In spite of some problems, those who participated did so exceptionally in this thread. In respect of their efforts, and in an effort not to leave things unfinished, I must take the unprecedented but necessary step of publishing my scores.
So.
Zenster
Lobster toast: I find the taste of the Lobster and pineapple to blend exceptionally well. By closing my eyes and concentrating, I can pick out either at will. The delicate balance of spices is teased out by the heat of the jalapeno. These sensations send me into ecstasy.
But then I bite into the toast. WTF! Wonderbread?!? White bread? I found myself wishing a dried toasted baguette with a hint of olive oil, a bagel slice, or even pumpernickel.
Fortunately I instantly forgave you this indiscretion as I tasted your Mexican Miso Soup. While eclectic and whimisical it is perfectly balanced. The pork cracklings are a touch of pure genius.
I conditionally accept the salad as satisfactory yet uninspired. Like the intermission of a classic movie it serves a necessary purpose.
With the Halibut I believe you have accomplished the difficult task of bringing refinement to this staple. The poet in me appreciates the irony of preparing the smallest portions of this giant fish as if they were shrimp. While you break tradition by preparing in this manner, your execution is flawless and to be commended.
Seeing what was to come I put aside the gulab, feeling the delicacy of the halibut had prepared me adequately for the heady yet rough taste of your suckling pig. After my first taste I realized both my mistake, and your intention. I had thought that the pork and mashed potatos would clash. The sweetness of the gulab matches the glaze of the pork perfectly, and the hint of rose petal compliments the garlic. Very nice.
I did find the sweetness of your dessert salad to be almost cloying, but I appreciate the balance it adds to your feast after the lasting impression left by the garlic potatos. Yet, in my heart I longed to replace the blood oranges with chocolate covered strawberries? Perverse? Perhaps, but this is how I felt. In Japanese culture, the truly beautiful is characterized by intentional imperfection, and the subsequent longing I felt enhance my experience of this dish.
I would give you a perfect score, but must penalize you for the higher standard you have taken upon yourself by using all the ingrediants.
19
Javamaven:
Your offer to mail recipes is greatly appreciated. As judge though I can only grade upon what is actually presented.
I felt unhappy as I gazed upon your ceviche as I thought that the tomatos and garlic would clash with the pineapple. Interestingly though the avocado serves as a catalyst which bridges this gap to my palate. While I did not find the taste to be as highly refined as I might like, I understand that you have explored new territory here. When an explorer journeys into the wilderness and faces great danger and hardship, returning with a diamond of remarkable size and color one does not complaign about the quality of the cut. WIth each bite, I appreciate the journey.
As if reading my mind after the adventure you have brought me on, the Thom Kah Gai Soup is like a sauna and massage after a hard day’s work. I feel that I am being teased. While I was happy and weary after the Ceviche, the soup makes me sexually aroused with anticipation.
My tumescent and anticipatory state left me perfectly prepared for your swordfish and I pounced upon with the gusto and enthusiasm I might bestow upon a hearty country wench! The swordfish and I ravished each other!
The Granite was like a soothing balm, relaxing and fulfilling the previous experience. I am grateful, but also . Not a young man, will I be up to what is coming next?
My fears prove groundless. As the very delicate and refined taste of your pork places no demands upon me, but rather seems content to fulfill my desires. The light celery taste combined with the sweet pineapple is like a wind caressing my memories. It brings me back to my youth and invigorates me. Delicious!
The pineapple salad proves the weakest of your dishes so far, but only in comparison to the dichotomy of the previous dishes. I’m not sure what you are trying to accomplish, but my palate is neither offended, nor particularly pleased.
Your Pineapple tart comes on to me like a cheap slut who found an expensive dress and a ticket to the opera. I am surprised at my own enthusiasm and evil intents as we meet, and I use abuse, and devour her.
“Bitch!” I cry as I thrust my fork deep into her moist pineapple throwing bits of crust hither an yon in orgiastic abandon, until at last, spent, and breathing heavy I let my sweaty face cool against thw twin speckled ivory cones of ice cream.
It hasn’t been like that for me in years. Send me the recipes.
I give you 20. This would have been a tie, had it not been for Zenster’s penalty point. Two of the finest meals I can imagine. I am determined to create both IRL.
This battle goes to Javamaven.
She is our victor.
I will continue when my strength returns.
Normally, she would deduct point for such obvious ass kissing, but Chef Troy is just so cute, she tries to give him a fair score.
