French Feasting with Family

Sunday was our last day all together before Ed, Rob and Sandy had to head back to London for work. David’s grandmother, Ros joined us to celebrate Annabel’s birthday which was on the Tuesday. We went to a French restaurant and David’s Grandpa, Simon treated us to an enormous fancy lunch. We were led out to the back of the restaurant, where a huge table had been set up just for us in the garden. It was warm and bright and a fantastic atmosphere. David and I both ordered a pike mousseline and beef with foie gras – YUM! Here we all are together.

After our feast the Londoners had to take off, so we watched the very long game of soccer on tv and then had a light but tasty supper together in the garden.

Here is a pretty close match to the recipe – it was delicious.
Corn & Chorizo Chowder
2 sliced good bacon, chopped
2 leeks, white & light green parts sliced
1 c yellow onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
6 oz chorizo, sliced
2 T all-purpose flour
2 russet potatoes, peeled & cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 c chicken stock
2 c water
1 t fresh thyme, chopped
3 T fresh parsley, chopped
salt
pepper
1 1/2 c milk
2 c corn, fresh or frozen

In a large heavy soup pot cook the bacon until crisp over medium heat. Move the bacon to a paper towel to drain but leave the fat in the pan. Set the bacon aside.
Add the leeks, onion, garlic & chorizo to the pot. Cook on medium for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the flour in & cook while stirring for 1 -2 minutes. Add the potatoes, stock & water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover & let simmer for 10 minutes. Add the thyme parsley plus salt & pepper to taste. Simmer covered for another 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the milk & corn. Simmer uncovered for another 5 - 10 minutes. Taste for seasonings.
5 - 6 servings