We
don't do much formal entertaining these days and when we do it's
casual and more relaxed, the formality has all but disappeared, thank
goodness! There are however times when you need to step up a gear or
two when special occasions present themselves.
Such
was the case recently when our old friend Neil, who lives
predominantly in the USA, was visiting with his lovely lady Rox. In
itself not an unusual occurrence but this time they were bringing
Rox's best friend and her husband – Gracey and Joe. Although Joe
had been to London on business many moons ago, it was their first
trip to the UK together.
A
dinner date was duly entered in their busy schedule – definitely a
special occasion and so the food should be too.
You
may not be aware but we Brits do not have a great culinary reputation
in the USA so all the more reason to be at the top of my game!
First
and foremost - find out what the dietary requirements are – it's
never a good idea to fly blind in these situations! Mission
accomplished - I have two veggies – although to confuse the issue
one does eat shellfish – the rest of the party eat anything -
always good.
Now
for the tricky bit - I want to spend as much time as possible with my
guests and not be tied to the kitchen only to emerge hot and bothered
– food you serve when you're flustered shows on the plate.
Here's
the menu :
Scallops
and king prawns in black bean sauce
Pork
with Calvados cream sauce
Chestnut
and apple roast for the vegetarians
Gateau
a l'Orange with orange syrup, clotted cream
and
vanilla ice cream
This is only the beginning ...
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