My name is Renee. I discovered food when I was 11 yrs. old, when I was given the food shopping/making dinner assignment. Let me tell you, we were on a tight budget - I did wonders with chicken legs! Actually, to this day my sisters and I have not consumed a single chicken leg (ugh!). However, from this I gained independence in the kitchen - watch out!
Now, I throw extravagant dinner parties, even those where my guests dress in period - like ganstas and flappers - while I serve up a roaring twenties feast! One of my most memorable delights was a volcano cake (thanks to Jaques Pepin!). Breyers vanilla ice cream, softened with a nip of cognac, molded into a volcano-shape, press pound cake all around the outside, freeze, then spread fluffy meringue over the pound cake and bake @ 400 for 5 minutes until the outside is golden brown. Place a half of a hollowed out lemon on the top, fill with warmed brandy til just overflowing and ignite - like a flaming volcano!! Wow, I'm getting inspired just writing about it again. Don't forget the edible flowers all around the base of this masterpiece!
I'm also an avid yard sale junkie always looking for treasures. I love vintage clothing. But my collectors' passion is for cookbooks. I have quite a collection. It might even impress the CIA (Culinary Institute, that is). I read different cookbooks every night until I find a recipe that inspires me to throw a party.
Someday I would love to own a small brownstone/café and serve delicious dinners. I dream about it often. As my mother says, "If you can dream it; you can do it." We shall see. So-there you have it. My favorite letter in the alphabet is "F" It covers everything I love - Food, Fun, Friends, Family, Fashion, Finances! Ok - let's not go there!
Bon appetit
Renee
July 25, 2006
