If you’re kind of new to the cooking world, then I would suggest that you make a "dry run". Practice.
That’s what I do when I’m trying out a new recipe. I usually will make it for my family and get their feedback (especially my mother’s – she an excellent cook!).
Also remember that while timing is important, you don’t want to be chained to the kitchen while your guests are in the other room staring at the walls.
Although I have already mentioned this, the other key to timing is proper planning and research.
Choose the dishes you’ll be making and know the timing for both preparation and cooking time. Once you know that, then it’s all a matter of scheduling!
Another way to ensure everything is served hot, and together is your oven and/or microwave. Use your oven’s warmer to keep things warm. Use your microwave to reheat your side dishes.
This also helps free up your burners when one dish is done and another needs to be cooked.
This may sound daunting to the beginner, but trust me – it’s not. It’s easy if you choose the right dinner to prepare.
To help you plan your first couple of dinner parties, I have included a planning guide (at the end of this book). Print it out and use it to help you get organized. Believe me, it really helps to see things written down!
Also included is a menu planning worksheet. Use this to help you plan out your parties.
Remember – start out with small parties, like 6 to 8 guests. As you get a few parties under your belt and your confidence grows, move on to larger parties.
Wine - I’m No Expert . . .
Wine and dinner parties seem to go hand in hand. Have you ever gone to one and NOT been offered wine – or offered to bring it?
Although I’m no expert when it comes to wine, I do know a LITTLE about them. There is also tons of information to be found, either in the bookstores or on the net.
Some Basics, First
When I say basics, I mean some very basics. We’ll go through different wine types, which wines go with which foods and show you a Vintage Chart. So, without further adieu . . .
Know Your Wines
Type
Taste
Goes With . . . Know Your Wines
