Tuesday, October 28, 2014

a birthday celebration

Saturday we celebrated son number two's birthday, six  of us, all family. He'd requested duck and a fruit tart, so that's what he got. We started with prosecco accompanied by a creamy, nutty provolone served with honey mixed with red pepper flakes.Also, a mushroom and walnut pate that even the mushroom scorning ate with happy surprise. Next, at table, a refreshing salad of Belgian endive,radicchio and blood oranges sprinkled with roughly chopped roasted hazelnuts. This was followed by duck with an apple,prune,celery and onion dressing that included cubes of rye bread and was moistened with a bit of lemon juice and a bit of heavy cream. I made a light pinot noir sauce for the bird and served broccoli alongside. We drank a really lovely pinot noir heartily recommended by my friendly pal at the wine store. The conversation was unceasing and frequently hilarious. My niece, Sam, has a wicked sense of humor and was in great humor. Dessert was a tarte aux cerises in an almond meal crust. Then it was gift opening time and a bit of recovery from the indulgences of the evening.More proof that family is what counts, big time.