New Adventures on the Horizon

Since it has been a while in my adventure writing, I will fill you in on what I have been up to. This spring and summer I am doing a co-op placement at a hotel here in town. The Economic Crisis has finally reared its ugly head in my world, things the past weeks have been slow... So as there are plenty of jobs in culinary, I will now be working at two hotels in HRM! I am excited by this venture as not only am I already working with Award winning Chef Sean Ducet and his team, I now have the unbelievable opportunity of working with Chef Luis Clavel and his team. Chef Clavel has won awards such as Iron Chef, several other awards and most recently has won the regional award in The Canadian Culinary Federation (CCFCC) Competition. It will be an amazing summer getting to participate in such unique and different styles from wonderful teachers.

A few weeks ago we volunteered our time and labour to an event for Habitat for Humanity called Raise a Little Hellp. The event raised funds for a family that needed a home. The goal was reached and then some. The food spread was unbelievable, with decadent desserts, a seafood station that made your mouth water consisting of pan seared scallops, shrimp, lobster risotto, mussels, salmon... garnishes to match, beef that melted in your mouth. Hand rolled sushi, hand made passed hor d'ourves, cheese from around the world, local breads and several other stations with wine and drinks to compliment. The food had rave reviews and the 500 guests were talking about the event long after it ended. Food truly is the way to the heart and home is where the heart is. Glad I could help participate in such a worth cause. If you would like to help a family in need you too can contribute!
www.habitathrm.com

Last week I had the delight to fillet a halibut that was almost as big as I. Working with meat and fish has always been a favorite of mine and the raccoons had a visit to my clothes line at the end of the day!

The fundamentals of cooking... working on stocks, sauces, meats, fish, every aspect of the kitchen and having the freedom to be creative, laying down the building blocks that will allow me to succeed is on my list of goals this summer. Building my strong foundation for things to come and having mentors that have a vested interest in getting me there is my adventure for the season. I could not ask for better classrooms to nurture my love for culinary then where I am at right now.

This weekend brings the NS Seafood Festival where chefs from around the region will showcase some of there best creations. competitions, wines music and more. Come out and have a taste, hope to see you all there!
http://www.novascotiaseafoodfestival.com !

As every hard working aspiring chef needs a little break I am off sailing in beautiful Halifax for the day to practice for the upcoming Women's Sailing Provincials. Should be great! But somehow I'd rather be in the kitchen. Until next time happy adventures!