Cook-Off February

Once in a while, friends and I would organise a cook-off. Its a great opportunity to get together a group foodies to share food and drink ideas. Sometimes they turn out well, at other times, well...like a tornado ripped through the kitchen!  

Cook off this day was a battle of the sexes, each was allocated a course or drink and off we went. The boys had home ground advantage so the girls came prepared for a mighty challenge.

The night started off with drinks made by the boys - the French 75. A cocktail made from gin, prosecco, lemon juice and sugar - mmm gin.
(Bugger, I forgot to take a photo!)

A Cold Plate starter was served first to go with the cocktails. A cheeseboard of fresh cut strawberries, torn sage leaves from my little herb garden with white anchovies, and thin slices of parma di prosciutto.

A cook-off with me, would probably never be without oysters! Our next course was the Bloody Mary Sydney Rock Oyster Shooters with finely chopped parsley.

Next served were the Oysters with Tetsuya's Vinaigrette - the dressing was divine I need to steal the recipe!

Then followed was the Scallop Vodka Ceviche - fresh Hokkaido scallops marinated in vodka, dill, lemon juice and olive oil, sliced thinly and served chilled.

Once the starters were done (yes, that was just the starter!), we moved onto the entree. First served was the mixed tomatoes, basil and torn mozzarella salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. 

Then followed by the Grilled Butterfly Garlic King Prawns with butter and parsley. I love cooking prawns at home - its easy and delicious, and because we get to control the cooking process, the prawns are never overcooked or dry!

For the main, we had the Roast Lamb Rack with Sauteed Baby Asparagus Spears and Creamy Mash.  The lamb was cooked perfectly pink, oh-so-tender and juicy. The mash was creamy and fluffy and the side greens well seasoned - Drool!

To finish, freshly baked lemon tart with mixed berries and vanilla ice-cream. A light, tangy and palate cleansing end to our very hearty and satisfying meal.

Who won the challenge? I was too full to decide - both sides clearly put their best efforts in and it may take a few more cook-offs to determine.

Now... Back to drinking! Can't wait till the next cook-off!

xx