Blake Makes

Have you watched TV in high definition? I’ve had an HD TV (Sony Bravia 42″ 1080p) for months, but it’s only recently that Cox started adding some really great channels to their HD line up. Of course, I love HD Food Network, but I also love Mojo.

All the programming on Mojo fills the screen with amazingly clear images, so it’s a joy to watch. The shows are also right up my alley, and I’ve grown fond of one in particular.

After Hours is hosted by Daniel Boulud. The series is in its second season which is set in L.A. Each episode starts with Daniel visiting the restaurant, meeting the chef/owner, and then we get a primer from the chef on their take on food and a little history about their restaurant. While they’re talking, little tid bits show up on the screen about places they’ve worked before. Most of the people have really impressive resumes and have worked in some of the BEST digs in the world.

I like the format, too. It starts at the end, then they rewind to show you what they cook for the after hours party. I’ve seen 4 or 5 episodes, and everything they’ve made has looked amazing, but also things that looked impossible for me to make. Really high-end preparations and ingredients. Last night I saw the episode at Providence and the chef cooked raw shrimp in a pile of 500 degree salt at the table. I’m swooning.

The shrimp were dug out about 4 minutes later all covered in delicious, piping-hot salt. It cooked them and seasoned them at the same time. Celebrities also attend the after hours party. No A-listers. I haven’t even seen B or C-listers. Gabrielle Reese and the Gyllenhaal’s dad (who’s apparently a Writer/Director) was on one. A-list chefs show up though, and it’s interesting just to hear them open their mouths. Sometimes they talk about how they got started. I like that.

You guys have got to watch this show. If you like my blog, you’ll love After Hours.

Mexico is one of the first countries you’ll encounter in the World Showcase at Epcot (if you go clockwise). Even when it’s not the Food and Wine Festival, they always have good churros and margaritas in Mexico (that’s right, you can imbibe at Epcot). For your first lap around the world, grab a drink - it will cool you off, and make the next 1.2 miles seem like a short stroll around the block. Reward yourself with a crispy, cinnamony churro for completing the first lap, and to prepare for the second.

We got Chilaquiles and Quesadillas while in Mexico. They were a’ight. The quesadillas were nothing surprising - good, not gross, it was just ok. The Chilaquiles were a little better.

Chilaquiles are basically chicken and cheese baked (I think) inside a tortilla. There was some green sauce on top and they served it with a dollop of sour cream. It tasted a little like turkey and dressing to me.

Mexico’s Grade: B-