“Instant” Dutch Yellow Potatoes

Instant Dutch Yellow Potatoes

Recipe excerpt from:
American Gravy
by Andrew Gruel

Sometimes when I come home late, I have to make a meal for the family with whatever is left in the fridge. We always keep a bag of Melissa’s Dutch Yellow Potatoes on hand, so I commonly revert back to this quick and simple classic. Most importantly, the kids and my boss love it.

This is a simple 2-step process. First, you cook the potatoes in boiling acidulated water. The vinegar acts to prevent the starch from breaking down. Next, you strain and slice the potatoes, then pan-sear them as if you were cooking scallops. Finish with some butter, sea salt, and fresh parmesan; you’re all set with a delicious meal (or side) in around 20 minutes.

About Dutch Yellow Potatoes. Dutch Yellow® Potatoes or DYPs®, are the perfect small potato. Grown in nutrient-rich volcanic soil, DYPs® are produced under the best conditions possible. These potatoes are round with golden yellow skin and creamy yellow flesh. DYPs® have a rich texture with a mixture of buttery and nutty flavors and the perfect amount of starchiness. Naturally resistant to greening and sprouting, they’re convenient to use and have a great shelf life.

Ingredients

  • One bag of Dutch Yellow Potatoes (about 1 lb)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar or cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon kosher or sea salt
  • fresh chives and fresh cracked peppers to garnish

Steps

Put your potatoes in a small sauce pot cover with cold water, add vinegar, and bring to a boil. Boil for about 15 minutes or until they are fork tender. Strain the potatoes and run cool water over them so they are easy to handle. Slice the in half. Get a saute pan hot and add the olive oil. Sear the potatoes on each side, or saute and flip, then finish with some whole butter off the heat. Garish with chives, salt and pepper and serve with a blizzard of fresh parmesan.

Show 495, October 15, 2022: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to talk about her recent evening at the relocated and reopened fine-dining Cyrus in Geyserville in the Alexander Valley of Sonoma County. Before the restaurant went on an unexpected hiatus 10-years ago Owner / Chef Douglas Keane’s highly regarded restaurant earned Two Michelin Stars. Business Partner and maire d’ Nick Peyton is also part of the revived establishment. It’s actually located in a vineyard. Anne Marie then continues with us in-studio talking about her current column highlighting the whirlwind culinary activities of Chefs Ross Pangilinan and Nick Weber at both South Coast Plaza and the nearby newly opened Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA.)

“Nestled in an oak tree-studded 40-acre vineyard located in the heart of Santa Barbara County, Roblar Winery and Vineyards reflects the spirit of Santa Ynez Wineries — rustic, authentic, and bold. Their philosophy is to showcase the variety and beauty that only Santa Ynez vineyards have to offer. With their diverse lineup of delicious wines, Roblar’s truly farm-to-table paired delights, a locally sourced food menu, and the fantastic estate-driven experiences, there’s truly no other Santa Ynez winery quite like Roblar.” Executive Chef Peter Cham is our guest.

It’s time to again share more of the very best in fruits and vegetables with our resident produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. We also know him as the “Prince of Produce.”

Halloween is almost upon us so it’s the season of Freaky Fruit®. “October is Freaky Fruit® month, highlighting the most exotic and intriguing of Mother Nature’s sweet bounty. A bit creepy to look at, but surprisingly delectable to eat, Freaky Fruit® is a must for the entire month leading up to a frightening finale on Halloween.” Specialty potatoes are a signature of Melissa’s. They can be baked, broiled, fried, mashed and made into hearty soups and flavorful salads. Melissa’s pioneered the grown in Idaho, Dutch Yellow Potatoes. Robert fills us in on all things potatoes.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partner JC Clow joins us to celebrate this achievement with Champagne flute in hand. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla. “The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience.”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Last week Chef Andrew got into a well-received discussion of butter. Saturday he’ll finish the conversation talking about the place for salted butter. From there Chef Andrew will talk about how margarine fits (or doesn’t fit) into the commercial or home kitchen.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 495, October 15, 2022: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Last week Chef Andrew got into a well-received, informative discussion of butter. Saturday he’ll finish the conversation talking about the place for salted butter. From there Chef Andrew will speak about how margarine fits (or perhaps doesn’t fit) into the commercial and home kitchen.

Chef Andrew and Lauren Gruel have a new fast casual concept, Burger 101, coming soon to the 2-level, Kitchen United complex on the 3rd St. Promenade in Santa Monica. It’s Chef Andrew’s version of a value-priced, honest burger (and loaded fries) using quality ingredients including a premium burger patty sourced from West Coast Prime Meats.

Chef Andrew is currently hosting a fun recipe contest to coincide with the opening of Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach. If your original recipe is the winner that dish permanently goes on Calico’s menu and every time you visit Calico Fish House you can enjoy your creation absolutely free for a full year. That’s a deal. Details on Calico’s Instagram feed.

October 15: Anne Marie Panoringan, Roblar Winery and Vineyards, Melissa’s Freaky Fruits, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist – Dining at Cyrus
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist – OC Restaurant News
Segment Four: Peter Cham, Executive Chef, Roblar Winery & Vineyards, Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Part One
Segment Five: Peter Cham, Executive Chef, Roblar Winery & Vineyards, Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Part Two
Segment Six: Robert Schueller, Melissa’s World Variety Produce’s “Prince of Produce” – Fruits and Everything Potatoes
Segment Seven: JC Clow, Founding Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tustin
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

We’re previewing the show with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris.

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. Anne Marie joins us in-studio to talk about her recent evening at the relocated and reopened fine-dining Cyrus in Geyserville in the Alexander Valley of Sonoma County. Before the restaurant went on an unexpected hiatus 10-years ago Owner / Chef Douglas Keane’s highly regarded restaurant earned Two Michelin Stars. Business Partner and maire d’ Nick Peyton is also part of the revived establishment. It’s actually located in a vineyard. Anne Marie then continues with us in-studio talking about her current column highlighting the whirlwind culinary activities of Chefs Ross Pangilinan and Nick Weber at both South Coast Plaza and the nearby newly opened Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA.)

“Nestled in an oak tree-studded 40-acre vineyard located in the heart of Santa Barbara County, Roblar Winery and Vineyards reflects the spirit of Santa Ynez Wineries — rustic, authentic, and bold. Their philosophy is to showcase the variety and beauty that only Santa Ynez vineyards have to offer. With their diverse lineup of delicious wines, Roblar’s truly farm-to-table paired delights, a locally sourced food menu, and the fantastic estate-driven experiences, there’s truly no other Santa Ynez winery quite like Roblar.” Executive Chef Peter Cham is our guest.

It’s time to again share more of the very best in fruits and vegetables with our resident produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. We also know him as the “Prince of Produce.”

Halloween is almost upon us so it’s the season of Freaky Fruit®. “October is Freaky Fruit® month, highlighting the most exotic and intriguing of Mother Nature’s sweet bounty. A bit creepy to look at, but surprisingly delectable to eat, Freaky Fruit® is a must for the entire month leading up to a frightening finale on Halloween.” Specialty potatoes are a signature of Melissa’s. They can be baked, broiled, fried, mashed and made into hearty soups and flavorful salads. Melissa’s pioneered the grown in Idaho, Dutch Yellow Potatoes. Robert fills us in on all things potatoes.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partner JC Clow joins us to celebrate this achievement with Champagne flute in hand. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla. “The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience.”

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries. Last week Chef Andrew got into a well-received discussion of butter. Saturday he’ll finish the conversation talking about the place for salted butter. From there Chef Andrew will talk about how margarine fits into the home kitchen and beyond.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Food Journalist Anne Marie Panoringan

Anne Marie Panoringan is Voice of OC’s well-informed food columnist. She reports industry news, current events and trends. The column publishes every other Friday. 

Anne Marie joins us in-studio to talk about her recent evening at the relocated, reopened and very exclusive fine-dining Cyrus in Geyserville in the Alexander Valley of Sonoma County. Before the restaurant went on an unexpected hiatus 10-years ago Owner / Chef Douglas Keane’s highly regarded restaurant earned Two Michelin Stars. Business Partner and maire d’ Nick Peyton is also part of the revived establishment. It’s actually located in a vineyard.

Anne Marie continues with us in-studio to talk about her current column highlighting the culinary activities of Chefs Ross Pangilinan and Nick Weber at both South Coast Plaza and the nearby newly opened Orange County Museum of Art.

Anne Marie also previews a few soon-to-open (or newly opened) restaurants in Huntington Beach and has a look at The Culinary Lab which is a subject of her upcoming Oct. 21st column.

Peter Cham of Roblar Winery and Vineyards

“Nestled in an oak tree-studded 40-acre vineyard located in the heart of Santa Barbara County, Roblar Winery and Vineyards reflects the spirit of Santa Ynez Wineries — rustic, authentic, and bold. Their philosophy is to showcase the variety and beauty that only Santa Ynez vineyards have to offer. With their diverse lineup of delicious wines, Roblar’s truly farm-to-table paired delights, a locally sourced food menu, and the uplifting estate-driven experiences, there’s truly no other Santa Ynez winery quite like Roblar.”

Some of the produce used on Chef Peter Cham’s weekly changing menu is sourced (and harvested daily) from the adjacent Roblar Farm. Also all the fresh eggs used at Roblar Kitchen come from the Farm. The Farm Bites Menu changes weekly. Thursday night Suppers at Roblar feature classic favorite dishes from Roblar’s menu along with some hearty supper dishes. Pizzas from the wood-fired oven are available on Weekends.

Chef Peter Cham takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us. He also serves as the Executive Chef for the other area Gleason Family Vineyard properties which include Refugio Ranch Vineyards and Buttonwood Winery and Vineyard.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA Studio

It’s time to again share more of the very best in fruits and vegetables with our resident produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. We also know him as the “Prince of Produce.”

Halloween is almost upon us so it’s the season of Freaky Fruit®. “October is Freaky Fruit® month, highlighting the most exotic and intriguing of Mother Nature’s sweet bounty. A bit creepy to look at, but surprisingly delectable to eat, Freaky Fruit® is a must for the entire month leading up to a frightening finale on Halloween.”

“Eaten out-of-hand, or added to desserts, baked goods, and other recipes, pomegranates, passion fruit, cherimoya, blood oranges, Buddha’s hand, dragon fruit, finger limes, cactus pears, kiwano melon, and rambutan have the wow-factor to make any dish truly spooktacular.”

Specialty potatoes are a signature of Melissa’s. They can be baked, broiled, fried, mashed and made into hearty soups and flavorful salads. Melissa’s pioneered the grown in Idaho, Dutch Yellow Potatoes. Robert fills us in on all things potatoes.

JC Clow of the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar located in The District in Tustin is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this month. Founding Partner JC Clow joins us with Champagne flute in hand to celebrate this achievement. There are now also thriving sister Winery Restaurants on the water in Newport Beach and in La Jolla.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is focused on successfully pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. When Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Chef Yvon Goetz set out 15 years ago to deliver a culinary experience straight from wine county, little did they know that they would also earn the title along the way of “Restaurateurs of the Year” for their achievements and have their restaurants in Newport Beach and Tustin earn the title of “Restaurant of the Year” multiple times!”

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

Last week Chef Andrew got into a well-received, informative discussion of butter. Saturday he’ll finish the conversation talking about the place for salted butter. From there Chef Andrew will speak about how margarine fits into the home kitchen and beyond.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist – Dining at Cyrus
Segment Three: Anne Marie Panoringan, Voice of OC’s Food Columnist – OC Restaurant News
Segment Four: Peter Cham, Executive Chef, Roblar Winery & Vineyards, Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Part One
Segment Five: Peter Cham, Executive Chef, Roblar Winery & Vineyards, Gleason Family Vineyards, Santa Ynez Part Two
Segment Six: Robert Schueller, Melissa’s World Variety Produce’s “Prince of Produce” – Fruits and Everything Potatoes
Segment Seven: JC Clow, Founding Partner, The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tustin
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 494, October 8, 2022: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host, with “Ask the Chef”

Chef Andrew Gruel of Big Parm and the Calico Fish House

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel the Founder of Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza), Two Birds and the soon to launch, full-service Calico Fish House (in Huntington Beach) provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where Chef Andrew responds to listeners thoughtful inquiries.

The Season of Holiday cooking is soon on the horizon…Is it always better with butter as culinary icon Julia Child suggested? Chef Andrew discusses the ins and outs of using butter in cooking. With the price of butter on the rise Chef Andrew also suggests some of his preferred brands. Chef Andrew explains with his usual insight.…

Chef Andrew is currently hosting a fun recipe contest to coincide with the opening of Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach. If your original recipe is the winner that dish permanently goes on Calico’s menu and every time you visit Calico Fish House you can enjoy your creation absolutely free for a full year. That’s a deal. Details on Calico’s Instagram feed.

Show 293, October 6, 2018: Charles Duque, Managing Director, French Dairy Board and French Cheese Board, New York

Charles DuqueIt’s all about butter with Charles Duque, the Managing Director for The French Dairy Board and the French Cheese Board. Indispensable to new culinary trends, butter is a source of inspiration that never grows old. Butter is an emblem of French cuisine.

Butter is an entirely natural product in its pure state. To make 35 oz. of butter, you need 23 quarts of milk.

Butter has survived for thousands of years. It has not aged in the slightest and is still smooth, soft and melting. Even through the ages, it has remained a natural and traditional product.

Butter production methods have remained virtually unchanged for 5,000 years. The churning system has been perfected over the centuries and health precautions have improved, especially with pasteurization, but, incredibly, the process has remained essentially the same.

We’ll find out why with Charles.

 

Show 269, April 14, 2018: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel

Now a tantalizing preview of Saturday’s decadent show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re here with you live every Saturday morning with a brand-new show.

The long and rich history of winemaking in California began in San Diego County more than two hundred years ago. Professor Richard Carrico</strong> is a Lecturer at San Diego State University and the author of Of Wine on The Lees Well Refined – A History of Wines & Wineries in San Diego County. Professor Carrico will be presenting a talk, “The Surprising History of Wine in San Diego County” for the Culinary Historians of San Diego on Saturday, April 21st @ 10:30 a.m. at the San Diego Central Library.

Lawry’s Restaurants Inc. announced the appointment of Alejandra Padilla as Executive Chef of the historic Five Crowns and SideDoor in Corona del Mar back in January. Chef Padilla recently introduced her new Spring Menu. Don’t forget Five Crowns as an excellent choice for Mom on Mother’s Day. Chef Padilla joins us with the highlights.

Come celebrate and be part of the 3rd Annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival that will take place on Sunday, May 6th, 2018 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Historic Pasadena Rose Bow! Masters of Taste 2018 will bring over 2,500 food and beverage enthusiasts together from all over Greater Los Angeles for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival. Founder & restaurateur Rob Levy and participating chef, Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Luk provide all the tempting details.

Almost 20 years ago restaurateur Joe Manzella (and his Family) debuted TAPS Fish House & Brewery in Downtown Brea. The popular establishment recently reopened after a $1.5- million remodeling. The comprehensive refresh comes as TAPS, one of the region’s most decorated breweries and a standout for its high-quality seafood, fine steaks, oyster bar and famous Las Vegas-style Sunday brunch, readies for its 20th anniversary next year. Joe is with us in-studio.

When it comes to wine jargon you sometimes hear the term “field blend.” What is it exactly? Our resident, and always intelligible, wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, explains all.

Also uncorked is Alsace’s Marcel Deiss winery, an example of a star producer exemplifying the spirit of a field blend.

The 12th Vegas Uncork’d is in the horizon for the fabled Las Vegas Strip the Weekend of May 10th thru Sunday, May 13. It’s a foodies paradise as most celebrity chefs represented on The Strip will be hosting an incredible assortment of high profile, one-of-a-kind food & libation events. Joining us to preview her three Vegas Uncorked celebrations is Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame. We’ll be there in the heart of the action, too, broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort on Saturday May 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, is back in-studio and continues with his “Ask the Chef” series. Today it’s Butter 411. These days butter is a bit of a maligned cooking fat. Olive oil seemingly remains supreme. It really can be better with butter as Julia Child gracefully told us over the years. Butter adds taste and flavor to recipes and a modest amount can go a long way. We’ll reflect on this as Chef Andrew puts the butter churn aside and has the flavorful specifics for us.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 269, April 14, 2018: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Andrew and William GruelOur always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, is back in-studio and continues with his Ask the Chef series.

Today it’s Butter 411. These days butter is a bit of a maligned cooking fat. Olive oil seemingly reigns supreme. It really can be better with butter as Julia Child told us over the years. Butter adds taste and flavor to recipes and a modest amount can go a long way.

We’ll reflect on this as Chef Andrew puts the butter churn aside and has the flavorful specifics for us.

 

April 14: Richard Carrico, Five Crowns, Masters of Taste, Taps Fish House & Brewery, Wine Exchange, Susan Feniger

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Professor Richard Carrico, Of Wine On The Lees Well Refined – A History Of Wines & Wineries In San Diego County
Segment Three: Alejandra Padilla, Executive Chef, Five Crowns and SideDoor, Corona del Mar
Segment Four: 3rd Annual Masters of Taste, The Rose Bowl
Segment Five: Joe Manzella, TAPS Fish House & Brewery, Brea
Segment Six: Kyle Meyer, Co-Founder, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Vegas Uncork’d Preview with Susan Feniger
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Now a tantalizing preview of this Saturday’s decadent show. It’s not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case, upon careful reflection, that’s probably a pretty good thing… Keep in mind we’re here with you live every Saturday morning with a brand-new show.

The long and rich history of winemaking in California began in San Diego County more than two hundred years ago. Professor Richard Carrico is a Lecturer at San Diego State University and the author of Of Wine on The Lees Well Refined – A History of Wines & Wineries in San Diego County. Professor Carrico will be presenting a talk, “The Surprising History of Wine in San Diego County” for the Culinary Historians of San Diego on Saturday, April 21st @ 10:30 a.m. at the San Diego Central Library.

Lawry’s Restaurants Inc. announced the appointment of Alejandra Padilla as Executive Chef of the historic Five Crowns and SideDoor in Corona del Mar back in January. Chef Padilla recently introduced her new Spring Menu. She joins us with the highlights.

Come celebrate and be part of the 3rd Annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival that will take place on Sunday, May 6th, 2018 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Historic Pasadena Rose Bowl! Masters of Taste 2018 will bring over 2,500 food and beverage enthusiasts together from all over Greater Los Angeles for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival. Founder Rob Levy and participating chef, Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Luk provide all the tempting details.

Almost 20 years ago restaurateur Joe Manzella (and his Family) debuted TAPS Fish House & Brewery in Downtown Brea. The popular establishment recently reopened after a $1.5- million remodeling. The comprehensive refresh comes as TAPS, one of the region’s most decorated breweries and a standout for its high-quality seafood, fine steaks, oyster bar and famous Las Vegas-style Sunday brunch, readies for its 20th anniversary next year. Joe is with us in-studio.

When it comes to wine jargon you sometimes hear the term “field blend.” What is it exactly? Our resident, and always intelligible, wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, explains all.

Also uncorked is Alsace’s Marcel Deiss winery, an example of a star producer exemplifying the spirit of a field blend., blend.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4E6WGeza04&t=645s

The 12th Vegas Uncorked is in the horizon for the fabled Las Vegas Strip the Weekend of May 10th thru Sunday, May 13. It’s a foodies paradise as most celebrity chefs represented on The Strip will be hosting an incredible assortment of high profile, one-of-a-kind food & libation events. Joining us to preview her pair of Vegas Uncorked celebrations is Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame. We’ll be there in the heart of the action, too, broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort on Saturday May 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon.

Our always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, is back in-studio and continues with his “Ask the Chef” series. Today it’s Butter 411. These days butter is a bit of a maligned cooking fat. Olive oil seemingly remains supreme. It really can be better with butter as Julia Child gracefully told us over the years. Butter adds taste and flavor to recipes and a modest amount can go a long way. We’ll reflect on this as Chef Andrew puts the butter churn aside and has the flavorful specifics for us.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Richard CarricoThe long and rich history of winemaking in California began in San Diego County more than two hundred years ago. Professor Richard Carrico is a Lecturer at San Diego State University and the author of Of Wine on The Lees Well Refined – A History of Wines & Wineries in San Diego County. Professor Carrico will be presenting a talk, “The Surprising History of Wine in San Diego County” for the Culinary Historians of San Diego on Saturday, April 21st @ 10:30 a.m. at the Neil Morgan Auditorium at San Diego Central Library.

Carrico will guide the audience on a visual trip through wine’s long San Diego County history as he weaves an enlightening tale of vineyards, grape stomping, murders, Prohibition, and the near death and recovery of the County’s wine industry.

Professor Carrico earned Bachelor degrees in History and Anthropology from San Diego State, and has a Master’s degree in History from the University of San Diego. Carrico has studied wine-making at UC Davis.

The event is free and open to the public. A tasting and book-signing will follow the presentation.

Professor Carrico departs the lush San Diego County vineyards to join us.

Alejandra PadillaLawry’s Restaurants Inc. announced the appointment of Alejandra Padilla as Executive Chef of Five Crowns and SideDoor in Corona del Mar back in January. Chef Padilla recently introduced her new Spring menu. She joins us.

Featuring the season’s freshest flavors to compliment the restaurant’s classic dishes, the colorful Spring menu welcomes several new small plates such as the Smoked Octopus with meyer lemon yogurt, spring peas and pickled red onions, main dishes like the Coffee Rubbed Short Rib with broccolini, tomato petals, grilled leeks, horseradish gremolata and bordelaise and desserts including the Cheesecake with carrot cake crumbles, walnut ice cream and carrot chips.

Chef Padilla comes to Five Crowns and SideDoor from Hillstone Restaurant Group, where she served as Culinary Manager since 2015. Prior to joining Hillstone, Padilla moved up the ranks at Patina Restaurant Group where she started in 2010 as Sous Chef at La Fonda Del Sol in New York before moving to Los Angeles to take a position as Sous Chef at Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse. She was quickly promoted to Executive Chef, a position she served at two different Market Café locations in Los Angeles.

Chef Alejandra appeared on Cooking Channel’s Unique Eats in 2010 and was also the winner of the Season 6 premier episode of Food Network’s, Chopped in 2011.

Vanda AsapahuCome celebrate and be part of the 3rd Annual Masters of Taste, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival that will take place on Sunday, May 6th, 2018 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Historic Pasadena Rose Bowl! Masters of Taste 2018 will bring over 2,500 food and beverage enthusiasts together from all over Greater Los Angeles for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival.

Founder Rob Levy and participating chef, Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Luk, provide all the tempting details.

The 3rd Masters of Taste will include the finest fare from over 40 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from 25 spirit brands and bars, a premier 50 yard-line cocktail bar featuring top Mixologists from four of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking destinations, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.

100% of the proceeds from Masters of Taste 2018 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping homeless men, women and children rebuild their lives. Union Station is part of a premier group of human services agencies in Los Angeles County that are leading the way to end homelessness in our community and offers an array of services including street outreach, meals, shelter, housing, case management and career development. In the last two years Masters of Taste has raised nearly $1 Million in support of Union Station’s life-saving programs.

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2018 will take place on Sunday, May 6th, 2018. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Tickets to this event are only available for guests 21+ and over.  For more information on Masters of Taste 2018 or to book your tickets directly, just go right here to order them.

Joe Manzella of Taps Fish House and Brewery and the CatchAlmost 20 years ago restaurateur Joe Manzella (and his Family) debuted TAPS Fish House & Brewery in Downtown Brea. It was an expensive undertaking and a major risk at the time.

The popular locals’ favorite establishment recently reopened after a $1.5 -million remodeling. The comprehensive refresh comes as TAPS, one of the region’s most decorated breweries and a standout for its high-quality seafood, fine steaks, oyster bar and famous Las Vegas-style Sunday brunch, readies for its 20th anniversary next year.

“It’s a big-picture renovation that simply says that after close to 20 years of high-volume business, we’re ready for a major refresh,” said Manzella, who opened the original TAPS with his sister, Michele, and their late father, Fred.

“The basic bones of the building remain,” said Manzella, referring to the iconic building’s 85,000 bricks, bow-string trusses and cherry wood. “It’s a classic architectural beauty and will always be a welcome decor aesthetic.”

“This business is about intriguing the guests, be it with innovative food, spirits or ambiance,” Manzella said. “You can’t stand still. Our loyal following and new guests deserve the best, and our job is to be constantly reviewing everything and doing it better.”

The newest enterprise for the Manzella Restaurant GroupTAPS Brewery & Barrel Room, will open in Tustin by the Legacy development in late spring 2018.

Joe is with us in-studio.

Kyle Meyer of Wine ExchangeWhen it comes to wine jargon you sometimes hear the term “field blend.” What is it exactly? Our resident, and always intelligible, wine authority, Kyle Meyer of Santa Ana’s Wine Exchange, explains all.

Also Alsace’s Marcel Deiss winery (Father & Son duo) is an example of a star producer exemplifying the spirit of a field blend. It’s about the terroir.

Susan Feniger of Mud Hen TavernThe 12th Vegas Uncork’d is in the horizon for the fabled Las Vegas Strip the Weekend of May 10th thru Sunday, May 13. It’s a foodies paradise as most celebrity chefs represented on The Strip will be hosting an incredible assortment of high profile, one-of-a-kind food & libation events. Joining us to preview her pair of Vegas Uncork’d celebrations is Susan Feniger of Border Grill fame.

We’ll be there in the heart of the action, too, broadcasting from Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Resort on Saturday May 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon.

Susan’s first event is Tequila & Salsa With Susan Feniger” on Thursday, May 10th from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Border Grill at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

“The perfect event for tequila and taco lovers alike, or anyone who loves a good time. Join Too Hot Tamale and celebrity chef Susan Feniger for an exhilarating evening at Border Grill.  Enjoy unlimited signature tacos, ceviches, seafood cocktails, top-shelf tequila cocktails, and a salsa dance lesson to get everyone moving on the dance floor!”

Susan’s 2nd Uncorked event is Master Series – Women’s Power Lunch & Conversation” on Saturday, May 12th from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Border Grill, Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

“This lunch is unlike anything you’ve experienced before! Get up close and personal with chefs Susan Feniger, Christina Tosi, Elizabeth Blau, Saipin Chutima, Nicole Brisson, and others at Border Grill in The Forum Shops for a panel discussion and lunch celebrating all things female! Guests will indulge in a delicious meal prepared by a team of all-women chefs, sip on curated wines from female winemakers, and indulge in tastings of top-shelf tequila from a women-operated distillery in this first-ever event at Vegas Uncork’d.”

Andrew and William GruelOur always informed Co-Host, Chef Andrew Gruel, is back in-studio and continues with his Ask the Chef series.

Today it’s Butter 411. These days butter is a bit of a maligned cooking fat. Olive oil seemingly reigns supreme. It really can be better with butter as Julia Child told us over the years. Butter adds taste and flavor to recipes and a modest amount can go a long way.

We’ll reflect on this as Chef Andrew puts the butter churn aside and has the flavorful specifics for us.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Co-Hosts Andy Harris & Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Professor Richard Carrico, Of Wine On The Lees Well Refined – A History Of Wines & Wineries In San Diego County
Segment Three: Alejandra Padilla, Executive Chef, Five Crowns and SideDoor, Corona del Mar
Segment Four: 3rd Annual Masters of Taste, The Rose Bowl
Segment Five: Joe Manzella, TAPS Fish House & Brewery, Brea
Segment Six: Kyle Meyer, Co-Founder, Wine Exchange, Santa Ana
Segment Seven: Vegas Uncork’d Preview with Susan Feniger
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel’s “Ask the Chef”

Show 168, April 23, 2016: Hima Pandya, Tin Star Foods

Hima PandyaOne of the unusual finds at the recent Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim was Tin Star Foods. They produce Cultured Ghee and Cultured Brown Butter in small batchers.

Tin Star Foods Founder, Hima Pandya, is our guest. Of course there is an inspirational story connected with the establishment of the enterprise.

“Tin Star Foods is the home for high quality Non GMO foods. We believe that good food should be accessible and easy to find. By stripping all of the junk and fillers, we are providing you with pure, clean, nutrient dense foods. We have vowed to make this a place where our customers can feel at ease purchasing products needed to sustain a healthy lifestyle.”

“Our Cultured Ghee is perfection in butter form. We slow cook our cultured butter over an open flame, just the way Hima, the owner, learned from her mama. It’s got a rich buttery flavor that allows any dish to come alive with little effort. High in K2, D, E, and Tonalin CLA, it’s a no brainer to add it to your daily meal plan. Its extremely high heat threshold of 485 degrees makes it perfect for the stove top or grilling. Ghee is a dream to bake with and delicious in coffee too.”

“Our Brown Butter, lovingly called a Caramel Kiss of Perfection, is just that. It’s buttery, nutty, caramel in a bottle. We gently allow the milk solids to toast allowing the flavor profile of this gorgeous ghee to develop. Just like our trademark Cultured Ghee, it is lab tested Lactose and Casein free. It’s the perfect pairing for an afternoon scone or in your buttered coffee in the morning. Our customers love to grill and bake with it, as the deep rich flavor is unparalleled.”

“Ghee has been used in kitchens throughout India for thousands of years. More importantly, its heavy usage is due to the laundry list of health benefits (which we’ll get to in “why”). While the cooks in the kitchen were (and are) putting it in every dish possible, the Ayurvedic Doctors relied on its healing properties to treat patients. That’s right, they were building entire treatment centers in India around this special product before we knew what electricity was.”

“Fast forward to current days, it seems that everyone is asking where you can get some. The Paleo community depends on it as one of the top 3 fat sources in their diets right next to Coconut oil and Tallow. If you haven’t heard about ghee yet, you will, we promise. It’s just a matter of time.”