12.29.2009

December 29, 2009

White Dog helped us put together a birthday dinner for Chef Richard last night. Even though he is a very appreciative friend, cooking for a classically trained haute chef is just a tad intimidating. All day we braised lamb shanks in Mediterranean spices and wine; White Dog reminded me when her sniffer told her it was time to baste or turn them. We snapped luscious thin asparagus in preparation for last-minute steaming. White Dog doesn't like to eat these, but enjoys gnawing the stalks to shreds. When Steve got home he made a red wine, rosemary, and garlic reduction for over the lamb. Just as Richard arrived, White Dog and I finished topping beautiful purple baby Peruvian potatoes with creme fraiche (one of White Dog's licking favorites) and tiny daubs of orange salmon caviar. Richard brought his favorite beet salad with goat cheese (another White Dog top 10) and we sat down to a candlelit feast honoring our special friend. Coffee accompanied ginger and passion fruit gelatos; then we opened presents. Richard really liked White Dog's gift of lavender foot balm and crazy colorful socks; she got a famous ear and scalp massage for her efforts. It was a warm wonderful evening celebrating friendship. Happiest of Birthday Wishes to a dear friend from all of us!

6 comments:

Teddy Bear said...

Happy Birthday to Richard. The dinner sounds scrumptious!!!

Love,
Teddy Bear

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

Oh my!

Mom just finished her dinner but she's soooo drooling now!

It all sounds pawesome!

Happy Birthday to Richard!

Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra

Scottie the 'Cutie' said...

Wow, all the food sounds YUMMY! Happy Birthday to Chef Richard!

Scottie

Coffee Talk with Shar said...

No need to be intimidated, I am sure. We bet that Richard not only LOVED your dinner, but enjoyed the friendship of the evening and what you have shared with him over the years even more. You are all quite incredible, you know!

Happy Birthday, dear heart brother!

Love you all xo

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

Now that dinner had our taste buds realy going. I can just immagine the lovely evening you had. Good food, good company in a loving enviroment, what more could you wish for. Happy Birthday Richard. Hugs GJ x

Amy & the house of cats said...

Wow that sounds like it was a great birthday dinner! Happy Birthday Chef Richard!