Posted by Eddie Wetmore on May 16, 1998 at 12:59:00:
In Reply to: Re: Hopefully a Top Chef posted by Gerard on December 15, 1997 at 14:31:52:
Well, the first thing to do would be to start collecting take-out menus from every establishment that you can. The first thing that you notice will be that they all have basically the same items. Partly,this is because the average consumer wants some stability in food choices, but this presents a wonderful opportunity to begin coming up with some really neat dishes. Read every cooking magazine that you can get your mitts on-this includes going to a library and snaggin some books. DOn't blow off a book just because it's old or doesn't have pictures-some of these old tomers have wonderful recipies/techniques! (A staple of most chefs is Escoffier's definative guide to cooking, written in the 17th cemtury, I think). DOn't be afraid to practice, and don't be afraid to make a substitution or two. (Try not to try a recipe for the first time in front of guests; let them see your skill when you've practiced a bit and worked all the bugs out).
Learn pastry and bread baking-few people know those fields really well. The most important part of being a Top Chef-without exception-is the presentation! If it looks wonderful, then it already IS wonderful. Good Luck!
Eddie