RECAP

For the newbees (which is just about everyone who isn't related to me)Here is the mission statement of this blog. There's a fine line between chef and clown As a wise chef once told me, while we both observed a co-worker wearing chef pants with a chilli pepper print on them, "remember Mark, there's a fine line between chef and clown".I'm reminded of how true this statemant is today as I watch "chefs" Guy Fieri and Anne Burell shuck and jive and dance around in their spiked hair and their pinky rings while teaching us how to make pulled pork sushi rolls with wasabi gravy! (seriously, WTF?!?)This recipe sounds familiar to me for some reason,what is it,oh yea,august 12th 1988 3:00 am, home from a San Diego State frat party featuring a keg of Meister Brau, my 3 friends and I made this very dish. It was epic. Anyways,while I was sitting there lamenting that this great and proud profession is often given the face of the court jester,I decided to set up this blog and and polling site to weigh in with my opinion on contempory chefs and food personallities,and to collect your opinions as well.So enjoy,read,comment,vote,and remember,Escoffier wouldn't be caught dead in a pair of chili pepper pants!

The Vote Is Tallied For Rick Bayless

Rick Bayless, after studying Spanish and Latin American studies as an undergrad and doing doctoral work in Anthropological Linguistics at the University of Michigan, lived in Mexico and wrote a now classic cookbook on authentic Regional Mexican cooking. Soon after he moved to Chicago and opened the Frontera Grill. Two years later, he opened Topolobampo, one of Americas only fine dinning Mexican restaurants. He has been the recipient of several James Beard Awards and is regarded as a top consultant,teacher,restaurateur, and as far as we are concerned here at Chef or Clown, CHEF!

Cod w/ spicey lamb sauce, tomatoes and romano beans

For one.

The Vote is in on Bourdain

We had our largest voter turnout so far and the result for Anthony Bourdain is...TV Personality!.I would have to agree although my vote was for chef, I do have to give credit to the guy for putting in the work.The way my feet,back,hands,and head hurt right now, I wouldn't mind a little TV personality myself! Thanks for voting!!

Anne Burrell

Ok, I don't know what this chick has ever done besides go to culinary school,realize she wasn't cut out for restaurant work, meet Mario Batali, copy Guy Fieri's hair-do and dance a jig on the food network,if she has legit chops let me know.But for now------CLOWN!!!!!

PIGEON

Roast Pigeon with Porcini, Morel, and Chanterelle.

Because Sometimes You Just Have To Cook a Pork Belly in its Own Fat,Over a Wood Fire.

Pork Fat,Gods Gift to Mankind.