Alexandra's Dinner Party

Through accident or genius, Alexandra prepared the scallops with half the butter suggested by Julia with good results. Alexandra contends even with less butter, it seems a bit rich for a main course.

The Clafouti was prepared with firm fresh nectarines. Besides being more flavorful, the firm fruit retained a pleasing texture and did not disintegrate upon cooking. The Frank family agrees that the flan is best the following day. Gretchen notes the texture seemed more dense and creamy.

Operating Instructions

Just to remind everyone how the Cooking with Julia Club will work:

1. The club is structured like a book club, but instead of reading a book every month we'll cook something of Julia Child's.
2. At each meeting we will compare outcomes, surprises, and delights and learn from the process (along with a glass of wine or two). We will also choose the next month's recipe and the next meeting date.

In closing it is perhaps a myth that Julia dropped a chicken, but she certainly did let a potato pancake fly. She promptly put it back in the pan and fixed it back into shape commenting to the viewers, "Remember, you are alone in the kitchen, and no one can see you."

-Alexandra

Note: Page numbers refer to Mastering the Art of French Cooking, The 40th Anniversary Edition by Julia Child.

-Pamela

The Original Invitation

As I finally feel ready to begin my journey with Julia, I thought it might be even more fun to do this journey together! My idea is that once a month we get together to chose a recipe for the next month and discuss the pros and cons and delights and explosions of last month's choice. Since there are women from all over the country who are in the club, we will have a mail/e-mail/phone correspondence going for the recipe choice, hints, and other culinary details. When I know who is interested I'll compile a roaster. For now look for Julia's arrival in your mail box, and pick something delicious you'd like to try for September!!!
Thank you all for your interest!
xoxo, Alexandra