When I first borrowed the book, I thought that there was a slight possibility that I could try a couple of the recipes. 20 minutes into looking through the book, I was discouraged that there was no way I could make any of the recipes. First, I don't know how to shuck an oyster. Second, I don't have the tools. Third, I don't have the money to buy the food. I put the book down dejected and hungry.
A couple days later, when I was feeling more confident and determined, I went through the book looking for the easiest and cheapest recipe.
The recipe I chose was pan-roasted scallops with morel mushrooms, and asparagus puree. The problem, I found out later, that morels are hard to find and are super expensive. They are also poisonous when raw (just in case you are put in that situation). I found on a website that morels can be priced at $59.99. Alvin kept teasing me that it was a Disneyland ticket. I thought, if I have to choose between DL and mushrooms, I am choosing DL (I Heart DL.)
So the substitute I chose was Hen of the Woods mushroom. Sounds like Chicken of the Sea. Anyway, prep time was about an hour, cook time was 30 minutes. The most snobby request the recipe asked for was to cut the tomatoes into small dice, but shaped like diamonds. My friend CWang, owner of snobby book, came over to help and then of course eat.
And here are pictures of the result:
Here is my critique of the recipe: I didn't like the asparagus on top because the texture clashed with everything else, but the puree, mushrooms and scallops went well together.
Also, it doesn't fill. My friend made mashed potatoes, not from French Laundry, to fill up everyone's stomach.
Overall, it was very yummy. Kudos to the snobby recipe. I guess being a snob works sometimes.
I will let the Alee and CWang comment with their critique.
I feel accomplished now for making my first and probably last French Laundry recipe.
2 comments:
I think making TFL is a big accomplishment, but most people have no idea what TFL is!! I am proud of you for trying. I think you did a great job selecting a recipe that was reasonable in cost and effort, the two big issues with TFL. It turned out great!! You cooked the scallops perfectly, and you pulled everything else off perfectly too, except the diamond tomatoes. I enjoyed it immensely, and I am so happy you took on one of my silly interests as your own. A true friend.
When you are at DL this month, I hope you think of morels while you are there.
Also, I am proud of Balvin for eating all of his asparagus.
Love,
Carol
It was a great dish! The mushrooms (which I chose and purchased) were especially yummy. While you were cooking it up, I loved how the mushrooms and the scallops made the kitchen smell. Was not as big of a fan of how the asparagus made the bathroom smell.
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