Attacking the Senses: Adding apples to set the mood

by Steve Crary –

I like to approach every meal with all of my senses at attention.  A great dining experience should incorporate all pathways to the brain.  Sight, smell, texture and sound can all be applied to the way any meal tastes.  The most simple additions can subdue the boredom of what I call ‘repetitive cooking.’  So I come to you with ideas and a philosophy that can put a spark into your family favorite or help attack the senses with any meal.

Let’s “Attack” Grilled Pork Chops and Mashed Potatoes.  Apples (which are coming into season) add a great touch to a lot of different foods.  We can start by marinating the pork chops in a mixture of (2) cups apple cider / juice, (1) tablespoon cider vinegar and salt and pepper to taste.  This will add a sweetness to the meat and let off a wonderful aroma on the grill.

For the potatoes, prepare as you normally would, but try adding this at the end.  Dice (1) apple into small pieces and place in a sauté pan with ¼ stick of butter and (1) teaspoon of nutmeg.  Cook over low heat until the apples are soft, stir them into the potatoes when they are at a texture you enjoy.  To this meal I would choose and add a combination of colorful vegetables like carrots, green beans and yellow squash.

Remember that the most important thing to consider with this philosophy is to have fun.  There is nothing wrong with keeping it simple when this is applied well.  So enjoy yourself, be creative and see what you can do when you “Attack the Senses.”

Disguised as a mild mannered chef, Steve Crary shows us how to “Attack the Senses” in this, his first regular monthly Owl Light News installment.  After learning for over 15 years in kitchens across the states, from east coast to west coast and back again, Steve has settled with his family in Wayland, NY, where he concocts simple fare and fantastic feasts for locals and visitors alike at Steve’s Place, S Lackawanna Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.  Menu at: http://www.stevesplace.us/

Watch in September for more food features and fantastic recipes from Chef Steve, or send in your questions for how to ignite your favorite family recipe by attacking the senses.  E-mail questions to editor@canadicepress.com with “Chef Steve” in the subject line.