On the Menu: January 17 to January 23

by jbfauthor on January 15, 2010

Here’s what happening at the Beard House next week: Wednesday, January 20, 12:00 P.M. Beard on Books Winner of the 2009 JBF Cookbook Award, Fat: An Appreciation of a Misunderstood Ingredient with Recipes is Jennifer McLagan's defense of this unfairly maligned food. Backed by science and common sense, the cook and food stylist convincingly argues that fat is an indispensable nutrient. She also reminds us that it's a capable vehicle for flavor: using popular recipes, like the B.L.T. and french fries, McLagan proves that fat takes foods to new heights. Wednesday, January 20, 7:00 P.M. Northwestern Seafood Extravaganza 2009 JBF Award nominee Ethan Stowell understands that sophisticated audiences won’t sit still for the same performance night after night. With menus that change daily at his four critically acclaimed restaurants, this Seattle superstar chef keeps things interesting, delighting diners with his masterful, refined Pacific Northwest cuisine. Thursday, January 21, 7:00 P.M. French–Asian Fusion Chef and restaurateur Michael M. Wei returns to the Beard House with the team of chefs behind his celebrated eateries. Asian ingredients embolden classical French preparations in the group’s impeccable menu, which will be served with a selection of biodynamic wines from Bonterra Vineyards. Friday, January 22, 7:00 P.M. Virginia Farm to Table With experience at the aggressively avant-garde El Bulli under his belt, Christopher Edwards finds a natural balance between showstopping presentation and committed farm-to-table cookery. His tastefully creative and seasonal fare earns perennial raves at the idyllic Restaurant at Patowmack Farm in northern Virginia. Saturday, January 23, 7:00 P.M. Fennel Fête While pitted against each other on the Food Network’s Chopped, Michael Giletto and Alina Eisenhauer discovered that they share a common philosophy: great cuisine should be seasonal, forward-thinking, and impeccably presented. The two friends will reunite at the Beard House for a fennel-themed dinner—with no need to race against the clock. For details and reservations, visit www.jamesbeard.org/events or call 212.627.2308. (Photo by Eileen Miller)