At Home with Kim Vallee

DINING, FOOD + drinks | September 24, 2009

Repurposing a Food Presentation

When my eyes first saw the soft-cooked egg with caviar photo recipe of Chef David Chang, I thought “What a cool way to serve a Camembert”. The French girl in me is never very far. In the September 2009 of Bon Appetit, David Chang explained the story behind his signature dish. Like he said, eggs [...]

DINING, EATING out | September 15, 2009

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Exquisite Prosciutto Tasting Lunch

I had a special lunch twelve days ago. Hivron and her husband Paolo Macchi received me for a tasting of their products at a local restaurant in Old Montreal. While talking to Hivron during the lunch, I discovered that we have several things in common. We both studied interior design for one thing. Prosciutto crudo Macchi imports [...]

ENTERTAINING, EVERYDAY entertaining | September 6, 2009

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David Rocco Discussed His Laid-back Entertaining Philosophy

The October 2009 issue of Canadian House and Home let us see a glimpse of David Rocco’s house in Toronto. The decor translates a rustic, comfortable feeling. It seems that Nina and him listened to my advice on how to create a welcoming front door. What I found most interesting is how David described his laid-back [...]

COOKBOOKS, DINING, FOOD + drinks | December 16, 2008

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Kim’s Version of Spaghettini alla Georgio

With the holiday full schedule, I thought of delicious main dishes that can be ready in 10 minutes. Mainly dishes that I do from start to finish takes 20 to 30 minutes. But I found one recipe on my repertoire that I can prepare and cook in about 10 minutes. It is a pasta dish. [...]

ENTERTAINING, EVENT planning | June 13, 2008

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Hiring A Chef At Home for a Stress-free Dinner Party

Last weekend was the birthday of a friend. Cooking an elaborate dinner for 10 persons is very demanding on the host, unless you hire help. His girlfriend opted to hire a Chef for the night. A wise choice! Food and Wine Pairing No proper meal should be served without harmonizing food and wine. The Chef can [...]

DINING, DISHING tips | September 18, 2007

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The secrets behind the culinary creations of Pastry Chef Philippe Conticini

Why French Chefs master the art of cooking? This is a question that can open many debates. One thing for sure, the Chefs in France place a superior level of attention to the techniques, the taste and the food presentation. The culinary creations of Philippe Conticini will not change my mind about my love affair with French [...]