Thomas J. Craughwell "Thomas Jefferson’s Crème Brûlée"
Thomas J. Craughwell is the author of several nonfiction books, including Stealing Lincoln’s Body (Harvard University Press, 2007), which was adapted into a documentary by the History Channel. He lives in Bethel, Connecticut. . In his current book Craughwell explores Thomas Jefferon's fascination with bringing french cooking to America.
In 1784, Thomas Jefferson struck a deal with one of his slaves, 19-year-old James Hemings. The founding Father was traveling to Paris and wanted to bring James along “for a particular purpose” – to master the art of French cooking. In exchange for James’s cooperation, Jefferson would grant his freedom. Thus began one of the strangest partnerships in U.S. history. As James apprenticed under master French chefs, Jefferson studied the cultivation of French crops (especially grapes for winemaking) so the might be replicated in American agriculture. The two men returned home with such marvels as pasta, French fries, champagne, macaroni and cheese, crème brûlée, and a host of other treats. This narrative nonfiction book tells the fascinating story behind their remarkable adventure – and includes 12 of their original recipes!
CLAIRE ROBINSON - "5 INGREDIENT FIX" FOOD NETWORK
S’mores are a great dessert at fall gatherings – How do you like to prepare them? She’ll then discuss her spin on the classic with DOVE chocolate. You can find the S’mores recipe and a whole bunch of other great ideas at DOVE Chocolate’s Facebook page – Facebook.com/DOVEChocolate. Claire Robinson combines her passions for food and television in 5 Ingredient Fix, a Food Network series featuring delicious eclectic recipes made with five ingredients or fewer. She believes the best dishes feature carefully selected fresh foods with distinct flavors and a straightforward cooking style that also promotes healthy and seasonal eating. Claire also joined Food Network’s prime time lineup as the host of Food Network Challenge (as of April 2010), bringing her culinary knowledge and passion for the iconic show to its brand-new set and providing minute-by-minute details of the thrilling challenges. With a multi ethnic background, Claire cites her French-speaking grandmother as a major influence on her love for food, a joy passed on through many generations. Born in Jacksonville, Fla., Claire (and her family) spent time in St. Augustine, Fla.; Houston; and New Orleans, but ultimately settled in Memphis, Tenn.
Maitre D Rueben Castro - La Dolce Vita
Intimately dark and inviting, homespun and cosmopolitan, La Dolce Vita has long been the favorite destination of the renowned and famous, from presidents and celebrities to the Rat Pack and the rest of us who are looking for some of the finest Northern Italian cuisine in Southern California. La Dolce Vita is a clubhouse for all - a safe haven from the paparazzi where every meal is made from scratch, and any dish requested will be made to order. Regulars argue about the best part of La Dolce Vita: is it the wonderful menu selection, or the unique atmosphere of the place?
