Nov 05 2016

Alone In The Kitchen With An Old Frenchman

Editor’s Note: This is the final episode in this series. Next week we begin with preparations and recipes for Thanksgiving.

Recently French chef Jacques Pépin turned 80 and retired. Over the years, he educated viewers of Public Television on how to cook and, something that no other cooking show host has done, techniques in the kitchen with wisdom, humor and a smattering of French lessons. As Gilad Edelman wrote in a Slate article, this man will teach you how to cook

Viva España!

Jacques’ world travels influence his cooking, and with this menu we’ll savor the essence of Spain. Bold and Spicy Gazpacho kicks off the meal followed by Shellfish and Chicken Paella. A quick detour to pick up some Caribbean flavors makes the last dish of Pineapple in Dark Rum Sauce worth a trip to the kitchen.

Shellfish and Chicken Paella (pdf)

Butter Bean Canapés (pdf)

I love beans and the big butter beans (habas grandes) available in cans at the supermarket are well suited for these canapés. The bean mixture also makes a great first-course salad or meat accompaniment. If made up to 3 hours ahead, the bread will, for the better, soak up the juices from the beans.