Claire Clark’s “Indulge” (File under I Like French Laundry)

One has to give Thomas Keller a lot of credit. He finds the right people at the right time and a synergistic magic happens that creates what can only be called; “WOW.” I invented a guy a long time ago that I called the Wow Professor. I claim that he is responsible for all the things that make people go Wow. Have you a better idea of what makes Wow?

Rarely if ever do I term a real actual person the Wow Professor. But in this case I think that it must be realized that Thomas Keller is at least partially responsible for the meteoric rise of one, Grant Atchez, of Alinea fame and also for bringing Claire Clark to the French Laundry. If you want to know the official story on Claire Clark go to http://www.frenchlaundry.com/ and look at their staff.

How does one begin to tell you about the absolute beauty of “Indulge.”? Perhaps by saying that I read it from cover to cover, made copious notes and though I don’t really have a sweet tooth have already made one of her recipes and think that it is to die for.

I’m not ashamed at all to admit that I have taken four of her recipes and plan on tweaking them. I tried her recipe for Chocolate Fudge Brownies and nearly melted from the awesome WOW that my palate and my stomach were receiving. Not only that but the instructions were easy to follow and this was a true delight to make. Roommate and my old friend both gave it ten thumbs up.

She has an incredible style which narrows the ingredients to their core necessity. She has an understanding of all the elements of dessert production and truly, for me, is also a WOW.

Anyone out there who has a sweet tooth or just likes great desserts go out and BUY, not borrow from the Library; “Indulge.” I’m certain it will become your constant companion when you want to impress your lover, your guests or just your own secret urges. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. She has recipes for everything; Chocolate Chip Cookies, Brulees, Caramels and Cheesecake just to name a few (I was going to do the Cheesecake but thought I would wait for this weekend).

Check her out. Not only does she give you her recipes that are used at French Laundry but she also gives you tips and pointers on how best to make them. Conditions. Equipment. Etc. Not for the faint hearted dessert fan to be certain.

I couldn’t find whom this is attributed to but it is the most fitting for this post; “Money may talk, but chocolate sings.”

Are you dreaming big and inspired?

A la prochaine

SDM