Friday, November 8, 2013

Oceanique chef Mark Grosz on WGN-TV Lunchbreak for this weekend's Lycée Français de Chicago French Market


In case you missed today's WGN-TV Lunchbreak, here's the link to Oceanique Chef Mark Grosz's demonistration, a preview of what he'll be doing tomorrow at Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC) French Market. Here's a terrific feature by Aimee Thompson that appeared on ChicagoNow as well as in your blog MyFrenchLife.org 

Mark Grosz Demonistration at Lycee Francais de Chicago Fall French Market
Date: Saturday, November 9
Demo Time: 2 p.m.
Location: 
- Lycee Francais de Chicago (640 W. Irving Park Road)
- The school is located at the corner of Marine Drive and Irving Park Road.

Mark's recipe is below.

Reprinted with permission by Aimee Thompson.

Discover French market magic in Chicago

Discover French market magic in Chicago - www.MyFrenchLife.orgDiscover French market magic in Chicago - www.MyFrenchLife.orgt’s hard to resist the allure of a true French market. Whenever I think of my travels to France, I immediately envision my time spent browsing the tables full of unique wares at markets across the country. At each one, visitors were inexplicably drawn to the varied treasures from past and present. To me, it was always remarkable to be able to go from a table filled with lavender soaps to one with antique absinthe fountains to one with homemade confitures - all in one bustling place. This is why I always savor the chance to go to the Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC) Fall French Market each year.

An authentic French market in Chicago

French market enthusiasts should mark your calendar for the 9th annual LFC Fall French Market taking place Friday, 8 November through Sunday, 10 November. The event, held at the French international school at 640 W. Irving Park Road, will feature a wide array of unique goods – like any authentic French market.
Discover French market magic in Chicago - www.MyFrenchLife.org
This year, you can sample chocolates, peruse jewelry, check out antiques, sample jams, and try on apparel – with many other items being offered by the more than 60 vendors expected at this year’s market. Parents can shop sans enfants thanks to the market’s Children’s Pavilion, which offers arts and crafts activities and a variety of entertainment.

French culinary sweet and savory treats

Discover French market magic in Chicago - www.MyFrenchLife.orgTo add to the authentic French experience, you can treat yourselves to such culinary treats as made-to-order crepes, warm beignets, fresh baguettes, and more. You also can visit the market’s parent and student-run bistro, which will serve up homemade French seasonal cuisine. Each year, I enjoy placing my order with a French-speaking student and then having them cheerfully deliver me my delicious lunch with a hearty “bon appetit! At the market, you also can learn a culinary trick or two from renown Chicago chefs who will conduct cooking demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday, helping to inspire your next menu or meal. Participating chefs hail from Bistronomic, Geja’s Cafe, Gur Sweets, LM Bistro, Green Spirit, Oceanique, Toni Patisserie & Cafe, and Nouveau Tavern, among other local restaurants and caterers.

A toast to all things French

Discover French market magic in Chicago - www.MyFrenchLife.orgThe LFC Fall French Market opens its doors Friday night. Anyone wishing to get an early look at this year’s unique offerings can purchase a ticket to the preview party. This year, the party is inspired by our neighbor to the south – Mexico. It offers a sampling of authentic Mexican food and a festive selection of wine, beer and cocktails. The LFC Fall French Market is one of the school’s annual fundraisers. Proceeds go towards need-based scholarships for students. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.


All photographs © In the Light Photography


Recipe by Oceanique Chef Mark Grosz

Warm Day Boat Sea Scallops
Kimchi    English Peas  Watercress   Radishes

Serves Four

12 oz. day day boat scallops
1 oz. canola oil
2 oz. extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup English peas
2 cups Watercress
1 clove garlic – chopped small
1 cup Kimchi
1 cup local radish (anything available – sliced thin)
½ lemon – juiced

METHOD:
Cook peas in boiling salted water for two minutes. Season with salt, black pepper & 1 teaspoon olive oil and keep warm.  Saute watercress in hot olive oil, add garlic after 15 seconds and continue to cook for 30 seconds or so.  Season with salt, black pepper and keep warm.  Dry scallops and sauté over high heat with canola oil.  Cook about one minute per side until golden brown.  Remove from heat.  Brush with olive oil to cool and lubricate.  Add a pinch of salt. 

Arrange watercress on plates, top with Kimchi and peas, add scallops, and radishes squeeze fresh lemon on scallops.  Serve ASAP.  Serve with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc


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