Three - A Number Al Knows Too Well (teehee)

 Things are hotting up in our kitchen as Al stepped up to the plate and cooked his debut meal in the Ultimate Cook-off! We had quite a few guest judges this time round so there was quite a bit of pressure! Nonetheless, Al did a sterling job and decided to go for a classic in his repertoire, a delicious, spicy and warming Thai Green curry. Terrified of under-catering, he bought about four packs of mushrooms and about 12 chicken breasts for seven people! Never mind - we had deeelicious left overs for lunch the next day. 


Sorry, I digress - back to the beginning...

Al used an array of wonderful fresh veges - red peppers, mushrooms, aubergines, green beans and onion. He made a paste of chili, garlic and ginger and added ready-made Thai Green Curry paste. Oh and obviously the chicken. We put it together in one glorious pot that was bursting with flavour and made the house smell like a fragrant Thai restaurant. Mm how I wish I was on holiday. 

 This is Al finishing up his masterpiece. So dashing, so debonair and the food was so delicious. He served the curry with rice in lovely deep bowls garnished with coriander. Everyone scored Al really well on taste - with his highest score being 34 out of 35! Nice one! He scored well for drinks pairings as we had a selection of not only red and white, but also champagne! 

 Introducing our guest judges for the evening: 
Pictured left is Bongani - partner to Brucee, opera composer, mover and shake and generally very suave indeed. This was the first time that we have had Bongani over and I really hope that he enjoyed himself. He scored Al very generously so fingers crossed he'll be back again :)

 To our right we have Bruce-can'ttakeapicturewithmyeyesopen-Bradfield :) Psychologist, piano-player, Italian food lover and amour of velor, Brucee was luckily not working that evening and so could join us. It was his first time coming for dinner since the inception of the cook-off and also gave Al some top marks!

This is Michael an Honours Law student at Stellenbosch and the most cute little dot that ever existed - who knew he was Afrikaans? He and Andrew drove through from Stellies especially for this occassion.  Thanks guys! :) (BTW that's a felt monster that I made in his hands).










And last but definitely not least, Andrew Retief (o yes now that I know this I will              
never forget it) Versveld. Marketer, Law Student, Sarcastic, Witty and a fruit farmer by origin.
Andrew and Michael will be guest judges repeatedly I feel sure. 

The finished dish! Ok so Al's total score was 81% - really brilliant little Bean!! The meal was finished off with a delicious peppermint crisp dessert compliments of Buffy. There was far too much wine consumed and it was an amazing night. Well done my Beaney!