding in my mind. Dim Sum can get get pretty pricey though when each dish is added up. Next time I would rather focus on an entree and try them instead.

Friday, October 16, 2009

I took my wife here on our firs date- food is superb

Jerusalem Cafe on Urbanspoon

This place is special for us as it was the first place I took my wife after the Nelson Arts Gallery some 15 years ago. The food is consistently good and the atmosphere is busy but quiet enough to listen to each other. I love the lamb inside flaky phyllo crust but ever time we have come the food has been superb.

Restaurants I hope to try someday (RIHTTS) : not Wai Wai as it is part of the Thai place chain

If this place is one of the "Thai place local chain" restaurants I most likely will not try it but we shall see.
Wai-Wai Thai Place Express on Urbanspoon

Another new one I need to try for sure is this one which seems very new.
La Bodega, KC’s first authentic Spanish tapas bar, serves up one fantastic happy hour. I've peeked inside but have never been here though.
50 percent off tapas, sangria, wines by the glass, well drinks, draft beer and domestic bottles. More >>
From 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, the restaurant offers half-price tapas and drink specials, including sangria by the pitcher or glass, wines by the glass, cervezas and premium well drinks. La Bodega also serves outside on its lovely sidewalk. Inside and out, the music is surprisingly good; one recent evening, we heard a mix that included Devo, Pet Shop Boys, Bowie, the Clash and the Cure.

* Best Of 2009: Best Happy Hour
* Best Of 2005: Best Martini
* Best Of 2005: Best Small Plates
* Best Of 2001: Best Tapas
The Tapas is great along with the best Mexican food in Kansas City I hear. Sangria seems good too.

Restaurants I hope to try someday (RIHTTS): One Bite Japanese Grill

One Bite Japanese Grill on Urbanspoon

I don't know how we missed One Bite Japanese Grill rated by
The Pitch magazine Best of 2007. However many entrees and appetizers look so good.
It is a must for us in the near future and then I will write a full review

One Bite Japanese Grill
Overland Park
8602 W 133rd St
Overland Park, KS 66213
(913) 897-9388
www.onebitegrill.com

paper-thin fried carrot chips that arrive before every meal like tortilla chips at a Mexican restaurant. "It's kind of a neighborhood hangout — with dumplings,

okonomi-yaki, ordering it as an appetizer instead of an entrée.
The yaki like a "Japanese pizza," or a fried flapjack made from a light batter, with shredded cabbage and various other ingredients, all topped with a malty Worcestershire-style sauce, more creamy mayo sauce.
"Mix Special" combination of vegetables, meat and seafood is good to others say

yaki is good

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Grinders has lot's to offer much to offer at good prices

Grinders on Urbanspoon

I was here with a friend after a movie visit. This place is very interesting with different kinds of grinders, pizza and more. Very funky sort of place with an interesting menu and lots to offer for lunch and dinner. I had a meatball grinder which was quite good.
Someday I will be back to try other parts of the menu. Maybe the insanely hot chicken wings on Wed Half-price Death Wings and $12 Bucket-O-Beer (domestics only). This also might make a good effort for Travel Channel's Man Vs. Food.

http://www.grinderspizza.com/index.php?/grinders/menu/

Restaurant Finds : Good noodle and dumbling fare

My wife went here with her pals and really liked this place and the dumplings. She then brought back some of the different Chinese or Asian buffets if you have tried them). Supposedly Iron Chef Morimoto ate here one and it true (it was on their ads) then that just adds to the goodness of their dumplings. Can't say much as she was there one and I sampled those dumplings but I would give it try to find out more . You betcha!

Blue Koi on Urbanspoon

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Recipe Finds: Chef Jeremy Fox, his Zulu named restaurant called Ubuntu

Ubuntu on Urbanspoon

I love waking up to Wednesday and Thursday mornings, and raiding the Kansas City recipes/ food/ chef/ restaurant review sections. Finding any one of these four for my cuisine oriented brain / mouth excitement is rare but it does happen. Finding all four in one posting is even more rare but when it does come I am overjoyed for several reasons. There is something refreshing for me in finding new and vibrant information from newspapers that is fresh and bold and gives me better insight into learning and using the internet for further means and getting my mind going as well. Today was one such day about Chef Jeremy Fox, his Zulu named restaurant called Ubuntu and much more.

This chef is fast becoming an Epicurean rock star for his creative vegetable entrees and dishes. Jeremy recently was named a “Best New Chef” 2008 by Food & Wine magazine and a “Rising Star” by the San Francisco Chronicle. Originally trained at the prestigious Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, S.C., he began working in his first kitchen at the five-star restaurant Anson in Charleston, SC.

It is interesting to note that meals here are more about “celebrating what comes from the gardens “( what shows up at the door and the relationships with Napa area farms)”. The chef and restaurant don’t just focus on offering a philosophy at Ubuntu of “no meat”. This intent also includes the focus even more inventive and creative and also why the article, the chef, the restaurant and the recipes intrigued me even more. Digging finally further, I found more about the name for the restaurant and the previous information made sense indeed.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubuntu_(philosophy)

“Ubuntu is an ethic or humanist philosophy focusing on people's allegiances and relations with each other. The word has its origin in the Bantu languages of southern Africa. Ubuntu is seen as a classical African concept.[1] The Ubuntu operating system was named for this principle. “

http://www.ubuntunapa.com/media.html

It may be a long time or if I ever can if ever visit this place and the chef. What makes this article so engaging is all that article talks about. There is always more to find, research and find new recipes which I want to try myself and share on my blog. And this article, found more and more to find, research and try.

Here is more that I found about recipes, restaurant, special spices that made this reading an adventure in itself.

When I try these meals, spices etc, I will let you know. Meanwhile if you try the restaurant, the spice, the meals before I can, please let me know and I will give you full credit on the blog.

Enjoy more below :)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27183606/ns/today_food_and_wine-today_food_recipe/

reviews by others of this place and recipes ( one I tried myself )below

http://www.herbivoracious.com/2009/07/ubuntu-restaurant-napa-ca-restaurant-review.html

http://www.foodnut.com/402/ubuntu-restaurant-review-napa/

http://foodsnobblog.wordpress.com/2009/04/12/ubuntu-napa/

http://singleguychef.blogspot.com/2008/09/dish-on-dining-ubuntu-restaurant-yoga.html

Ubuntu Napa
1140 Main Street
Napa, CA 94558
707.251.5656
httP://www.ubuntunapa.com


Ubuntu - great as reported
great other insights into much more (what others ate too)
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/647168

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/629014

In particular, the focus was how inventive vegetarian dishes can be with this chef. And how the articles are portrayed and what is expounded upon is fimanal. One in particular involved a special dish using cauliflower. However the dish was not shown but I found on the internet with the recipe and more.

And now for some of the great recipes. I had to do a little extra digging for this recipe which was proclaimed in the article but was not listed. Glad I did because I need to find a way to make it sometimes soon and report back what we think about this prodigious dish.

Garden-fresh cauliflower in cast iron
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27183606/ns/today_food_and_wine-today_food_recipe/

The dish also used a spice I had never heard of before which made such a recipe even more exciting. This recipe calls for “Vadouvan” , (http://www.vadouvan.com/ ), a French spice blend which is an interpretation of Indian curry ( find at www.le-sanctuaire.com).

However I found another source to make it myself that I also wanted to share with you all.

( I made this dish below and made the spice myself. I did not know what to think. I came out great. The spice sauce on the cauliflower is very addictive. You can be sure I will try it again and use the condiment on other foods.)



Vadouvan (Indian Spice Blend)
Makes about 3 cups

* Active time:45 min
* Start to finish:3 hr

September 2008
There are many versions of vadouvan, but we like the one that Grimes came up with, starting with a formula by chef Inaki Aizpitarte, of Le Chateaubriand, and roasting it for an exotic meatiness. Make one big batch and keep it in the freezer for weeks—we’re sure you’ll be tossing it into all kinds of dishes.

Learn the story behind this dish in our series The Recipe.
http://www.gourmet.com/food/2008/08/the-recipe-fricassee-hen-with-vadouvan

* 2 lb onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 lb shallots, halved
* 12 garlic cloves, peeled
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
* 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh curry leaves (optional)
* 1 tablespoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
* 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds
* 3/4 teaspoon turmeric
* 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon hot red-pepper flakes
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

*
Equipment:
an electric coffee/spice grinder or a mortar and pestle

*
Preheat oven to 350ºF with rack in middle.
*
Pulse onions in 3 batches in a food processor until very coarsely chopped (there may be a few large pieces remaining), transferring to a bowl. Repeat with shallots, then garlic.
*
Heat oil in a deep 12-inch heavy nonstick skillet over high heat until it shimmers, then sauté onions, shallots, and garlic (stir often) until golden and browned in spots, 25 to 30 minutes.
*
Grind fenugreek seeds in grinder or with mortar and pestle. Add to onion mixture along with remaining ingredients, 1 Tbsp salt, and 1 tsp pepper and stir until combined.
*
Transfer to a parchment-paper-lined large 4-sided sheet pan and spread as thinly and evenly as possible. Bake, stirring occasionally with a skewer to separate onions, until well browned and barely moist, 1 to 1 1/4 hours.

Cooks’ notes:

* Vadouvan keeps in the refrigerator 1 month (cool before covering) or in the freezer 6 months.
* We’ve also got a web-exclusive recipe using the leftover

**

I did try this recipe by making the spice blend myself. This recipe took awhile to make but well worth it. The spice with the C a u l i f l o w e r was rather addictive. The only thing I might do is see if I can find the blend in an Indian store to see how good it was compared to my blend. I also would blanch the veg just slightly before dusting with the condiment.

C a u l i f l o w e r i n a c a s t - i r o n p o t i s s e r v e d a t U b u n t u f o r $ 1 3 . T h i s r e c i p e m a k e s f o u r r e s t a u r a n t s e r v i n g s .

C a u l i f l o w e r i n a c a s t - i r o n p o t
J e r e m y F o x , e x e c u t i v e c h e f o f U b u n t u

S e r v e s 4

I N G R E D I E N T S

" 2 h e a d s c a u l i f l o w e r
" 2 t a b l e s p o o n s e x t r a - v i r g i n o l i v e o i l
" 1 c u p w h o l e m i l k
" 1 / 4 p o u n d b u t t e r
" 2 t a b l e s p o o n s v a d o u v a n ( f r o m w w w . l e - s a n c t u a i r e . c o m )
" 1 t e a s p o o n I t a l i a n p a r s l e y
" D a y - o l d b r e a d f o r t o a s t i n g
" F i n e s e a s a l t t o t a s t e

R e c i p e c o n t i n u e s b e l o w !ì a d v e r t i s e m e n t

D I R E C T I O N S

S t e a l T h i s R e c i p e Æ S t e p b y S t e p I n s t r u c t i o n s :
S l i c e t h e c a u l i f l o w e r a b o u t 1 / 8 o f a n i n c h t h i c k . S e a s o n 1 a n d º o f c a u l i f l o w e r w i t h o l i v e o i l a n d s e a s a l t t o t a s t e . R o a s t i n a 3 5 0 - d e g r e e o v e n u n t i l s l i g h t l y c h a r r e d a n d t e n d e r .

S t a r t t h e b u t t e r i n a c o l d s a u c e p o t a n d p l a c e o n m e d i u m h e a t . A l l o w t h e b u t t e r t o m e l t , b e c o m e f o a m y a n d t u r n g o l d e n b r o w n . R e m o v e t h e b r o w n b u t t e r f r o m h e a t a n d a d d t h e v a d o u v a n . L e t t h e v a d o u v a n a n d b u t t e r s i t f o r a n h o u r .

A d d a l l b u t 1 / 4 o f t h e r e m a i n i n g r a w c a u l i f l o w e r t o a s a u c e p o t . A d d t h e m i l k a n d j u s t e n o u g h w a t e r t o c o v e r c a u l i f l o w e r . A d d a t e a s p o o n o f s e a s a l t a n d c o o k o n l o w - m e d i u m h e a t u n t i l c a u l i f l o w e r i s c o m p l e t e l y s o f t . P u r e e t h i s m i x t u r e a n d s t r a i n t h r o u g h a f i n e s i e v e .

S l i c e t h e d a y - o l d b r e a d a s t h i c k a s y o u w a n t a n d b r u s h l i g h t l y w i t h t h e v a d o u v a n b u t t e r . B a k e i n a 3 5 0 - d e g r e e o v e n f o r a b o u t 5 - 6 m i n u t e s . ( A t t h i s t i m e c o r r e c t y o u r s e a s o n i n g o n t h e r o a s t e d a n d p u r e e d c a u l i f l o w e r . )

S e a s o n t h e r e m a i n i n g r a w c a u l i f l o w e r w i t h a t o u c h o f t h e v a d o u v a n , p a r s l e y a n d s e a s a l t .

O n t o p , a d d t h e r a w c a u l i f l o w e r a n d t h e d i s h i s r e a d y t o s e r v e w i t h t h e t o a s t e d b r e a d .
T I P S

T o c r e a t e f o u r i n d i v i d u a l s e r v i n g s , h a v e 4 s m a l l s e r v i n g p o t s , s u c h a s m i n i c a s t - i r o n p o t s . L a y e r t h e r o a s t e d a n d p u r e e d c a u l i f l o w e r a n d t h e n t h e v a d o u v a n b u t t e r c o n t i n u o u s l y u n t i l t h e p o t i s f i l l e d .
**
also some of the entrees one day included these on the night menu and more recipes are below

april 29th

bites

castelvetrano olives marinated in CARROT TOP pesto (v)

marcona almonds LAVENDER sugar, sea salt (v)

chickpea fries with HERBS romesco sauce (v)


today’s dish

chilled “forager’s chowder” enriched with NETTLE ice (v)
WILD SORRELS, BORAGE condimento, MINER’S LETTUCE, etc…

our log-cultivated SHIITAKES, young RADISH, and nori coulis (v)
jus roti with akitabare sake, CHIVE BLOSSOM, and preserved lemon

three BROCCOLI salad: ‘violet queen’, ‘romanesco’, and ‘crown’ (v)
classic italian flavors in modern preparations…and miso

cool english peas and GOLD PEA SHOOTS in a consommé of the shells *
white chocolate, CHOCOLATE MINT, macadamia, PURPLE SNAPS

gargouillou of the ubuntu SPRING GARDEN (v)
today’s LEAVES, FLOWERS, ROOTS, and SHOOTS…hazelnut “soil”

roscoe’s asparagus in various forms, a “virtual” egg *
black trumpet and brioche terrine, BORDEAUX SPINACH, “bordelaise”

carta da musica, our crispy sardinian flatbread *
SYLVETTA ARUGULA with truffled pecorino and meyer lemon

rustic rancho gordo ‘yellow eye’ bean stew (v)
torn bread, ROSEMARY, chili and RED RUSSIAN KALE

‘PURPLE VIENNA’ KOHLRABI, in the philosophy of “nose to tail” (v)
braised SWISS CHARD with a puree of the STEMS, napa smith ale

CARROTS: whole roast ‘OXHEART’ and tiny raw ‘PURPLE HAZE’ (v)
north african spice with citrus, NASTURTIUMS, and caramel oil

homemade toasted WILD FENNEL bucatini (v)
long-cooked FAVAS in pepper “tears”, salsa maro of roast FAVA PODS

organic yellow corn grits from arbuckle infused with goat’s milk whey
caramelized WILD ONION BULBS, “62.5” egg, AGRETTI, GARLIC FLOWERS

strawberry pizza margherita with hand-pulled mozzarella *
three-day napa strawberry soffrito, first BASILS of the year, saba

mushroom pizza bianco with homemade goat’s milk ricotta *
royal trumpet confit with a puree of the trimmings, three THYMES

cauliflower in a cast iron pot
roast-puree-raw, our vadouvan, CILANTRO sprouts, brown butter toast


***

I found more recipes from the restaurant to share.

Slideshow: Dinner at Ubuntu, Napa, California | Vegetarian ...
Apr 15, 2009 ... Earlier this year, I made the trip up to Napa, CA, to visit Ubuntu, a restaurant that's garnered national acclaim for a new kind of ...
www.yumsugar.com/3035406

Ubuntu Recipes

Photographed by Caren Alpert
Marcona Almonds with Sea Salt and Lavender Sugar

Marcona Almonds with Sea Salt and Lavender Sugar

Ingredients

• 2 cups Marcona almonds
• 1 tsp. dried lavender
• 1 tbsp. sugar
• 1 tbsp. sea salt
• 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F. Roast the almonds on a baking sheet until fragrant, 10 to 12 minutes.

2. Grind the lavender very fine in a coffee grinder, or with a mortar and pestle.

3. In a bowl, toss the almonds with the lavender, sugar, s

***
Ubuntu Recipes (continued)

Beets Roasted in Spiced Salt with Asian Pears and Whipped Blue Cheese

Beets Roasted in Spiced Salt with Asian Pears and Whipped Blue Cheese

Ingredients

Beets:
• 1 lb. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. each fennel seed, coriander, juniper berries
• 40 baby chioggia beets
• 4 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Poached Pears:
• 2 cups white wine
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 star anise
• 12 black peppercorns
• 2 cloves
• Grating of nutmeg
• 1 lemon, zest removed in strips with a vegetable peeler, and juiced
• 5 Asian pears, peeled, halved, cored, and stored in a bowl of water acidulated with juice of 1 lemon
• 1⁄2 lb. blue cheese, at room temperature
• 2 tbsp. heavy cream
• 1⁄4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt
• 25 leaves arugula

Directions

1. To roast the beets: Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a small bowl, mix the salt and spices. In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish or an ovenproof vessel with a lid, pack the beets in the spiced salt mixture. Cover with foil or the lid, and bake until beets are tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour. While still warm but cool enough to handle, peel beets with a towel, rubbing off the skin, and transfer to a covered bowl to keep warm. Add 2 tablespoons of the vinegar, and toss. (Warm beets will absorb liquid better.) Halve or quarter beets, depending on size; set aside.

2. To poach the pears: In a nonreactive pot large enough to hold the pears, bring the wine to a boil, and cook until reduced by half. Reduce the heat so that the liquid barely simmers. Add the water, sugar, spices and lemon juice and zest, and cook until sugar dissolves. Add pears, setting a plate on top to keep them submerged, and simmer until they are tender, about 30 minutes. Remove pot from heat; allow pears to cool completely in poaching liquid.

3. In a bowl, whisk the blue cheese and cream until blended; set aside at room temperature.

4. To serve, purée two of the pears with just enough poaching liquid to blend; strain through fine sieve. Slice the remaining pears about 1⁄2 inch thick. Spread the pear purée over the bottom of a serving plate. Toss the beets in the remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, the olive oil and a pinch of salt, and arrange evenly over purée. Spoon any beet vinaigrette over. Top with sliced pears and spoonfuls of whipped blue cheese. Garnish with arugula leaves. Serves 6.
***
Ubuntu Recipes (continued)

Cassoulet of Shell Beans and Farm Eggs with Smoked Tomato

Cassoulet of Shell Beans and Farm Eggs with Smoked Tomato

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup hickory chips
• 6 tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 lb. yellow eye beans, soaked overnight in refrigerator in water to cover, and drained*
• 2 quarts water
• Salt
• 1 lemon, zest stripped off with vegetable peeler, and juiced
• 1⁄2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 12 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 1 tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp. chili flakes
• 3 tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 small baguette (about 7 oz.) or other bread, torn into rough pieces
• 3 tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• 6 large eggs
*Yellow eye beans are available in specialty grocery stores or online at RanchoGordo.com

Directions

1. Arrange one oven rack in the bottom of a cold oven, and a second in the middle. Light the hickory chips in a cast-iron pan and place on the bottom rack. Put the tomatoes, onion, carrot and celery on a baking sheet and set on the middle rack. Close the oven door and let vegetables smoke for 1 hour. (Check the chips every now and then; you may need to relight them.)

2. Transfer the smoked onion, carrot and celery to a large pot; reserve the tomatoes. Add the beans and the water to pot, bring to a simmer, and cook over low heat, uncovered, until the beans are tender, about 45 minutes. Stir in 2 teaspoons salt and the lemon juice, reserving zest.

3. In 1⁄2 cup of olive oil, cook the garlic, rosemary, chili flakes and tomato paste in a sauté pan over medium-low heat until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Scrape into the pot with the beans and stir.

4. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Transfer the bean mixture to a large ovenproof serving pot. Scatter torn bread, parsley, lemon zest and reserved smoked tomatoes over to cover. Crack eggs on top, evenly dispersing them. Drizzle with olive oil and bake until eggs are cooked but yolks are still runny, about 10 minutes. Serves 6.
**

Ubuntu Recipes (continued)

Farro with Caramelized Baby Root Vegetables and Saba

Farro with Caramelized Baby Root Vegetables and Saba

Ingredients

• 2 lb. crimini mushrooms
• 1⁄2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 1 lb. farro
• 1⁄2 cup red wine
• Salt and pepper
• 24 baby carrots, peeled
• 24 baby turnips, peeled
• 24 baby radishes
• 18 Brussels sprouts, separated into leaves
• 1⁄4 cup saba*
*Saba is available in specialty stores and online at Cooking.com

Directions

1. Put mushrooms in a large pot with 1 quart of water. Bring to a simmer and cook over low heat, partially covered, 3 hours. Strain stock through cheesecloth into a bowl. When cool enough to handle, squeeze mushrooms to extract as much liquid as possible; discard mushrooms. Reserve mushroom stock.

2. In a nonreactive saucepan, heat 1⁄4 cup of the olive oil over low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until translucent, 5 to 8 minutes. Raise heat to medium. Add the farro and cook, stirring often, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the wine and cook until evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the reserved mushroom stock, bring to a simmer, and cook until farro is tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour. (Check the pan after about 30 minutes, and add 1⁄2 cup water if needed.)

3. Meanwhile, prepare a bowl of ice water. Bring about 3 quarts water to a boil with 2 teaspoons salt in a large saucepan. Add the carrots, turnips and radishes, return water to a boil, and cook 2 minutes. Strain, and transfer vegetables to ice water to chill.

4. To serve, warm farro over low heat. In a skillet, heat the remaining 1⁄4 cup olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the blanched vegetables, the Brussels sprouts leaves, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper, and sauté until vegetables are warmed through. Add the saba, stir, and remove from the heat. Transfer farro to a large serving plate and spoon the vegetables over or around the grain. Serves 6.
**

Ubuntu Recipes (continued)

Honey-Roasted Figs with Brown-Butter Shortcake and Rosemary Cream

Ingredients

Rosemary Cream:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 (4-inch) sprigs rosemary
• 2 tbsp. sugar

Brown-Butter Shortcakes:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1⁄2 tsp. salt
• 3⁄4 cup buttermilk
• Heavy cream, for glazing
• Raw sugar, for sprinkling

Honey-Roasted Figs:
• 1 pint ripe figs, halved
• 1⁄4 cup honey
• 1 (4-inch) sprig rosemary
• Zest of 1 orange, stripped off with vegetable peeler
• Salt

Directions

1. To make the rosemary cream: Bring cream to a simmer in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, add rosemary, and set aside to steep for 30 minutes. Strain; chill for at least 3 hours. Transfer cream to bowl, or the bowl of a standing mixer, add sugar, and whisk or beat to soft peaks.

2. To make the shortcakes: Cook the butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it turns an amber color, about 5 minutes. (First you'll see brown specks appear; continue cooking until the liquid fat browns.) Pour into a shallow, flat-bottomed container and refrigerate until solid and very cold. (You'll have about 7 ounces brown butter.) Weigh out 4 ounces of the chilled butter (reserve remainder for another use) and cut into 1⁄2-inch cubes. Place flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Add chilled butter cubes and pulse about 4 times, until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add buttermilk and process just until dough comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Butter a baking sheet. On a lightly floured work surface, roll dough 3⁄4 inch thick. Cut out six 2 1⁄2 inch rounds with a cookie cutter. Arrange shortcakes on baking sheet. Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Transfer to wire rack. Let stand at room temperature until ready to serve.

4. To make the figs: Lower oven heat to 275 F. Toss figs in a bowl with honey, rosemary, orange zest and a pinch of salt. Place them, cut side up, in a single layer in a shallow baking pan and bake, basting occasionally with juices, until figs are juicy but still have texture, 30 to 40 minutes.

5. To serve, place a shortcake on each of 6 serving plates and spoon some of the figs on top. Top with dollops of rosemary cream. Spoon any remaining juices from figs over the shortcakes and around the plates. Serves 6.
Page 5 of 6
**
U b u n t u R e c i p e s ( c o n t i n u e d )

C o n c o r d G r a p e a n d ≠ M a s c a r p o n e I c e C r e a m F l o a t s w i t h G i n g e r S o d a a n d C i t r u s

C o n c o r d G r a p e a n d ≠ M a s c a r p o n e I c e C r e a m F l o a t s w i t h G i n g e r S o d a a n d C i t r u s

I n g r e d i e n t s

M a s c a r p o n e I c e C r e a m :
" 3 c u p s m i l k
" 1 0 l a r g e e g g y o l k s
" 3 D 4 c u p s u g a r
" 8 o z . m a s c a r p o n e
" 1 D 2 c u p c r Ë m e f r a Ó c h e
" 1 t s p . p u r e v a n i l l a e x t r a c t
" S a l t

C o n c o r d G r a p e S o r b e t :
" 1 l b . C o n c o r d g r a p e s , s t e m m e d
" 1 D 2 c u p s u g a r
" 1 t s p . l e m o n j u i c e
" 1 D 2 t s p . C h a m p a g n e

O r a n g e G r a n i t e :
" J u i c e o f 8 o r a n g e s , s t r a i n e d ( a b o u t 2 c u p s )
" J u i c e o f 1 D 2 l e m o n
" 2 t b s p . s u g a r

G i n g e r S o d a :
" 1 D 2 c u p s u g a r
" 2 c u p s w a t e r
" 1 o r a n g e , z e s t s t r i p p e d o f f w i t h v e g e t a b l e p e e l e r , a n d j u i c e d
" 1 l e m o n , z e s t s t r i p p e d o f f w i t h v e g e t a b l e p e e l e r , a n d j u i c e d
" 1 l i m e , z e s t s t r i p p e d o f f w i t h v e g e t a b l e p e e l e r , a n d j u i c e d
" 2 t b s p . c h o p p e d g i n g e r
" 1 D 2 c u p s o d a w a t e r ( o p t i o n a l )
" 2 o r a n g e s , b r o k e n i n t o s e g m e n t s , f o r g a r n i s h
" 1 2 C o n c o r d g r a p e s , h a l v e d , a n d s e e d e d , f o r g a r n i s h

D i r e c t i o n s

1 . T o m a k e t h e i c e c r e a m : I n a s a u c e p a n , b r i n g t h e m i l k t o a s i m m e r . M e a n w h i l e , i n a h e a t p r o o f b o w l , w h i s k t h e e g g y o l k s w i t h t h e s u g a r . G r a d u a l l y p o u r a l i t t l e o f t h e h o t m i l k i n t o t h e b o w l w i t h t h e y o l k s , w h i s k i n g c o n s t a n t l y . W h i s k t h e e g g y o l k m i x t u r e b a c k i n t o t h e s a u c e p a n o f m i l k . S e t o v e r l o w h e a t a n d c o o k , s t i r r i n g c o n s t a n t l y , u n t i l t h e m i x t u r e t h i c k e n s e n o u g h t o c o a t t h e b a c k o f a s p o o n , a b o u t 8 m i n u t e s . R e m o v e f r o m h e a t a n d w h i s k i n t h e m a s c a r p o n e , c r Ë m e f r a Ó c h e , v a n i l l a a n d a p i n c h o f s a l t . S t r a i n i n t o a b o w l a n d c h i l l u n t i l c o l d , 2 t o 3 h o u r s . T r a n s f e r t o a n i c e c r e a m m a c h i n e , a n d f r e e z e a c c o r d i n g t o m a n u f a c t u r e r ' s i n s t r u c t i o n s .

2 . T o m a k e t h e s o r b e t : C o m b i n e a l l i n g r e d i e n t s i n b l e n d e r ; p u r È e . S t r a i n t h r o u g h a f i n e s t r a i n e r . T r a n s f e r t o a n i c e c r e a m m a k e r a n d f r e e z e a c c o r d i n g t o m a n u f a c t u r e r ' s i n s t r u c t i o n s .

3 . T o m a k e t h e g r a n i t e : I n a b o w l , s t i r t o g e t h e r o r a n g e a n d l e m o n j u i c e s , a n d s u g a r . P o u r i n t o a s h a l l o w d i s h a n d p l a c e i n f r e e z e r . W h e n c r y s t a l s b e g i n t o f o r m , s t i r w i t h a f o r k t o b r e a k u p c r y s t a l s ; r e t u r n d i s h t o f r e e z e r . C o n t i n u e i n t h i s w a y , s t i r r i n g e v e r y 2 0 t o 3 0 m i n u t e s , u n t i l m i x t u r e i s c o m p l e t e l y f r o z e n .

4 . T o m a k e t h e s o d a : I n a s a u c e p a n , b r i n g s u g a r a n d w a t e r t o a s i m m e r . A d d c i t r u s z e s t s a n d c h o p p e d g i n g e r . R e m o v e f r o m h e a t a n d s e t a s i d e t o i n f u s e 1 5 t o 2 0 m i n u t e s . S t r a i n t h r o u g h a f i n e s t r a i n e r , a n d c h i l l a t l e a s t 1 h o u r . A d d c i t r u s j u i c e s . L o a d i n t o s o d a s i p h o n , o r a d d s o d a w a t e r .

5 . T o s e r v e , l a y e r t h e m a s c a r p o n e i c e c r e a m , g r a p e s o r b e t a n d g i n g e r s o d a i n s i x p a r f a i t g l a s s e s . T o p e a c h w i t h a s p o o n f u l o f o r a n g e g r a n i t e . G a r n i s h e a c h w i t h 3 o r a n g e s e g m e n t s a n d 2 h a l v e d g r a p e s . S e r v e s 6 .
P a g e 6 o f 6


***
P i s t a c h i o - c r u s t e d g o a t c h e e s e s a l a d
H e a t h e r T e r h u n e , A t w o o d C a f È

6 r e s t a u r a n t s e r v i n g s

I N G R E D I E N T S

" 1 / 2 c u p f r e s h l e m o n j u i c e a n d z e s t o f o n e l e m o n
" 1 t e a s p o o n D i j o n m u s t a r d
" 1 / 4 t e a s p o o n h o n e y
" 1 s h a l l o t , f i n e l y c h o p p e d
" 1 / 2 c u p c a n o l a o i l
" 1 / 4 c u p o l i v e o i l
" S a l t a n d p e p p e r t o t a s t e
" 1 p o u n d m i x e d g r e e n s , o r y o u r f a v o r i t e s a l a d m i x
" 1 0 s m a l l r e d b e e t s
" 1 ( 6 - o u n c e ) l o g f r e s h g o a t c h e e s e
" 1 / 2 c u p f i n e l y c r u s h e d p i s t a c h i o n u t s , n o t t o a s t e d
" 1 / 4 c u p a l l - p u r p o s e f l o u r
" 1 e g g b e a t e n w i t h 2 t b s p w a t e r

R e c i p e c o n t i n u e s b e l o w !ì a d v e r t i s e m e n t

D I R E C T I O N S

H e a t t h e o v e n t o 4 0 0 d e g r e e s . P l a c e t h e b e e t s o n a p i e c e o f a l u m i n u m f o i l o n a b a k i n g s h e e t a n d m a k e a p o u c h o u t o f t h e f o i l , s e a l i n g i t t i g h t l y .

B a k e b e e t s f o r 4 0 m i n u t e s . R e m o v e f r o m o v e n a n d l e t b e e t s s t e a m f o r 1 0 m i n u t e s . O p e n t h e p o u c h a n d l e t t h e b e e t s c o o l s l i g h t l y . T h i s c a n b e d o n e a d a y i n a d v a n c e .

W h i s k t o g e t h e r l e m o n j u i c e , l e m o n z e s t , m u s t a r d , h o n e y a n d s h a l l o t i n a s m a l l b o w l . S l o w l y w h i s k i n t h e o i l s a n d s e a s o n w i t h s a l t a n d p e p p e r . S e t t h e v i n a i g r e t t e a s i d e .

A f t e r t h e b e e t s h a v e c o o l e d e n o u g h t o h a n d l e , r e m o v e a n d d i s c a r d t h e s k i n s a n d c u t i n t o b i t e - s i z e p i e c e s . M i x t h e b e e t s w i t h h a l f o f v i n a i g r e t t e , t h e n m i x t h e s a l a d g r e e n s w i t h t h e r e s t o f t h e v i n a i g r e t t e . T r a n s f e r g r e e n s t o p l a t e s a n d t o p w i t h b e e t s .

C u t g o a t c h e e s e l o g i n t o s i x p o r t i o n s a n d f o r m t h e g o a t c h e e s e i n t o d i s k s . U s i n g t h e b r e a d i n g p r o c e d u r e , d u s t g o a t c h e e s e d i s k s i n f l o u r . N e x t , d i p i n t h e b e a t e n e g g m i x t u r e , a n d t h e n r o l l i n p i s t a c h i o s . F o l l o w t h i s p r o c e s s w i t h a l l s i x g o a t c h e e s e d i s k s .

W h e n y o u a r e r e a d y t o s e r v e , h e a t 2 i n c h e s o f c a n o l a o i l i n a s m a l l s a u c e p a n . H e a t t h e o i l t o 3 5 0 d e g r e e s a n d d e e p - f r y t h e g o a t c h e e s e d i s c s u n t i l g o l d e n b r o w n .

S e r v e o n t o p o f t h e s a l a d m i x t u r e . T o g a r n i s h , a d d a f e w c h o p p e d p i s t a c h i o s a n d d r i z z l e w i t h m o r e
h o n e y .

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Restaurant Finds : Portland

One way for me to look for new recipes is exploring magazine articles like in Bon Appeptite magazine (of which I have had recipes published). I've been to Portland several years ago and it is a marvelous place with nice restaurants. The magazine had several restaurants in the article and notes some interested dishes and more. When I go back I will have to hunt these down.

Potato Champion on Urbanspoon


Belgian pomme frites in paper cone with dipping sauces ( rosemary truffle ketchgup and tarragon anchovy mayo

Taqueria Los Gorditos on Urbanspoon

Mexican and veg dishes

Ziba's Pitas on Urbanspoon

pita with beef and more with special condiment ajvar relish (tomatoes, eggplant, garlic, paprika ) and great meatballs (cufte) with garlicky white sauce.