May Memories: Party at Book Larder

May was a busy month at The Joyful Kitchens.  Too busy in fact, something it seems we all need to learn and relearn NOT to do to ourselves.  Sometimes though, you're just on the ride and there are some twists you don't expect but you just gotta hold on tight and it will be over when it's over!  So here we are in June and looking forward to a slower pace but want to look back and reflect on a very busy and wonderful month as a new little company.

One of the highlights of the month was catering an event at Seattle's amazing one and only cookbook book store, Book Larder.  Have you heard of it?  It really is a special place.  My dear friend Dana, who is a prolific and long time food blogger, personal chef and cooking class instructor, is the culinary director.  On May 24th, Ted Allen (of Chopped and other Food Network shows) would be in town for a book signing and talk.  She had a cooking class that evening, so she asked me to step in to cook up some items from his book, In My Kitchen.  Turns out his book is awesome.  I made quite a few items including the beautiful pickled vegetables above.

My favorite recipe from the book so far is this North Carolina Pulled Pork.  It had a vinegary sauce that scared me at first but turned out to be absolutely tongue tingling.  I also had my first experience with low and slow cooking on the grill (versus in the oven).  Six hours and lots of hickory chips later I had my first ever smoke ring.  Such a gratifying feeling!  I served it up on warm homemade brioche buns with pickled red onions.

Ted's Devilish Chipotle, chive and white cheddar eggs.

This is some really delicious butter pecan brittle.  I got myself a pretty horrendous burn making it though.  Zack promptly purchased me these afterwards and asks me if I'm going to wear them just about every time he sees me in the kitchen.  He is very protective and that is sweet.  I'm kind of a rub-some-dirt-on-it girl when it comes to injury, but he looks out for me.

  

Honey and Toasted Coconut Marshmallows rounded out the menu.  Homemade marshmallows are always a hit.  Ted was funny and generous and the event went great.  Be sure you get on the Mailing list at Book Larder if you enjoy cookbooks and culinary events!

Stay tuned later in the week for highlights from our Southwest Cooking class!