Miranda's table: May 2011

Thanks for visiting me at Miranda's Table

As many of you know I love to feed my family and friends. Sometimes I take the day to savor the ideas and sometimes I use what I already have at home. Either way it is fun to surprise my hungry guests.

My passion for cooking began at home with my Mum, of course. At a very young age I would stand in the Dog's bed next to the Aga (Stove) and watch her cooking and later we would talk and cook together. 30 odd years later when I visit her and Dad in England she leaves me to do most of the cooking though Mum is always present for chit chat and encouragement.

In my 20's it was all about The Bridge Street Cafe. Baking with my Cousin Sal and making fresh pasta for the evening crowd were my duties at first. Then, as the years went by, I watched and learned from Greg, Pedro, Dan, Paul and of course Pam Storey. By then the Food Network was getting started and inspirational chefs were peaking my interest. The rest is history.

I will enveavor to keep posting and cooking. Enjoy!

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Smoked Oyster Pate

Often in the summer friends will stop by or at the beach an evening soiree will be planned. Keeping a pack of cream cheese in the fridge and a can of smoked oysters in the pantry will enable you to produce a delicious and quick appetizer at a moments notice.

Smoked Oyster Pate
1 package of cream cheese
1 can smoked oysters
1/4 cup mayo
1-2 tablespoons soy sauce
parsley
2 small cloves of garlic
a squeeze of lemon or lime juice

Throw all the ingredients into a food processor and mix until smooth. Serve with crackers or chunks of fresh bread.