Tuesday, June 30, 2009

je suis cochonne



I went to Guemes Island for the weekend with family. The weather was extraordinary and the time spent was relaxing and most enjoyable. I have recently acquired a shellfish license and since then have consumed more oysters than most do over a lifetime.

A few weeks ago I was at one of our favorite sushi restaurants in Seattle, Chiso, (Maneki is my all-time favorite) and I was lucky enough to find an oyster special on the menu. The "special oysters" were Shigoku oysters on the half shell, served with a nice little sauce. The chef went on and on about where they buy their oysters, Taylor Shell Fish Farms. I realized on Guemes that I was a short drive away from Taylor and so I ventured off and bought some Kumamotos, Shigokus , as well as Olympias and Virginicas. YUM. I shucked my little heart out (64 oysters! - not my heart.) I made a mignonette made up of rice vinegar, shallots, ginger, tobasco, and salt and pepper.....delish!!

The Olympias are as big as a dime, probably wouldn't buy those again. The Kumamotos and Shigokus were so delicate and smooth, with a hint of sweetness. The Virginicas, can't say that I remember what those were like, I was in an oyster coma.

I  probably won't order 5 dozen again (oh yes I will), but I'll have to save for our next oyster extravaganza.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

une nouvelle rotation sur le blog


Seeing as my favorite restaurant has always been MY HOUSE, I will begin reporting on the fabulousness which arises.

This will mostly me be bragging of my culinary talents.

What better way to start than CAROLINA BBQ! This is an acquired taste really, but so good!!! Pork stews/roasts/bbq's in vinegary juices 8-12 hours, then chopped to smithereens. Another spicy/vinegary concoction is whipped up for the final christening. YUM. Spread the pork in a bun and pour on the sauce.

This was accompanied by another vinegary dish. I really wanted a coleslaw, but not a disgusting mayonnaisy mess. I found a jicama slaw with a tangy/spicy dressing. Vinegar overload, there's nothing wrong with that. Wish I'd had a nice light beer to wash it down.