Friday, November 14, 2008

A Moroccan Dinner for a Special Lady

I love to cook, but it's not often that I feel like I have a green light to spend what I want and pull out all the stops for a special meal. Maybe once a year or so. Jeff's parents have been such a blessing to us this year, so I wanted to celebrate Amy's birthday in style. Making food is probably my #1 love language, and it's especially gratifying when the recipient feels the same way about food. I only chose the menu the night before, so Jeff stayed home yesterday to watch Amelia so I could focus. It was so much fun! I thought I'd share some pictures, but I didn't remember to capture everything.

The Menu

Pomegranate, Orange, Mint and Rose Coolers

Chicken B'Stilla
(A filo pastry filled with chicken and egg, with almonds and cinnamon between layers of pastry)
I didn't get a picture of mine, but it pretty much looked like this one.

Vegetable Course:
Baked Pumpkin Stars with Caramelized Onion, Raisins and Almonds
Beets with Minty Yogurt Dressing

Lamb Tagine with Prunes
served with Fresh Baked Baguette
Garlic and Lemon Fava Beans


Homemade Baklavah
Fresh Spearmint Tea
White Coffee
(Hot water infused with orange blossom essence)

None of the recipes were very difficult, let me know if you'd like to try one of them!

10 comments:

ShackelMom said...

Wow, what a wonderful and amazing feast! I am sure it was an unforgettable evening! A wonderful gift! Good work!

Nathan said...

Looks really great! We just made our own baklavah only a couple nights ago. It was a hit with everyone. Nice job marking a special occasion with amazing food!

Gretchen said...

These look amazing Ariana! You have such a gift!

shaun said...

Wow, awesome.

Gypmar said...

I'd love the b'stilla (one of my favorites)and lamb recipes.

What a delicious, BEAUTIFUL meal. You are definitely speaking my language :) I think it would take me a week to get all that together.

Karen Kellerford said...

Oh my!! You are amazing!

Robin said...

It's a beautiful spread. What a nice gift for a person you love and appreciate! Not only the food, but the whole evening... sitting and tasting, talking, looking and being together. The baklavah looks perfect!

Leslie said...

You are incredible!

Unknown said...

Now I'm blushing. Thanks, everyone, for the enthusiasm and kind words!

Anonymous said...

I got here late but I agree, you did a fabulous job.I'm sure Amy loved it. Love Grandma