Last week, I attended an exclusive dinner event hosted by Get Crackin (Wonderful Pistachios), along with our very own, Portland Chef Jason French. Perfect timing for this Holiday season? I think so.
This event was very special in the sense that it was going to be themed around one item: Pistachios. Now, I’m not talking about just snacking on Pistachios or indulging on one of my favorite desserts, Pistachio Ice Cream…but as in incorporating pistachios in appetizers and even main dishes. Yes, my curiosity went up on high alert.
The dinner took place at Elder Hall (right next to Chef Jason French’s restaurant, Ned Ludd). This was my first time visiting this location and I had found it to be so quaint, cozy, and made me so excited for the Holiday Season. The decor was simple with country accents; but it even made you feel as if you were in a cute cottage in the outskirts of London during a cold, winter evening.
It was a night to chat, drink, and enjoy a wonderful time eating food. Everyone was so lovely and it was great to meet other bloggers, food aficionados; as well as magazine publishers, radio hosts, and even Youtubers. From the appetizers, to the wine, and even dessert…it was all inspiring. To think you can make so much with one simple ingredient, completely blew my mind away. I never would have thought to incorporate pistachios in a meal. Every bite pleased my taste buds.
I walked out learning something new and discovering something different. It was also a reminder that you cannot restrict something to only one purpose, but that there are numerous ways you can incorporate something and create a whole new experience. Even a drink! Everything I tasted, I absolutely loved. I think my top two was the Chile Mole (I’m a sucker for Mole) and the dessert which reminded me of Crème brûlée & flan all in the same time (which I’m also a sucker for).
Will I be expanding my baking and cooking horizons? Yes. Do I have a whole new respect for pistachios? Absolutely, (proof that I’ve already eaten 3 bags worth – Slightly Salted, Salt & Pepper – my FAV, and Sweet Chili). I might just have to add those flavors onto my Christmas List this year!
Hope these photos will inspire you to venture out with an ingredient and take it to a whole new level. Please share with me your Pistachio recipes and be sure to use hashtag #PopOfWonderful. Would love to know and see some photos!
Special Thanks:
Spiced Carrot Soup, Pistachio Relish
Chilled Soba Noodle Salad, Sweet Chili Pistachios, Cucumber & Daikon Radish
Cacao & Chile Mole, Pistachio Crusted Cod, Spaghetti Squash, Queso Fresco & Lime Crema
Coffee Crusted Beef Short Ribs, Celery Root, Pistachio Crumble
Vanilla Bean & Pistachio Creme Caramel, Brown Butter Sablee
