An Old Favorite Revisited
When I waited tables (for more years than was good for my mental well being), I could never understand my regulars who got the same thing every time they came in. However, I must be honest, readers and drinkers. When I went to grad school in Hattiesburg, MS, where there are not many choice restaurants, I would often go to one chain and yes, get the same thing every time. The business was O’Charley’s and the item was the Black and Bleu Caesar salad. It’s a caesar with blackened sirloin, crumbled blue cheese, and crunchy croutons (I’d get it minus the bacon). The chain doesn’t reach the western side of the United States, so I’ve had to make it at home a few times since I moved. This particular time was with veal cutlets (as the freezer bag had no label), seasoned with crushed white peppercorns. Oh, my, but it was still good, especially with my croutons, which are famous in small circles.
The wine I had was one I picked up on my winetasting excursion to Calaveras County to visit El Jefe a couple of months ago. You may recall that we also visited Hatcher Winery in downtown Murphys. The 2004 Syrah caught my fancy that day, and with the loads of pepper, I thought it would go well with the seasoning of the meat, while the rich raspberry and earth would complement the blue cheese on the salad. They did. I didn’t take many notes in my eagerness to eat, but the pairing hit the spot, regardless, and helped to satisfy my craving for an old favorite.
Farley Walker
Black and Bleu Caesar, Hatcher Winery
July 18th, 2007 at 4:52 pm
That salad looks delicious! I love blue cheese crumbles with steak….
July 18th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
I am one of those loyal diners who stick with a favorite…especially if it’s special salad that can’t be imitated elsewhere (except your kitchen of course).
July 20th, 2007 at 6:12 am
[...] my co-bloggers wine site called the Wine Outlook. Farley does an excellent job with tasting notes, wine and food pairings and sharing wine experiences. Did You Enjoy this Post? Subscribe to Colorado Springs, CO for Free [...]
July 23rd, 2007 at 11:17 am
Too Funny !!! That is exactly what we get every time we go to “O’Charley’s”. Not that we frequent it often, but we never venture away from that dish. Tell me about your croutons! I am envious of your wine excursions. Not too many winery’s near Key West:(
July 23rd, 2007 at 11:39 am
Thanks, Megan, and me too.
Alisha, I’m not surprised.
Deb, that is too funny! As for the croutons, very easy: cut a loaf of French bread into small cubes. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, cracked pepper, and freshly minced garlic. After mixing well put in 350 degree oven for 5-8 minutes, shaking the pan several times throughout. Alisha always gets me to make them now when we have salad!