SippitySup

We had a rare and romantic Sippity Suppers recently as we celebrated a 60th wedding anniversary at my house. No, it wasn’t my anniversary.

But if it were my anniversary I think a dinner with friends and family would be exactly the way I’d like to celebrate. So I was honored when one of the couple’s sons asked if Ken and I would be willing to host this special dinner. Though I’ll admit I felt the pressure of this awesome responsibility. After all, 60 years with one person is an accomplishment. I’d even say a rare accomplishment. So I really put a lot of effort in choosing just the right menu.

Not only did I want include the foods they requested, I wanted them to seem special enough for the occasion. The menu also had to be comfortable, approachable and well-suited to a springtime afternoon. Ken paired all my courses with a wine, using his burgeoning wine skills.

One of the particular challenges was the fact that the meal was to be served in the afternoon. You see, the couple’s kids and grand kids all live in Seattle. They were flying in for the dinner (which was a surprise) and were flying back to Seattle that very same evening. As you can imagine there was very little room for me to screw up.

I’m proud to say that there were very few (noticeable) screw-ups! I forgot the hazelnuts on the salad and that was about the only blunder. What a relief. Mazal tov to the happy couple and thanks for including Ken and me in your special day. GREG

appetizers
Beluga Caviar with Traditional Accompaniments
Edamame Almond and Mint Crostini
Veuve Cliquot NV
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amuse bouche
Chilled California Avocado Soup with Bloody Mary Ceviche
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first course
Orange Beet and Red Orange Salad
2011 Pascal Janvier Jasnieres, Loire Valley
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second course
Slow Roasted Wild Alaskan Salmon, Chanterelle and Asparagus Risotto with Bourbon Smoked Black Pepper
2010 Talley Pinot Noir, Arroyo Grande Valley
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third course
Roasted Game Hen with Fresh Peas in a Butter Sauce on a Bed of Red Cabbage
2011 Domaine Guiberteau Saumur, France
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fourth course

Cheeses: Nancy’s Camembert, Roaring 40s Bleu and L’Amuse Signature Gouda
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dessert
Sweet Lady Jane Chocolate Candied Orange Cake
2006 Hawk and Horse Vineyards Latigo Dessert Wine, Napa
Coffee or Tea