On Fire flavors at Brander

Francis Mallmann, internationally renound chef and author of the top selling cookbook On Fire, taught his nephew Agustin Mallman his techniques which were very much on display at The Brander Winery last May. The cheering crowd of about 100 guests were treated to an afternoon of On Fire samplings while enjoying some great wine paring choices from Brander. The food was a beautiful blend of bright, light vegetables and earthy, charred meats; which is a trademark of the Mallmann method. The book, which is offered for sale at Brander Winery, showcases some 100 mouthwatering recipes that employ the unique grilling techniques…some of which take several tries to master. Agustin, who travels back and forth from his home town in Argentina, is sure to be on hand again for more BBQ events, possibly this year. For more information on such events, call the winery at 805-6882455 or visit www.brander.com. --RB

My friends and I all know I can’t cook…which is why at potluck garden parties I’m always assigned to bring something already done. For summer the call is usually for something that compliments any thing barbequed… something cool, light and refreshing. Enter the fresh fruit tart from Whole Foods Market Bakery: Fresh local strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and oranges rim the nine-inch crust and are joined by mango, kiwi, apple and pineapple slices for an explosion of color that is truly heaven sent. The filling is simple custard made from cage free ranch eggs, whole milk, sugar and salt. The crust is light and made with unbleached wheat flour. If you really want to serve it up crazy good, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream (McConnell’s, of course) with a sprig of mint. The flavors will send your mind to all things paradise and cool the heat on any summer day. And the best part is I just had to pick it up on the way to the party. --RB

Tarts are available at the Whole Foods Market bakery department, 3731 State Street. 805-8376959. For corporate outings calling for several pies, 48 hour notice is suggested.

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