The James Beard Foundation does it again. Artistically prepared, seductive Mexcican food paired with assorted mezcal all night long..now that’s a Seduction Meal!
Sean Yontz, recognized as one of Denver’s top chef’s with a passion for Latin influenced cuisine, and Chris Douglas, known for artfully combining his experience and love of fine dining with the flavors and flair of central Mexico; togetgher hosted the Contemporary Mexican Celebration at the James Beard Foundation creating one artistic culinary masterpiece after the other.
They were joined by Ron Cooper, founder of New Mexico based Del Maguey whose prized mezcals are produced in small quantities which may help explain their prices: $40 to $200 per bottle. Here’s a link to some of Ron’s Mescal recipes: you’ve got to love names like "Fire Between the Thighs" and "The Xiuhtecuhtli O (The Fire God)" or "Chocolate and Mezcal Volcano Cakes".
Hors d’Oeuvres Tastings
Butter Poached Spiny Lobster with Crisp Potato Cakes
Foie Gras Torchon with Carmelized Plaintains and Onion Salsa
Tuna Nachos with Guacamole and Fresno Peppers
Huitlachoche Quesadillas with Smoked Jalapeno Salsa (looked more like empanadas to me)
Smokin’ Marg > Del Maguey Blanco Mezcal with Orange and Lime Juices and Cointreau or,
Dinner
Cochinita Pibil > 24-Hour Roasted Suckling Pig Tamale with Potato, Rajas, Oaxacan Mole Negro, and Queso Fresco
Del Maguey Mezcal San Luis del Rio
Chorizo-Wrapped Scallop with Blood Orange-Habanero Butter Sauce, Celeriac Purée, and Fried Carrots
Del Maguey Mezcal Minero
Albóndigas > Veal Meatballs with Housemade Pasta, Oregano Pesto, White Truffle, and Cotija Cheese
Del Maguey Santa Domingo Albaarradas
Huachinango Veracruzano > Mexican Red Snapper Escabèche with Tomato Confit, Black Olive, Artichoke, Haricots Verts Escabèche, and Garlic Chips
Del Maguey Mezcal Chichicapa
Costilla de Borrego > Banana Leaf-Wrapped Achiote-Rubbed Colorado Lamb Chop with Chayote Squash and Root Vegetables
Del Maguey Tobalá
Churros y Cajeta > Mexican Fried Doughnuts with Del Maguey Crema Cajeta and Almond Ice Cream
Del Maguey Crema de Mezcal
