In the Mind of a Chef: Austin Events
I believe that in order to create and redefine food, you have to continually experience food in new and interesting ways. I take great pride is hosting events, and I also love to attend them. For me, it’s a way to enjoy my own passion, while fueling it at the same time.
In November, I was a guest at both the Sustainable Food Center’s (SFC) Chef Series Dinner and Driskill’s 4-Course Beer Pairing. Equally unique and inspiring, I took away some key details for our Boutique Catering and Personal Chef Services. Whether you’re a foodie, client or fellow culinary professional, I hope these musings from the “mind of a chef” will help you expand your limits in the kitchen—and beyond.
Here’s what I ate, noted and learned…
Reinvent the Classics
As a chef, I am constantly looking for that new spin or innovative take on a traditional dish. Both nights I was really happy to see just that. I really enjoyed Chef Jason Stude’s course at the SFC, featuring brown-butter potatoes, cabbage, onion, comeback sauce and caraway. He explained it was a derivative of the popular Rueben sandwich, presented differently. And he nailed it! If you closed your eyes, you were eating a Rueben. Very well played.
Make It Memorable
The hallmark of our Boutique Catering Service is to create a unique and memorable culinary experience. I achieve this through an interactive and personalized approach to the meal. Part of that is making sure we come out as each dish is served to discuss and describe it. During both events, the chefs came out of the kitchen to present their dishes. For me, this was a great opportunity to see what it’s like to be the guest, and also to see how other chefs talk about their food.
Be Bold
Frequently I’m asked to pair beer, wine or even spirits with my menus. At the SFC event, we enjoyed a well-matched wine pairing with our courses. At the Driskill dinner, the chefs partnered with Real Ale Brewing Co., and paired some great beers with their dishes. Both pairings were bold, but spot on. In fact, it’s not often you have an eclectic dining experience that goes from a Japanese Smoked Pheasant paired with Sake to a Mexican-style Javelin paired with an Italian Veronese.
Experience it for yourself…
Enjoy your own food event, wine pairing or cooking class with The Austin Artisan. We believe in crafting customized menus, sourcing fresh and seasonal ingredients and always upping the ante to bring you an unforgettable experience. Click here to learn more and to reserve your event.
Posted in: Catering Services