Rehearsal Dinner

My mom wanted me to make dinner for her friends in Manila so while I was here I asked some of my friends to be my test subjects. I knew my mom wanted to impress so I had to make sure I didn't disappoint. I agonized over the menu...I had it all planned out (after a week of deciding what to make, changing my mind, asking my husband, making my mind up, changing my mind...oh you know...being a gurl according to my husband) and I'm not much of a pastry chef... So finally, the menu...

Canape: Parma ham and watercress
Starter: Tigerprawn salad
First Course: Saffron and wild mushroom risotto
Second Course: Foie Gras, balsamic and port reduction with toasted brioche
Main Course: Lamb cutlets with herb crust, ratatouille and french beans
Dessert: Fruit Crumble with vanilla ice cream

Wine pairing and pictures were fabulously done by the magnificent Ray.

I even made a market and mise en place list to make sure I had everything covered.

Here's to dinner!


Mise en Place



Making prawn oil and lamb jus


Preparing the fruits...thank you to my bestfriend Winnie (muwah muwah) for lending her skills while I watched and learned how to make a perfect (hers) and decent (mine) fruit crumble


And dinner is served...

Parma ham and watercress


Tigerprawn salad with grapefruit and avocado; basil dressing and prawn oil


Saffron and Wild Mushroom Risotto


Foie Gras with balsamic port reduction and toasted brioche


Lamb cutlets with herb crust, ratatouille and french beans

And finally...


I had a blast. It was one of the most memorable nights of my life...cooking for friends...enjoying the food...and most especially...the company.

Thank you Ray for letting me use your kitchen, and for your unending hospitality.

The dinner in Manila turned out great...Michael did most of the work (thank you babe), and I took all the credit. My mom and her friends loved it.