Author: The Gilded Fork

09 Jan

Posted at 20:00h in Main Courses, Recipes by
This dish is deceptively simple, and is a great technique for preparing duck breast with any kind of sauce. We think the port pairs so well with the richness of the duck, and who can resist a dish with figs? Serve over a disc of polenta pan-fried in a little hazelnut oil and a simple salad of mixed greens for an exquisite meal. 4 servings Ingredients 4 6-8 ounce boneless duck breasts, skin intact (or 2 larger duck breasts, 8 ounces per person) Sea salt and freshly ground white peppercorn, to taste For the port demi-glace: 6 fresh figs, halved (or dried if out of season) 1 teaspoon of whole white peppercorns ½ teaspoon finely minced chervil (or parsley) 1 cup ruby port

21 Dec

Posted at 09:00h in Dinner Parties & Entertaining, Test Kitchen by
We are of two minds when it comes to New Year's Eve: We either want to be dressed to the nines at a fabulous ballroom-esque gala, or gathered with friends in a casual setting at home. This year we're opting for the latter, so we've put together a menu perfect for a casually elegant night in. For further tips, we've crafted test kitchen dossiers on both Cocktails and Hors d'Oeuvres for this month, so take all the notes you need to. Don't forget that the rest of our Entertaining section has further tips on decor and the trimmings. Now get that celebration started, and say adieu to another year! Cocktails, finger foods and dessert. Is there any better way to ring in the New Year? COCKTAILS Provocachic™ Cosmopolitan Lemongrass Martini Love Potion: Family Edition Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail LIGHT HORS D'OEUVRES (2 to 3 servings per person) Minted Pea Puree Canapes in Puff Pastry Vol au Vents Dilled Crab Salad on Artichoke Bottoms Celeriac Prosciutto Rolls with Lemongrass Vinaigrette Cucumber Cups with Caviar and Champagne Onions