What a wonderful foodie experience we had with Allison and Eric Smith (Bill & Jane's daughter and son) at Contigo Restaurant in Ausin. The restaurant was the dream of a Texas family who owns a large ranch in So. Texas and they wanted to replicate their dining/entertainment in a restaurant. And, did they ever succeed. What a wonderful place - the service impecable and the food was outstanding.
We started with Popcorn tossed with peanuts, cinnamon & cayenne - delicious.
Moved on to three Charcuterie orders:
(not a good picture, but we dug in before I could get my camera out)
Top: Pork Liver Pate, Eggplant Fritter, Contigo Ranch Honey (the taste of pate, honeyed fritter together was a perfect bite)
Bottom: Foie Gras Torchon, Foie Gras Corn Dog, caramelized apple puree, (made in house) Brioche. (have never had this quality of Torchon before - think the freshest, sweetest butter melting in your mouth. And the corn dog w/apple puree - heaven)
Third charcuterie: Face Bacon: (cheeks, snout, ears,tongue) with pickled tomatillos. I loved the flavor and the texture which managed to be subtly different with each 'chew' - not too beautifully described, but I don't have the words. )
Roy and Eric had: the Daily Fresh Sausage with Baguette, Dijon, Onions, French Fries (Eric) or sauerkraut (Roy) and deep fried battered green beans - the beans were quite tasty.
Allison had:Mussels with Yellow Curry, Coconut Milk, and mint - the broth was scrumptious.
I had: Octopus with radish, frisee, lardons, hominy, and Chili broth
I can't believe I have not prepared octopus before, but I'm going to look for it now and play.
Bill & Jane, you have the most wonderful family and I hope someday we can also spend some time with Bert and Holly!! I'm ready to adopt Allison and Eric away from you, but could I handle 10 kids??????
Allison has today off, so after she sleeps in a tad, we're off exploring Austin. Another oil/vinegar plant is in the schedule and don't know what else yet.
We started with Popcorn tossed with peanuts, cinnamon & cayenne - delicious.
Moved on to three Charcuterie orders:
(not a good picture, but we dug in before I could get my camera out)
Top: Pork Liver Pate, Eggplant Fritter, Contigo Ranch Honey (the taste of pate, honeyed fritter together was a perfect bite)
Bottom: Foie Gras Torchon, Foie Gras Corn Dog, caramelized apple puree, (made in house) Brioche. (have never had this quality of Torchon before - think the freshest, sweetest butter melting in your mouth. And the corn dog w/apple puree - heaven)
Third charcuterie: Face Bacon: (cheeks, snout, ears,tongue) with pickled tomatillos. I loved the flavor and the texture which managed to be subtly different with each 'chew' - not too beautifully described, but I don't have the words. )
Roy and Eric had: the Daily Fresh Sausage with Baguette, Dijon, Onions, French Fries (Eric) or sauerkraut (Roy) and deep fried battered green beans - the beans were quite tasty.
Allison had:Mussels with Yellow Curry, Coconut Milk, and mint - the broth was scrumptious.
I had: Octopus with radish, frisee, lardons, hominy, and Chili broth
I can't believe I have not prepared octopus before, but I'm going to look for it now and play.
Bill & Jane, you have the most wonderful family and I hope someday we can also spend some time with Bert and Holly!! I'm ready to adopt Allison and Eric away from you, but could I handle 10 kids??????
Allison has today off, so after she sleeps in a tad, we're off exploring Austin. Another oil/vinegar plant is in the schedule and don't know what else yet.
Retired and having fun writing cookbooks, tasting wine and sharing recipes with all my friends.
www.achefsjourney.com
www.achefsjourney.com