Odds 'n' Ends

Have not been at my brightest, scintillating best over the past few days and feeling a little more sociable yesterday we invited friends over for dinner in the evening. Apart from anything else it was an opportunity to play in the kitchen for the afternoon as well spending a convivial evening chez nous.

As usual the question of menu arose. I fancied cooking something just a little different so I had a rummage around on t'Web. One of my friends, despite a long RAF career with postings all over the world in the past and now retired, was to my incredulity an Indian cuisine virgin! Nevr, not no 'ow had he ever tried any dishes from the Indian sub-continent. We had discussed this a number of times and I thought the time was ripe. To be safe, however, I had a more Western style dish as well so that he could choose having sampled the Indian dish in the kitchen.

For a starter I prepared what seemed a bit of a gamble - 44 Garlic Clove Soup Must admit that I was a little concerned that any werewolves or vampires within a 50km radius might take to the hills ... Need not have worried about it as the finished dish was unbelievably subtle in taste and one of the nicest soups that I have ever tasted, relief all round as it was consumed with obvious relish and requests for seconds. Sadly there was only sufficient for four servings, but there's always another day.

Indian main course was one of my favourite curries, chicken passanda, very gentle, creamy with a hint of coconut and cream, subtle spices and no heat. My friend, having tasted it was very surprised as the the subtlety of the passanda and his face was a picture of delight! The otherdish which I had cooked which we are having for dinner this evening was a tartiflette, a traditional French dish with smoked lardons, onions, potatoes, white wine, creme fraiche and grated cheese cooked slowly in the oven.

It was very rewarding that the curry went down very well and was followed by a request for the recipe for all three dishes. The meal was accompanied by a naughty local rosé wine which we all like, then a dessert and coffee.

All in all a very pleasant evening spent in the company of very good friends.