My first guest is Danielle McCumber-McLimore, editor and translator for a great book called “Plancha – 150 Great Recipes for Spanish-Style Grilling” by Spanish Author Liliane Otal.
“Plancha” is a Spanish word that literally translates as “plate,” and refers to both a style and a method of cooking, using a metal slab heated over a gas flame. In Spain, planchas are widely used in tapas bars and restaurants to cook an incredible assortment of foods, from mussels to mushrooms and even desserts. In private homes, planchas are often installed in the middle of round tables, so that both the hosts and their guests can share in the cooking experience and no one is stuck in the kitchen. Prepared both indoors and out, plancha cooking is as delicious and suitable on a warm sunny day as it is on a chilly night.
The popularity of plancha has even crossed the Spanish border into France, where many noted chefs, such as Alain Ducasse and Paul Bocuse, have adopted this way of cooking in their Paris restaurants. It’s not just for the gourmet restaurants, however: planchas are incredibly easy to use over grills and stoves, with little mess. And–unlike with other methods of grilling–there is no chance of watching your meal go up in flames.
In Plancha, Liliane Otal shows how to buy and maintain a plancha as well has how to make more than 150 delicious recipes that are so simple and fast anyone can do them. The cooking time for nearly all of these recipes is under 20 minutes. Her recipes will show you how to prepare delicious and flavorful meals that are also low in fat.
If you want the ultimate in high tech Plancha style flat-plate grilling…you need an EVO!
In the second half I’ll be talking to Bob Shingler, president of EVO America www.evoamerica.com
The EVO Professional Classic
Evo products are found in the homes of foodie consumers who enjoy healthy cooking with family and friends, and with professional chefs at leading hotels, resorts and clubs where live-action display cooking is used to serve and entertain a dining audience. Evo manufacturers a full line of residential and commercial cooking appliances in both gas and electric for indoor and outdoor use. Evo appliances are recognized for their cooking versatility, their design and construction, and above all else, for creating a social space around fresh prepared food.
I have an EVO and it is the most versatile, well designed and constructed cooking device I own…I love this thing!
Learn more about EVO at The Kitchen Place
Piccadilly Square at Rock Road and Central
Good Life Guy’s Wine of The Week:
A Killer Rioja Red Wine from Spain – 2007 Viña Eguía Reserva
This wine is a bright, ruby red color, with brick red hints. The aromas are intense and complex, with vanilla, spiced and aromatic herbs perfectly blended with mature red fruit. The mouth shows very balanced, fine, elegant and rounded structure. It has a long, very pleasing finish. Ideal for all types of grilled and roasted meats, especially Spanish style food prepared on an EVO or Plancha.
“A sensational deal can be had with this wine, which opens with crusty berry aromas before shifting to cola, lemon peel and licorice. Tight and structured on the palate, with cherry, plum, vanilla and spice flavors. Harmonious and smooth; integrated and just rich enough. Drink now through 2013. Editors’ Choice”
92 Points – Wine Enthusiast
Pickup a bottle at Jacob Liquor Exchange on North Rock Road!