Cook the Book: Martha Stewart's Hors d'Oeuvres Handbook
Words by Michele Humes | My passion for this week's Cook the Book pick, Martha Stewart's Hors d'Oeuvres Handbook, could fill a book of its own. Chapter 1: In which I notice Martha's finger food bible in the personal collection of every caterer I have ever worked for; Chapter 2: In which I am won over by the spectacular photography, the breadth of the recipes and the relevance of the style; Chapter 3: In which I throw a housewarming party powered largely by this formidable tome. I could go on and on, but I'm supposed to be telling you how to win a copy of your own.
Back in the 80s, hors d'oeuvres meant tray upon tray of little bread shapes topped with meat, cheese or some combination thereof. You'll find classic canapés in this handbook, of course, but you'll also find recipes for big bowls of warm, spiced nuts, all manner of elegant and unexpected empanaditas, and demitasses of soups both hot and chilled.
As we enter the territory of last-minute holiday preparations, we'll be posting one of Martha's impeccable hors d'oeuvres every day this week. Expect a boozy chicken liver pâté; a wintry dip of mustard greens, white beans and bacon; blue cheese-pecan icebox crackers to make ahead, and 13 inventive fillings for tartlet shells.
Win 'Martha Stewart's Hors d'Oeuvres Handbook'
Thanks to the fine folks at Clarkson Potter, we are giving away five (5) copies of Martha Stewart's Hors d'Oeuvres Handbook. In the comments below, just share your proudest home entertaining moment.
Contest will end and comments will close at 3 p.m. ET, Monday, December 29, 2008. One entry per community member. The standard Serious Eats contest rules apply.
Comments are closed: 337 Comments:
fried chicken for my husband and his friends watching football
spork at 1:06PM on 12/22/08
My proudest moment was when I pulled off a cocktail party in my tiny Boston apartment....I had a bar set up with all the fixings for various martinis, and about 6 platters filled with delectable morsels, including crab stuffed mushrooms, bruscetta, hot artichoke dip, and a huge cheese & fruit tray. Everyone had a blast and the food and drinks were perfect.
juliebugsmama at 1:07PM on 12/22/08
When I was a medical student living in a tiny batchelor apartment, I hosted for the first time a 5 course dinner party for 6 - without a hitch! (or a sous-chef...)
PeanutButter at 1:12PM on 12/22/08
first thanksgiving cooking for my family and my wife's family.
compliments all around. biggest problem was the mountain of dirty dishes.
thebeef at 1:20PM on 12/22/08
The first time I threw a dinner party. I was so used to my parents throwing dinner parties while I was a child that I suddenly felt so grown up to be taking on the hostess role.
plantainsandkimchi at 1:26PM on 12/22/08
My superbowl party with homemade cuban sandwiches, jalapeno poppers, sticky asian wings and various guacs.
jlbrach at 1:29PM on 12/22/08
when i threw a surprise 21st birthday dinner party for my roommate and cooked the whole meal in front of her, but she had no clue. i said i was cooking dinner for a group of friends and had arranged for a friend to pretend to take her out for dinner that day. i even planned to have that friend leave her phone in the apartment so they would have to return. everyone played along, they all came within a 15 minute window and they parked away from the apartment. i even made a birthday cake!
lauraaaa at 1:29PM on 12/22/08
Proudest moment: having people come over for my housewarming late-lunch party. My very first housewarming, thrown by me, for me and my 1-bedroom condo. It felt fantastic to throw open my door and welcome people and offer them drinks and food and make them at home. The drinks were bodacious, the food fantastic, and noone spilled a thing. Awesome.
lorelei76 at 1:31PM on 12/22/08
In return for a paid semester of college, I hosted a dinner party for my aunt and uncle. Everything turned out great especially the white chocolate martinis to top off the night.
gammypie at 1:35PM on 12/22/08
Hawaiian party. Imported poi from Hawaii. Gross. But a lovely color purple.
oneperfectegg at 1:35PM on 12/22/08
Well that happened two days ago when I cooked around 130 potato pancakes for a Hanukkah party! I've never cooked that much food for a party before and I was so pleased with how well they turned out and how big of a hit they were!
Risha at 1:36PM on 12/22/08
practice thanksgiving - a month before i cooked my first family thanksgiving, i hosted practice thanksgiving for my friends, to make sure i knew what i was doing. we had fun & it turned out great; the apple pie turned out much better than the one i made for thanksgiving did...
sarah at 1:38PM on 12/22/08
making a thanksgiving meal for friends who couldnt get home for the holiday and having ppl actually finish off a turkey! no leftovers...to me that meant they LOVED it. =)
sassysprite at 1:43PM on 12/22/08
First Thanksgiving hosting the in-laws after moving from California to Pennsylvania. After hearing "that's not how we do it," or "this is how we've always done it," finally I got to host, cook, and do things my way. The result? My mother in law told me she'd never had a tastier or moister turkey--which I'd cooked following a bourbon brining recipe I'd originally found via Martha Stewart online and then tweaked to fit my own needs. And me finally being able to cook w/o having to justify "my way."
verilium at 1:46PM on 12/22/08
I made several varieties of deep-fried appetizers for the Super Bowl one year - everyone loved it!
bmcbrides at 1:47PM on 12/22/08
An Oscars party we hosted for about 30 people; we made nearly everything from scratch and it all turned out great. People still talk about that party, years later!
Jeana at 1:51PM on 12/22/08
We have a Chinese New Year party every year in January or February. It's a good post-holiday, relatively low-stress party. Last year was my favorite - dinner came together beautifully, but dessert was a collection of delicious little bites - including my homemade mini tarts filled with chocolate ganache and blood orange marmalade. Described as having the potential to be the seasonal signature of the bakery I'll never open.
cyberroo at 1:57PM on 12/22/08
Hosting a meal where the food was all from Julia Child for 10 people in a 700 sq ft apartment.
saraann at 1:59PM on 12/22/08
My proudest moment usually has to do with pigs and blankets, dates stuffed with asiago and wrapped in bacon, or deviled eggs.
alainakunin at 2:01PM on 12/22/08
Probably when a friend of mine with a gorgeous new kitchen asked me to "teach her to do thanksgiving" this year. In her spotless brand new kitchen, I felt like I was taping a cooking show!
pooky at 2:02PM on 12/22/08
Thanksgiving dinner for 16 as a very young bride.... first whole turkey, first pumpkin pie.... And amazingly, nothing terrible went wrong! Everything came out the way it was supposed to! It really boosted my confidence and I wasnt afraid to tackle "food for guests" after that....
hmneilson at 2:02PM on 12/22/08
I really love cooking for people, but seldom have time to do so. My favorite moment just happened at Thanksgiving, when my sister-in-law mauled me at the door to find out what I had made because she said always loves what I cook. I yearn for the day when I can host Thanksgiving myself...
KBestOliver at 2:04PM on 12/22/08
I hosted a baby shower for 20 - tea sandwiches, snacks, dips, crackers, and desserts. Finding room for all those people was enough of a challenge, but I was also trying to make the food diabetic friendly for the mom-to-be!
threedogkitchen at 2:05PM on 12/22/08
Christmas dinner for 18 and the food all came out hot and delicious.
Kimc54 at 2:07PM on 12/22/08
My parents threw a weekend long party at my house and I pulled it off wonderfully by breaking the ice with lots of margaritas and guacamole! I fed the crew of 8 countless meals...but, the real hit was the chile verde! Yum!
leah4hand at 2:08PM on 12/22/08
Holiday dinner for 4 in a 500 sq/ft apartment. Yes!
lbellomy at 2:13PM on 12/22/08
One word, turducken.
hamkracker at 2:15PM on 12/22/08
A full on turkey dinner and all the fixings right before Christmas break for a bout 20 friends while I was in college. It was a big hit.
kyle25 at 2:21PM on 12/22/08
Just the other day, when I made my first real beef dish without following a recipe to the letter. Baby steps, you know.
lotswife at 2:22PM on 12/22/08
my first dinner party... for 8 people. it was great!
NYCEater at 2:22PM on 12/22/08
Making perfect Buffalo-style wings.
Brettsy at 2:22PM on 12/22/08
The big pot of gumbo I made for the Super Bowl. It was gone before halftime.
kyle25 at 2:23PM on 12/22/08
Mini caramel apples for Halloween - they were adorable!
KarynMC at 2:33PM on 12/22/08
Cooking Christmas dinner for my family and 10 guests.
rffoodie at 2:38PM on 12/22/08
When my daughter & I were in Thailand last year we took a day long cooking course. Upon returning home, when she visited, we threw a dinner party using all the recipes we had learned. My friends adored the food, the evening and us!
SueZeeQ at 2:44PM on 12/22/08
helping my mom get christmas dinner on the table after she burnt the ham.
arugulafiles at 2:46PM on 12/22/08
Several years ago when I was 27 I pulled of the entire Thanksgiving meal. After that I knew I could do anything. Since then I have found out I can't but I am still having fun.
andysophiemom at 2:47PM on 12/22/08
Hosting my family and my husband's family for Thanksgiving, the first year in our new home. We had only been married for a little over a year, and it felt so good to be able to time everything perfectly and serve a wonderful meal.
mevers at 2:48PM on 12/22/08
waking up on the floor of my bathroom and realizing that everyone had left while i was passed out (just out of college, lots of drinking was involved).
thinking about it, this may not actually be my proudest home entertaining moment..though i'm sure it was quite entertaining to my guests i'm not necessarily so proud of it.
sloppy at 2:48PM on 12/22/08
made a chocolate fondue from scratch, guests were licking the pot clean. a little gross but what a compliment.
passion4eating at 2:49PM on 12/22/08
The first time I threw a cocktail party where I planned and made all the food instead of just putting out cheese and crackers and my friends flipped out. They also pigged out.
acmartin at 2:50PM on 12/22/08
My wife & I managed to pull off a sit-down dinner for 14 without a hitch in a small house with barely enough room and barely enough chairs.
BostonDiner at 2:52PM on 12/22/08
A potluck Wii party and the controllers managed to stay clean.
spros at 2:54PM on 12/22/08
The best entertaining event was my retirement party. We invited all of our customers for drinks and Hors d'Oeuvres and they all came (125+) It was a wonderful time.
CarolHarrity at 3:10PM on 12/22/08
New Years Party with many various types of Hors d'Oeuvres and mini sandwiches. It was a blast.
Julianna L at 3:11PM on 12/22/08
While living in Eastern Europe, I invited about ten people over for a Chinese New Year party and hunted all over for the appropriate ingredients. I ended up making (with some contributions) a whole poached chicken with scallion sauce, steamed buns with pork filling (from scratch), chinese barbecued pork, and two different kinds of fried rice. Someone also contributed a huge batch of sweet and sour meatballs with cabbage!
syannelevovna at 3:13PM on 12/22/08
Last year's holiday party, where all the Asian-themed food came together beautifully. Carnivores were happy with all the meat (and the sides), vegetarians were happy with the hearty sides alone, the signature drink was a hit, and nothing got broken or spilled! Talk about peace and harmony!
hungryinhouston at 3:25PM on 12/22/08
A meal for friends including homemade bread & homemade fettucine. I cooked all day and had pasta drying all over the place.
PDXbiker at 3:25PM on 12/22/08
Proudest entertaining moment is when my husband brought home a co-worker for dinner, and I had absolutely nothing planned for dinner that night because I was busy all day. I made a spectacular Spaghetti Aglio Olio that the guy raved about, and defrosted frozen Christmas cookies that he also devoured. Lesson learned: you can always whip up something special if you have a box of pasta and some olive oil and garlic in the house.
cdziuba at 3:26PM on 12/22/08
the first time i had my in-laws over for dinner!
mrsbao at 3:27PM on 12/22/08
Thanksgiving dinner 1999; two bishops from the church in the Czech Republic sit in our kitchen and turn down pieces of pecan pie so they can gnaw the wing bones of our roasted turkey!
czken at 3:28PM on 12/22/08
The best time of entertaining is when you realize everyone is having a good time. It brings a smile to your heart and you know that you are having a good time too.
petty4 at 3:28PM on 12/22/08
Ihad a number of friends over on a cold day, for hot buttered rum with apple cider. I was pleased and proud that everyone had left without noticing the crickets that had crawled out of the cinnamon sticks in the cider.
beano at 3:31PM on 12/22/08
hosting my first seder, complete with hard boiled eggs, matzoh ball soup, charoset, and the rest of the traditional trimmings. I also led the seder, which was the scariest part.
redhead at 3:31PM on 12/22/08
when i had major entertainers (themselves) over and they told me they were impressed with my soiree!!
amwhiteh at 3:32PM on 12/22/08
Throwing my husband's 40th birthday party. Made all the food and am still receiving compliments and recipe requests, a year later.
Elmig at 3:32PM on 12/22/08
After being known for asking how to boil water for macaroni and cheese just a few years ago, my proudest moment was serving two homemade pies to my dad's family for Thanksgiving, and getting major kudos.
bobcatsteph3 at 3:42PM on 12/22/08
We had a Mexico theme dinner. Each couple prepared and brought a different course to our home.
Mucho fun.
Bosmer at 3:54PM on 12/22/08
New Years party last year: Everyone loved the mini frittatas, figs stuffed with goat cheese, crostini with ass'd toppings and a whole load of tiny bites. Made most everything ahead of time so I could spend the evening with my friends!
bessfour at 3:58PM on 12/22/08
Homemade chili when my boyfriend got off an 8 hour bus ride.
pupilindenial at 3:58PM on 12/22/08
Making mocha meringue cupcakes with bruleed tops for a party my housemates and I were holding...both delicious and super impressive!
cupcakemuffin at 3:59PM on 12/22/08
had a big bash for my mothers birthday
mverno at 4:00PM on 12/22/08
fabulous Halloween party complete with costumes and a pumpkin-carving contest
Thomas6 at 4:02PM on 12/22/08
An "Asian" feast for my parents and boyfriend and an elaborate wine and cheese night for a roommate's birthday. Neither of which with help, both of which on a college student's budget.
orangeobsession at 4:03PM on 12/22/08
When I, by myself, made over ten dozen cookies in a day. It was insane!
Jekyl at 4:06PM on 12/22/08
making homemade pizzas for all
thumber at 4:09PM on 12/22/08
making a dozen cheesecakes and having potroast in the oven perfect and chili in the crockpot all done and perfect
sandy89 at 4:11PM on 12/22/08
When a guest samples something, and the reaction is wow - that's great.
sjwoodin at 4:12PM on 12/22/08
Impromptu Saturday or Sunday lunches and invite family/friends over for a homemade meal, bracciole, stuffed pork roast, grilled tri-tip, whatever I am in the mood for.
lamora at 4:17PM on 12/22/08
We have friends over frequently, but just this Saturday we had two friends over for dinner, and I made a fantastic shrimp risotto with seared scallops. I was proud of it because it tasted amazing, but also because it was a recipe I had created by cobbling a few others together!
kll205 at 4:23PM on 12/22/08
Threw an italian steak dinner for seven people with Piedmontese Porterhouse grilled with a rosemary/gray sea salt rub. Everyone said it was the best beef they had ever eaten.
msecondo at 4:45PM on 12/22/08
Baking seven different kinds of bread for our Thanksgiving bread basket this year--all were a huge hit, and now I'm known as the bread girl in the group!
threecupsofcoffee at 4:48PM on 12/22/08
cooking up a middle-eastern dinner for my in-laws who never had any such food before. This was the first time they tried lamb and exotic spices such as cardamom and cloves.
Natalie at 4:48PM on 12/22/08
Two roast turkeys cooked to perfection, with a giant vat of mashed potatoes, gravy, and salad, done on ovens that have to be propped closed with a fork and a range that's more miss than hit.
shoneyjoe at 4:52PM on 12/22/08
My most proud moment was definately when I refused to cancel our annual family Thanksgiving and served a fabulous menu that came off without a hitch even though I had just given birth a few weeks prior to our fourth child. Our guests were amazed!
HSlater351 at 4:52PM on 12/22/08
I just entertained my boss and his wife with nothing but poatto chips and blue cheese sauce, and he loved it.
agordon10 at 4:56PM on 12/22/08
first time i made thanksgiving for everyone in london- they had never had pumpkin pie and were amazed at how juicy my turkey was. they did not know about basting!
savscarlett at 5:07PM on 12/22/08
Proudest moment...hmmm...not kicking my party guests out the door when someone spilled red wine on my rug?
Pupster at 5:14PM on 12/22/08
proudest moment was when i cooked british fish and chips for my british girlfriend.
she said it tasted just like the real thing. i was so chuffed
fayefaye5 at 5:19PM on 12/22/08
My proudest moment is not about the quality of food or entertaining - it is when friend/family/whoever seem to genuinely have a great time and everyone feels comfortable.
ky2here at 5:29PM on 12/22/08
For a collective New Year's Eve party, I threw myself into making not one, not two, but three complicated appetizers and desserts. My proudest achievement was my successful completion of the delicious Bailey's Boozemuffins. Decadent!
bluberryfields3 at 5:31PM on 12/22/08
Managing to host 20 people from 5-6 different social circles for a wine tasting party and ending the night with no broken wine glasses, furniture or faces!
mozart23 at 5:38PM on 12/22/08
I threw an engagement party for a good friend - the marriage didn't last, but we still have the great memory of a "haute" low country boil- instead of shrimp, lobster tails; instead of reg sausage, gourmet italian sausage; and instead of beer, Moet & Chandon Champagne!
LindaY at 5:43PM on 12/22/08
I held a Christmas in February party. Due to health situations in December causing families not to get together, I set up all the Christmas decorations with the tree included in February and we all gathered then. It was so much fun.
drala625 at 5:48PM on 12/22/08
Thanksgiving dinner 2003 - my second Thanksgiving in the US, the first Thanksgiving dinner I cooked on my own (the entire meal), for 16 people. The best part - it was a hit!
brooke29 at 5:49PM on 12/22/08
that the trifle not only tasted good, it actually *looked* good at my first "grown-up" party
bibliothecaire at 5:50PM on 12/22/08
I think it was the first time I cooked thanksgiving dinner.....I was so nervous, and at turned out way better than I had imagined......I really was proud of mysellf for tackling that turkey!
starsmom at 5:53PM on 12/22/08
The first time I made my Cajun alligator snack crackers and they disappeared. I felt accomplished at that point.
kuromu at 5:54PM on 12/22/08
At the last minute, I whipped up an awesome roasted vegetable pasta salad, and everyone devoured it. That was amazing!
cochon at 6:08PM on 12/22/08
The first Thanksgiving I made from soup to nuts or actually appetizers to multi desserts.
deefine at 6:16PM on 12/22/08
I'm torn- it was either the first year that I moved away from my mom's house, and made a huge spread for an "orphan's thanksgiving" for my housemates, an elderly neighbor, and many friends- we were putting food into tupperware to serve so that we could wash and reuse the pots and pans for the next dish!
Alternatively, the roasted in the ground whole pig that I made with my partner after we graduated culinary was a proud moment- one of the instructors who had helped my sweetie on his Fergus Henderson finals menu came, and everyone raved about the piggy!
Ravara at 6:20PM on 12/22/08
I'm always grateful when I make an extravagant feast for company or even my husband and it turns out successful.
toastworthy at 6:37PM on 12/22/08
I had 8 for Thanksgivinig Dinner and everything went perfectly!
muprofeng at 6:42PM on 12/22/08
First dinner party I gave after I got married.
southerncooker at 6:43PM on 12/22/08
I made apple pies from scratch for Thanksgiving dinner this year!
drew13000 at 6:44PM on 12/22/08
When I made my mom's famous Sauerkraut and Pork recipe for 10 people (for the first time ever), and it turned out even BETTER than my mom's!
Alicia Webster
5webs@comcast.net
5webs at 6:59PM on 12/22/08
The first time I made eggplant caviar and it was such a hit, that I now have to make it everytime the family gets together. It's healthy, quick and sooo damn goooooooood. My pico de gallo also tends to disappear real quick.
ReneeIF at 7:08PM on 12/22/08
Mr proudest moment was a tree trimming desserts-only party. The party was a blast, and the treats were great.
AdriBarr at 7:08PM on 12/22/08
My first New Year's Ever party in 2005 in my new house with 24 dear friends. It is an annual tradition for us now.
Heatherdee at 7:16PM on 12/22/08
My very first party that didn't involve college mates. I made a fondue party, made from scratch all sorts of nibbles, prepared the meats (beef and chicken), and 5 different dipping sauces. It was so much fun I definitely got the entertaining bug after that!
edeliz at 7:24PM on 12/22/08
The night of my wedding in 1999, we had a small champagne and hors d'Oeuvres reception (followed by a pig roast the next day). I made a variety of wonderful finger foods from a 1984 Martha Stewart hors d'Oeurves cookbook.
Everyone LOVED the food and could not believe I did "all that" for my own wedding. It was actually rather easy with those recipes.Sadly, I lost my hubby nearly a year ago. But he did love my cooking. Thanks to Martha, we had a good start.
soapy at 7:27PM on 12/22/08
I brought one of my favorite salads to an anniversary party for my parents, and everyone was knocked out by my salad. I mean, it was a SALAD. But even the caterers--who grilled the meat and fish, as well as served the rest of food we had prepared--were raving about it. So now I am known for my salads. Some day, I will come up with something more impressive. I do like salad, though.
coffeeandapieceofpie at 7:36PM on 12/22/08
baked alaska for our vice-presidential debate watching party. *wink*
andshewas at 7:54PM on 12/22/08
I had a dinner party and prepared paella and guests loved it so much; they literally couldn't stop eating!
Lotuscheek at 8:04PM on 12/22/08
For our first married Christmas, we had all of our friends over for a big feast. Even our new neighbors stopped by after they smelled the ham cooking. Needless to say, they were very few leftovers and a lot of extra guests before the night was through.
MeganCochran at 8:09PM on 12/22/08
we have ppl over for christmas &everyone loves the food
banquetbabe at 8:27PM on 12/22/08
Cooking Christmas dinner on my own for the very first time.
winnekat at 8:36PM on 12/22/08
My first big dinner party - an Indian dinner with many mail and side dishes for 25 friends. I cooked the dinner in my tiny kitchen and we ate around my coffee table on the flour!
lisargold at 8:43PM on 12/22/08
A 70-th birthday party for 50 people for my partner of 30 years.
tmdonahue at 8:46PM on 12/22/08
The first time I cooked a big thanksgiving dinner for family and friends and everything went well.
Thanks!
mistyriver at 8:55PM on 12/22/08
Throwing a 50th birthday party for a friend this past June. A buffet Middle Eastern dinner was provided.
chanterelle at 8:59PM on 12/22/08
Having never eaten chili (or even been) in Ohio, I managed to cook a batch of Skyline-esque chili for a friend who grew up there. Evidently I got it pretty darn close to the real deal, because he now favors my cooking over almost anything else.
AliceBlue at 9:04PM on 12/22/08
Whipping up a huge spread for the 2005 Super Bowl. Go Steelers!
scaevola at 9:16PM on 12/22/08
My first Thanksgiving dinner. Everything came out great (even my mom said my turkey was better than hers!), and we had tons of fun. Learned to make butternut squash ravioli and drank tons of wine. I still do Thanksgiving every year now, with a different set of "orphans" every year.
marianne215 at 9:28PM on 12/22/08
Even 10 years later, it's still the first time I cooked my mom a lavish, five-course birthday dinner. It became a tradition.
piccola at 9:40PM on 12/22/08
my first holiday meal for the extended family, and everything turned out fine
chromiumman at 9:51PM on 12/22/08
this past summer when i had 10 friends over and i cooked every course on the grill for a 5 course meal. everyone loved it
hoff_83 at 10:05PM on 12/22/08
My proudest moment was hosting Thanksgiving for my whole family for the first time. It went off without any problems!
blgrimes at 10:12PM on 12/22/08
My first dinner party complete with place cards, fall theme, candy corn sprinkled down the table runner, guests actually clapped their hands like small children when they saw it.
floridayaya at 10:27PM on 12/22/08
my first beer can chicken for a summer bbq turned out great.
winkyj at 10:30PM on 12/22/08
We had a party for the Rams in the Super Bowl that resulted in a good time despite a last second field goal by the Patriots.
codasco at 10:59PM on 12/22/08
My friends came over to watch the Oscars and despite having worked 60 hrs that week I was able to crank out a feast of crostina prosciutto and sage butter and mozarella, sausage with carmelized onions, espresso chocolate mouuse, shrimp salad in endive, and assorted vegetables.
dishingupdelights at 11:00PM on 12/22/08
Mydinner party for my parents 50th anniversary. With my dear husband's help we made 3 huge roast turkeys and all the fixings for 75 people. It was organized and fun. People are still talking about that special party. My Mom and Dad just glowed the entire night.
Fatmama at 11:17PM on 12/22/08
I made my mama and nephew supper one night... they loved it. :) I beamed for a week lol.
ghostamongyou at 11:35PM on 12/22/08
Surprise 70th Birthday party for friend.
forkmtn at 12:03AM on 12/23/08
My proudest home entertainment moment was when I cooked Thanksgiving dinner for my family and friends. Thanks for the giveaway!
cmgnbox01 at 12:18AM on 12/23/08
The third time or so, when I realized that I'd perfected bruschetta for our parties and didn't need the recipe anymore.
toastykitten at 12:37AM on 12/23/08
Hosting the entire neighborhood for our annual Christmas party.
artmarcia at 1:13AM on 12/23/08
I'm constantly making appetizers for my husandand myself...Movie nights and such
ooodaisymaeooo at 1:51AM on 12/23/08
i recently made cornish game hen (my first time!) with roasted winter veg and garlic mashed potatoes for my partner, sister, her partner, and another couple - it felt like a real family dinner, and made the whole house seem warm and cozy. i got to make awesome stock with the bones of the birds, too! yum!
dithie at 4:01AM on 12/23/08
I made a tasty turkey for my friends and they stuffed themselves silly. The potato salad was great too..
shereallyco0ks at 4:11AM on 12/23/08
a deep fat fried turkey party for the entire neighborhood. We did five turkeys and the best part of it all was watching the amazement that you can deep fat fry a turkey. Who knew? :)
Kwdavis421 at 6:08AM on 12/23/08
i don't have a proudest moment yet :(
PoignantTuna at 6:56AM on 12/23/08
My Dad's retirement party. What a send off - great food, good company, plenty of stories and a bagpiper. The retirement didn't last long, but the party was memorable.
mcferret at 7:22AM on 12/23/08
I love Martha's hors cookbook & have taken it out of the library countless times. I made my own crackers from this book & I was quite proud.
foodandscience at 7:27AM on 12/23/08
I was so proud of the first turkey I roasted for Thanksgiving. I unknowingly cooked it upside down, but I guess some experts recommend that now.
clc408 at 8:34AM on 12/23/08
My proudest entertaining momenet is when I hosted my son's 4th birthday. Everything turned out perfect!
denyse at 8:36AM on 12/23/08
My mother was such an excellent cook - when I got my first compliment from her after cooking a fine/mediocre meal, I treasured that moment and try to do better everytime all the while thinking of her and how she would would tackle the task ahead.
Teeeveee at 8:56AM on 12/23/08
A pre-wedding luncheon for 40. Only a few of whom were known to me. Food, cooked by me, was definitely the best thing about the afternoon.
Annek at 8:58AM on 12/23/08
The closest I ever came to perfection was my daughters adoption day party. The standing rib roast was perfect. The Ceasar's dressing was perfect. However the garlic mashed potatoes were served lukewarm. I just cant seem to tie it all together.
Marilouise at 9:06AM on 12/23/08
My " famous " Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners . Tons of delicious food , drinks and goodies ......and the ones I love .
foodie51 at 9:19AM on 12/23/08
I haven't been "entertaining" that long, but 2 years ago I hosted Thanksgiving for 8 of my family members.... I was pretty proud that I was able to pull off a 20 lb. turkey singlehandedly!
Jengraf at 9:32AM on 12/23/08
When I was 16 years old I made a full on Chinese dinner for my parents and 6 friends. It was a huge success, and I was hooked on entertaining with food. 40 years later I still love cooking for friends and family.
lucylucy at 9:33AM on 12/23/08
My ability to arrange crackers on a platter. I really need this cook book!!
LiveToEat at 9:50AM on 12/23/08
My first board game party at my new home. Everybody had a great time and I got to whip up some fantastic treats in my new kitchen!
Sarajahii at 10:07AM on 12/23/08
After 4 oven fires and a bent oven rack, presenting a perfectly moist and delicious 43 pound turkey for Thanksgiving dinner to family and friends. It was my first experience cooking a home grown turkey (monster) and also using the oven roasting bags. Ironically, it was the oven roasting bags that caused the excess fluids to build up and start the fires. My oven and I never fully recovered from that dinner party!
Boscompb at 10:11AM on 12/23/08
My first christmas hosting the in laws.
zenright at 10:16AM on 12/23/08
Pairing the perfect wine and food combo!
dove1960 at 10:32AM on 12/23/08
My bread cornocopia.
trishden at 10:40AM on 12/23/08
Making my brother's wedding cake. Ann, my future sister-in-law asked me to shop with her for a wedding cake. By the time we returned home she was nearly in tears because every cake that she liked was far to expensive for her budget so I agreed to make her one. I actually made the cake a week ahead and froze it. Then the day before the wedding I started. I had made sugar bells to adorn the seperate layers and the plastic seperators for the tiers had swans in them and when I got it put together the swans looked so empty as they were actually little vases so I sent my dad off scurrying to the florist for some baby's breath. The most time consuming part was putting the little silver balls in the center or each little icing medallion around the edges of all the layers but it turned out beautifully and till the day he died my brother always said that that cake was the pride and joy of his wedding.
mensa63 at 10:56AM on 12/23/08
We had a NYE party one year, complete with fireworks. Nothing got broken, no one got hurt. I was pretty proud to have a nice party with no damage and no injuries. Sometimes with tons of people and drinks flowing, stuff gets spilled or dropped onto the carpets.
Reva Skie at 10:57AM on 12/23/08
The first time we had shabu shabu with some friends at home.
talithaborealis at 11:22AM on 12/23/08
I just hosted a Christmas party where we actually used a lot of Martha's hors d'oeuvres. The food was fantastic and the party was a sucess!
malpal at 11:39AM on 12/23/08
My proudest moment was at the end of a Russian-themed dinner party I had for a friend of my SO's whom I'd never met and who had just come back from a trip to Russia.
I prepared a four-course meal in a very tiny Capitol Hill, DC kitchen that consisted of Russian recipes that I'd never even tasted before, including some fish dishes that I couldn't even taste because I'm allergic to fish.
The friend was amazed and said my dinner surpassed even the best he'd had in Russia, so I was very proud, indeed.
AsTheNight at 12:21PM on 12/23/08
The surprise birthday party for my husband. Everything came together perfectly and he had no idea it was coming.
cher48603 at 12:37PM on 12/23/08
When my nephew, a chef at a five star resort, said my turkey was the most perfectly cooked he had ever seen!
Jilly at 1:19PM on 12/23/08
It was my 26th birthday. My closest friends were around my dining room table, the candles were lit, the food was on the table, I had just sucessfully roasted my first turkey. The scene was perfect, the food was fabulous, and it was all made better by my favourite people being there with me.
Peasantwench at 1:34PM on 12/23/08
sneaking bacon/pork into every item for a Passover meal.
Hess5534 at 1:36PM on 12/23/08
The 25th anniversary party I catered for my parents with only a little help from Mom and my former babysitter. I was 10 1/2 and it was fabulous. Since then, the first Thanksgiving I ever cooked away from home.
lisambb at 1:42PM on 12/23/08
Sit-down New Year's Eve supper for eight with champage and various crispy starters, beef wellington with mushroom duxelles and madeira sauce, wild mushroom and blue cheese potato gratin, salade composee of greens, asparagus, red onion and orange supremes, and chocolate mousse with port. A major hit!
Mizbee at 1:48PM on 12/23/08
my aunt's birthday this past week that I cooked everything from scratch for with thirty happy people
ssultan23 at 1:49PM on 12/23/08
The New Year's Eve breakfast party at 2 a.m. that I prepared for my husband's dance band and their spouses after the big gig -- cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy, eggs, fruit -- the works.
mkmarl01 at 2:11PM on 12/23/08
Making a coconut cream pie that was every bit as good as my mom's.
Spicy at 2:12PM on 12/23/08
being assigned to make my mom's birthday cake when i was 13. pineapple upside-down cake from joy of cooking, she still talks about it.
Jeane at 2:33PM on 12/23/08
My proudest moment was successfully pulling off a Christmas dinner for 21 people when our oven died the night before. Ever cooked a 20 pound turkey in a BBQ during a blizzard? Using charcoal? It was one of the best tasting turkeys I've ever cooked!
HouseDragon at 2:35PM on 12/23/08
Every May I host a Mother's Day Dessert Party for all of us Moms. Started doing it when my son was in elementary school and it's been a "must do" ever since!
zina1017 at 2:35PM on 12/23/08
preparing thanksgiving dinner for 10 friends who would otherwise be eating doritos
skim at 2:47PM on 12/23/08
It has to be the baby shower I threw where every single person asked me if it was catered. Such a hit!
brookeraymond at 2:55PM on 12/23/08
The comments I got for my crab dip were unforgettable.
jason@allworldautomotive.com
parkerozgood at 3:08PM on 12/23/08
The smoked turkey I did for Thanksgiving this year. It was a thing of beauty.
TheJTrain at 3:10PM on 12/23/08
Thanksgiving dinner I prepared a few years ago at a friend's place with a big nice kitchen. Turkey, stuffing, garlic mashed potatoes, gravy, tarte titin... they were all so tasty and all my friends loved them
piehole at 3:22PM on 12/23/08
When I entertain, I put out a huge buffet spread that no one can believe that I cooked it all and got it all together like that.
LIDARKSIDE at 3:27PM on 12/23/08
The first time I canned successfully. Almost as soon as I took the jars of summer greatness out of the hot water bath, i started to hear the wonderful sound of the the jars popping.
lakeloverhh at 4:02PM on 12/23/08
My last Super Bowl party .
pittypatty at 4:09PM on 12/23/08
My fondest/proudest - feeding a large group of friends studying for finals with a ricotta pancake/lime curd/maple cream breakfast. Considerably less sophisticated than a cocktail party, say, but arguably just as much fun.
miso at 4:27PM on 12/23/08
When I didn't screw up the turkey at Thanksgiving.
nokrapt at 4:31PM on 12/23/08
My first Thanksgiving dinner, which was more than 30 years ago. I made my mom's recipe for nut bread, which just made everything perfect!
dglitter at 4:50PM on 12/23/08
When I did an "orphan thanksgiving" for all of my pilot and flight attendant friends who didn't have family in town for the holiday. Best Thanksgiving ever.
bisbee at 5:31PM on 12/23/08
I think my proudest moment is yet to come if I win this book.
krusemark at 6:36PM on 12/23/08
It would have to be a Christmas Party.. I cooked liked a maniac! Familiy, extended family and friends.. I made a huge buffet style.. I have to say it was the most relaxing Christmas for me! Buffet Style is the way to go! I made Hor's D'ouerves, main courses, side dishes, desserts, both meat and vegetarian.. it was really a great party.. Huge success. all those years I slaved serving per person! Never again.. I had more fun this way.. all the work is done ahead of time.. and amazingly, even with all the amount of food I cooked there was practically nothing left! Goes to show you, when the hostess is relaxed and there is no one in the kitchen, everyone eats more! I seriously cooked for 40 or more people..there were only 20 and there wasnt anything but bits and crumbs left.. Since my car accident and head injury though, I have to say I cant remember how to prepare much.. I could really use this book.. I try to look online.. but having it on paper in front of you is the way to go for cooking recipes. I would really love this book.. I could use it right now for christmas this year.. Its harder to prepare these days. She makes everything great doesnt she?
helobuff at 8:00PM on 12/23/08
My proudest moment was my daughter's wedding shower. It was so beautiful, my daughter said it may be more beautiful than my wedding.
kbamos at 8:24PM on 12/23/08
my liver pate
dandylion at 8:27PM on 12/23/08
The first time my mother asked me for one of my recipes and turned the tables. Now I do the same with my daughters. We all miss my mother. She passed on her traditions, and we will always equate food prepared by and for us with love.
She was Martha's biggest fan. I'd love to have her book - I really don't have many recipes for appetizers and I love them!
PerkyMac at 8:38PM on 12/23/08
Cooking a standing rib roast for 12 people at the age of 21, nearly 35 years ago.
99203 at 8:54PM on 12/23/08
The first time I roasted a chicken was a pretty proud moment for me :)
Laurs87 at 9:03PM on 12/23/08
Twice I cooked hor d'oeuvres and dessert for 100 people and served it at my house.
silverbele at 9:13PM on 12/23/08
My Dad's 70th birthday party was a great event that turned out wonderfully!
fshapiro at 9:41PM on 12/23/08
Either: the first time I ever fried chicken, at my dad's special request.
Or: those gougères stuffed with duxelle.
Yrmencyn at 9:57PM on 12/23/08
My husband and I through a big BBQ for our next door neighbor's birthday.
fangirl at 10:20PM on 12/23/08
Serving my friends at my first dinner party in University. Full spread for 12 people, Chicken, pasta, potatoes, salads, dessert... It was a pretty great feeling. They never doubted my cooking skills after that.
jlweber at 10:32PM on 12/23/08
as a college student, hosting a barbecue for 20+. and everyone was fed!
cdcdcd at 10:52PM on 12/23/08
Election night party - I made a pitcher of margaritas, carnitas, various salsas, beans, tortillas. the carnitas were a hit and I was cooking for a bunch of trained professionals!
katfood at 10:57PM on 12/23/08
When I was still in high school I made the entire thanksgiving dinner for my family one year. Stayed up all night making Alton Brown's roast turkey because I didn't have a big enough vessel to cover the entire turkey in the brine so I had to turn it in the middle of the night. I fell asleep mid-dinner but people said it was the best turkey they've ever had.
kimbodian at 12:10AM on 12/24/08
My proudest home entertainment moment would be the first time I had my parents over to my new condo. I felt so proud.
ecfreitas579 at 12:22AM on 12/24/08
I did an open house & successfully made all of the appetizers myself. Everyone devoured them so I know that they were tasty
andeeram at 1:02AM on 12/24/08
My proudest moment was about a week ago - at the end of a long, difficult semester, I made a key lime pie for friends with real key limes (as in, the small ones you've got to squeeze 20 of to get the needed amount of juice..good times). There wasn't a crumb left on the plate : )
firni at 2:13AM on 12/24/08
My martini party I threw for my friends, it was a hit!
lsfish at 7:18AM on 12/24/08
My first Thanksgiving. I brined the turkey, made the dressing and cranberry sauce all from scratch. Everyone was amazed by how moist and flavorful the turkey was.
kevlney at 9:29AM on 12/24/08
proudest home entertaining moment was having dinner at my daughter's apartment for the first time - she's a fabulous cook and party-planner and I'd like to think all those years of cooking together were a major contributing factor!
gorzd at 10:06AM on 12/24/08
Receiving complements on my cooking from both my mother-in-law and father-in-law upon their first visit to our home
madeas at 10:30AM on 12/24/08
Shopping for, preparing for, cooking and hosting three meals for 20 consecutive days for four to six people at my beach house this past summer
harstark at 10:50AM on 12/24/08
A potluck Thanksgiving I had last year in my apartment in Montreal—I was in charge of the turkey and trimmings, and the guests were responsible for everything else. There was lots of great food, guests I didn't expect to see, and everyone had a great time!
Vincci at 10:58AM on 12/24/08
A holiday party for friends who weren't traveling during the holidays. We called it the Island of Holiday Misfits Party, and had a Christmas in the Islands theme. Pineapple with molasses, pomegranite ginger spiced punch, pulled pork shoulder, and so on.
MartyLentz at 11:25AM on 12/24/08
The first time I did a big Christmas meal and it all turned out pretty good and we all had fun.
miaj8 at 12:21PM on 12/24/08
We had a party for my mother-in-law's 50th birthday, 30 people, and I managed to cook everything successfully.
madball911 at 3:21PM on 12/24/08
This thanksgiving I found a sweet potato recipe that turned out really well and was very popular...no left overs and people were still asking for more.
reddon30 at 4:21PM on 12/24/08
The first time I threw a dinner party. A month after getting married, it was dinner for my parents and my in-laws. It was a lot of fun, and everyone enjoyed the food.
Klontra at 5:49PM on 12/24/08
The first loaf of bread I baked for a dinner party that didn't come out like a brick.
steadier571 at 7:38PM on 12/24/08
I learned well from my mother so always did well with hosting parties.
ktgonyea at 7:54PM on 12/24/08
It was when I was hosting vegans and I made a fab Mexican type teal using soy "ground beef" and soy sour cream and soy cheese, you get the picture, it all turned out well despite all the unfamiliar substitutions and they were really grateful and impressed.
rlzoeller at 8:25PM on 12/24/08
By far my proudest was when I served a full Thanksgiving dinner for 12 on the beach. It was my 1st year living on the beach and carrying all of that food from a stilt house down to sand was quite a feat in itself. The hardest part was keeping the sea gulls away while we were dining. But, it went off perfect and was enjoyed by all. The birds got to eat a little when we were finished.
SeahorseLady at 8:41PM on 12/24/08
making a fantastic seafood risotto for 5 of our closest friends...
uninorth at 12:24AM on 12/25/08
I made my first Thanksgiving dinner for my folks and my in-laws, and everything came out just perfect, I was so suprised, but delighted!
lubelle7 at 3:12AM on 12/25/08
My proudest home entertaining moment was when I made Thanksgiving dinner for over 20 members of my family. The food was delicious, and it was the first time on many years that we had all gotten to sit down for a meal together.
amylou61 at 7:13AM on 12/25/08
This last october I drove my grandfather and his wife to my dad's house and cooked everyone an amaing dinner of stuff I found out at the table they don't like, but loved anyways.
Sigilum at 12:06PM on 12/25/08
If no one ends up in the emergency room, I consider it a successful event.
bongeezer at 12:28PM on 12/25/08
When I hosted my first Christmas party complete with turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings.
It all tasted wonderful.
Lydiad1957 at 1:07PM on 12/25/08
I used hard boiled eggs with paper collars to duplicate each persons face, hair color, mustache, etc. for place seating.
Sunnyvale at 7:39PM on 12/25/08
My proudest moment was celebrating my 50th birthday party. I had over 100 people show between 3pm and midnight. We had plenty of food, drink and DESERTS... It was 2 years ago and people still comment on how much fun it was.
vdeliz at 8:23PM on 12/25/08
...seafood themed dinner....lobster tails to chilled spoons for lemon ice....center piece of live fish in underlit huge bowl...tons of detail as I enjoyed doing, more than the guests receiving...the way it should be!
pjlein at 8:44PM on 12/25/08
I made a homemade chicken pot pie for my mom and sister and they absolutely loved it!
yellowlabs at 9:30PM on 12/25/08
When we moved to our neighborhood 5 years ago, we invited all our new neighbors to an hors d'oeuvres and cocktail party. The neighbors themselves barely new each other. Now we're all close friends and we get together regularly.
wittybob at 10:22PM on 12/25/08
This is the first year my husband and I had Thanksgiving dinner at our home. Everything turned out great and I felt good for getting the dressing just right. Thank God for email cooking directions from my mom!
chrissy75007 at 11:12PM on 12/25/08
Holding my wedding reception at my house one month after moving in. All of the relatives stayed with us.
dnfenwick at 11:42PM on 12/25/08
My hubby's 40th birthday (3 years ago)....we served a bunch of shell fish: crab legs; crawdads. And we had a blast. Mine is in October. So we'll see if he can top it.
Mom2Ways at 1:39AM on 12/26/08
This is the first time I've had my own place, so no entertaining yet - but I hope to soon!
tomie at 5:13AM on 12/26/08
Just this past Thanksgiving, when I made EVERYTHING - appetizers, entrees, sides, desserts - from scratch. It was amazing, and I (and everyone else) loved it so much I'll be doing it again next year!
spitfyr323 at 8:23AM on 12/26/08
I love making snacks and always look for new ideas. I love having a neat tray of something to dazzel the kids with when they return home from school.
bbyrne at 10:03AM on 12/26/08
I moved ONE week before Christmas and still managed to have a full party for our family for Christmas. It was like hobo cooking!! I couldn't find a can opener and had to use a crazy thing the military calls a P38. I pulled it off perfectly with baked ham, baked Macaroni and cheese, Broccoli and rice casserole, Califlower and cashew salad, deviled eggs, Oyster stew, home baked bread, and hanky pankies, I made cookies and brownies and fudge and black bottom pie. No one left hungry or sad. I even managed a gift for each person.
JeansandTs at 12:05PM on 12/26/08
My proudest moment was the I survived my kids baptism. I really don't do entertaining well, I am shy, quiet, cheap and tired soo I was not looking forward to the party after. It worked out but I don't know how I did it.
malleycc at 2:10PM on 12/26/08
I survived throwing a huge 4th of July party for all our family!
wagonlover at 2:27PM on 12/26/08
thanksgiving dinner for 17!
hungrytoo at 2:28PM on 12/26/08
I was the 'ringleader' to a surprise birthday party in college. I baked a chocolate pie with our malfunctioning campus oven, snacks from the supermarket, marinated wings, and of course, economical birthday decorations with the use of cheap college toilet paper. Lovely...
gargupie at 2:34PM on 12/26/08
Hosting my first Thanksgiving dinner many years ago.
schnitzel at 2:57PM on 12/26/08
My husband and I cooked 8 dishes in one shot and invited 40 people over for my 23rd birthday celebration last month : ) It was fun & yum!
heikid at 3:16PM on 12/26/08
comfort food night with martha's mac&cheese and homemade chocolate pudding was a success with the picky eater college crowd.
musicalpandibear at 3:34PM on 12/26/08
Thanksgiving for 15 cooked entirely by moi in my eeensie-meansie NYC kitchen with no dishwasher or room for either a food processor, standing mixer or other appliances - everyone asked for seconds.
MMinNYC at 3:45PM on 12/26/08
Surprise 39th birthday party for my husband. He was expecting something big at 40, but I did it a year early! Great food (brie in puff pastry, ribeye roast, mustard crusted fingerling potatoes, roasted root veggies, creme brulee) and great friends made for a very memorable evening.
LBirk at 3:46PM on 12/26/08
a fellow worker was transferred out of state-I had a going away party for her- about 30 guests. I served hot and cold hors d'oeuvres. everything turned out beautiful
bison61 at 4:22PM on 12/26/08
food for a wine auction
Thomas6 at 4:53PM on 12/26/08
hosting my future daughter-in-laws wedding shower. food was great house looked good and i think she was happy with it.
barbaraeford@yahoo.com
bfordy at 4:57PM on 12/26/08
That Chocolate cake looks scrumptous!!!
diannamurrah at 5:04PM on 12/26/08
My proudest entertaining moment is when I made a gorgeous cheesecake for my mom and dad's anniversary party which was held at my house.
agsweeps (at) hotmail (dot) com
agsweeps at 5:08PM on 12/26/08
The Summertime Birthday Party :
-Margaritas (5 kinds) : Classic, Watrmelon-Basil, Kiwi, Ginger-Mint, and Passion fruit-Vanilla.
- Outdoor Fire Grilled Kebabs (3 kind) : Cumin Lamb Kebabs with Fresh Mango Chutney, Swordfish Kebabs with Lemon and Bay Leaves, and Shrimp Paste on Sugarcane with Lime-Chili Sauce.
- Grilled Corn.
- Grilled Sweet Onions.
- Watermelon Salad.
- Birthday Cake.
* Lots of work & turned out great!
HelloChris at 5:55PM on 12/26/08
I think my proudest moment would be recreating a special dinner that we enjoyed on our honeymoon in Williamsburg, Va.
Spicy at 6:12PM on 12/26/08
cooking full 3 course meal for my parents at home
zekks at 6:34PM on 12/26/08
Full tilt crepes suzette flambe!
gb944 at 6:38PM on 12/26/08
My first Thanksgiving after my mom passed away...never thought I could pull it off without her...neither did my family...I was so proud when my son said "mom its just like grandmas"...
gottawin69 at 8:10PM on 12/26/08
That would be the time I didn't burn anything, drop anything, or spill anything.
Aisling at 8:10PM on 12/26/08
Whenever we have a special occasion at my house I always make a wide array of appetizers. My proudest moment was when this past Thanksgiving at my inlaws house, my motherinlaw told my husband that she was going to put out lots of nice appetizers because I always do and she thought that it was always so nice.(By the way- they were over here yesterday for Christmas so I had to really shine after that!)
carolasar at 9:20PM on 12/26/08
I am 58 years old and just made my first ever turkey dinner. I didn't realize that it could be so easy and delicious. I made sure to take out all the gizzards from the bird before prepping it. I looked to the internet for lots of ways to cook the bird and made my own stuffing and gray too. I had my brother and his girlfriend over for dinner and they oohed and ahhed over my great dinner. I also, always make my own cranberry sauce and I decided to make sweet potatoes with pineapple, brown sugar and marshmallows. It was a memorable meal and I will surely do it again.
akiss at 9:21PM on 12/26/08
first dinner in my new home
jchic45102 at 9:32PM on 12/26/08
The first Thanksgiving at my home where invited family came and enjoyed themselves.
amgconz at 9:33PM on 12/26/08
My top moment was a big Christmas party I threw a few years ago. Everything went great!
nesta67 at 10:00PM on 12/26/08
Our big moment was This Thanksgiving. We brined the turkey, it was great. The kids came to the mountains (where we live) and just loved the turkey in the brine and then we put it into the oven, with their help. They help with the squash - they put marshmellows on the top of the squash. It was a wonderful Thanksgiving. The kids ate so much turkey and they loved the squash that they helped to make. :-)
lkjust at 10:52PM on 12/26/08
Making Passover dinner for forty hungry relatives
Indigo608 at 12:55AM on 12/27/08
Intimate gourmet dinner party for six guests which turned out to be the social event of the month.
azdave58 at 1:33AM on 12/27/08
I'd say making the Christmas cookies that folks raved about, besting my mother and mother-in-law.
jayfr at 1:37AM on 12/27/08
Having all my husbands friends over and they were amazed at my array of food I prepared, I was so proud that night.
joanpieroni2 at 9:14AM on 12/27/08
My proudest home entertaining was last night. We have a friend going away to boot camp in tomorrow so the only chance we had to give him a going away party was last night. The day after a very hectic Christmas. I managed to get the house spotless and make a perfect lasagna and not-to-shabby home made apple pie for everyone and entertain them as well.
jennielee685 at 10:10AM on 12/27/08
We don't often entertain at our house because it's just not meant to fit a lot of people in all at once. But I did enjoy having a few friends over for a girls night in, chick flicks, facial masks and wine!
Tarah716 at 11:03AM on 12/27/08
the first time we hosted thanksgiving dinner and didn't overcook the turkey!
nancy1 at 12:58PM on 12/27/08
My proudest moment was when we hosted our "First Annual Ornament Exchange Party" and I made a whole bunch of food & appetizers, and everyone raved about how good they were. Of course, I always love new ideas, and who better than Martha Stewart for creative ideas!
mtejen at 2:53PM on 12/27/08
The first time I served food that wasn't baked ziti
tracker at 7:27PM on 12/27/08
My proudest moment was this Christmas—my first Christmas as a married man—when I cooked dinner for my wife and my parents. Everything was perfect, from the ham to the sour cream, chive, and Parmesan mashed potatoes, to the bourbon-laced cranberries, to the exquisite corn pudding. The best part was being surrounded by the people who I love.
danwalk at 8:40PM on 12/27/08
This Thanksgiving, my son was teasing me with a count down at 1:59 since dinner was to be at 2. The rolls came out and dinner was done at 2 on the dot.
imicindy at 8:46PM on 12/27/08
When I was just a teen, I saved up my money and used my skills I learned in Home Ec class, and made a crown roast dinner with all kinds of fixings for my parents anniversary. I still remember it clearly - even 25 years later, and my parents still talk about it fondly. That was one of my proudiest moments ever!
Thanks for the great giveaway.
fairydancer at 9:47PM on 12/27/08
developing my first original recipe and serving it to my family, who are picky eaters—they loved it!
beadprincessk at 11:28PM on 12/27/08
My proudest moment was my xmas party that I invited about 2 dozen friends. I had lots of finger foods, and worked hard to prepare them.
Ardy22 at 11:39PM on 12/27/08
We hosted an Oscars party we hosted for about 10 people; we made everything themed to the five nominated best picture films. Our guests still talk about it.
anuerism at 12:04AM on 12/28/08
Christmas eve, this year, at my dad's family's gathering. I made a salad that consisted of spinach, radicchio, red onion, goat cheese, honeycrisp apples, and candied pecans. It all got eaten, by a family that hardly eats anything, let alone salad. And the MEN came back for seconds, said how good it was, how they wanted to put it on the menu at their restaurant. Yowza!
veggiegirl at 1:16AM on 12/28/08
My proudest entertaining moment is my annual Halloween party - I spend days and days preparing a huge buffet of Halloween themed food - Vampire cupcakes, Mummy Hot Dogs, Haunted Castle Cake, the list goes on. Every year I try to top myself. Thanks so much for the giveaway!
hardertobreathe at 3:11AM on 12/28/08
My husband's 50th birthday was my proudest moment. I organized a surprise party that surprised me too - it turned out majestic. Everyone had a super time. We played games for prizes.
zwriter at 8:51AM on 12/28/08
An enjoyable and delicious meal where half of us spoke French, half spoke English, and only 1 spoke both.
renzata at 11:54AM on 12/28/08
Proudest moment was last New Years Eve when my family came up from Orlando to celebrate the holiday. I made so many appetizers and food. Hollowed out bread with spinach dip, hot wings from scratch, stuffed crab puffs, vegetable cheese trays, grilled brats, grilled marinated chicken breasts, pasta salad, macaroni salad and the best tropical drinks. It was was so great to be with my family.
tamaraben at 2:34PM on 12/28/08
It would have to be every Christmas. I am always in charge of the food and everyone always has a great time. This Christmas we had 19 people at our home.
pwriter at 3:36PM on 12/28/08
My favorite entertaining moment was when I invited my pregnant neighbor and her family over for dinner at the last minute. We just happen to be having lasagna, salad, and garlic bread--and we had enough food and everything was perfectly cooked!! She was relieved she didn't have to cook with her pregnancy pains and all, and I think I fooled her and her husband into thinking this perfect meal was the "norm" in our house!! ha ha!
coloradochick at 3:45PM on 12/28/08
My fav. entertaining time is at Christmas with family..lots of food and fun.
Angelsminx at 4:09PM on 12/28/08
My proudest was actually this past Christmas when I pulled off a family Christmas meal for 14 while being snowed in for the five days prior.
kohndr at 4:39PM on 12/28/08
I threw a large (50+ people), going away party for a friend of mine. Before that I had never entertained more than 10 people at one time. I was broke so I cooked every single bit of the food myself (including two kinds of handmade yeast rolls - I was especially proud of those). I started a month ahead of time (Thank heavens for freezers). I had everything from soup to nuts and then some, including a decorated cake. The party was a huge success; there was plenty of every kind of food; everyone raved about the dishes. I've always been really proud of it.
page48 at 5:03PM on 12/28/08
I hosted a build-your-own pasta dinner party. Everyone selected their preferred pasta noodle, chose a white cream or red sauce, and chose
whatever extras they wanted on top like vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
I served a build-your-own salad bar also. This party was a hit with everyone and one type of party I will repeat.
caverde at 6:32PM on 12/28/08
My favorite moment involved dual cooks, me and my husband have always been a great team. We invited a couple of friends, who invited their friends, who invited theirs....well you can see how this went. We have planned for 15 and ended up with over 70! Good thing I can whip up side dishes like they are free and dh is super greaa at hotwings and mini pizzas. The kids served drinks (no alcohol) and we had a blast all night.
esperfect at 7:01PM on 12/28/08
I actually never entertained at home but I was proud when I made 4 pecan pies from scratch and my relatives ate all of them at the family reunion even with a large variety of desserts to choose from.
Of course , I was also a bit dismayed that I hadn't made an extra one for home.
ladycat713 at 7:26PM on 12/28/08
I was most proud when I made lasagne for about 30 people, and my sweet Italian Grandfather, who was a chef, asked me for my recipe!
mgreenfield1102 at 7:58PM on 12/28/08
My proudest moment was when I threw together creamy potatoe soup and crusty rolls for a quick meal for unexpected friends and they all asked me for the recipe.
bambi4 at 8:03PM on 12/28/08
My proudest moment was the first Thanksgiving I made in our new home for our entire family!
smokeykat at 8:42PM on 12/28/08
Football nite snacks
lezanac at 8:54PM on 12/28/08
I entertain often, but once I hosted a Baby shower for a collegue. My work friends had never been to any of my events and they were so impressed by the cooking and games I came up with. I was very pleased with the situation!
cbdileo at 8:58PM on 12/28/08
Back in '97 I experienced a moment of insantity and attempted to build Marthas Buech de noel. 24 eggs, 3 lbs of butter and half a gallon of cream later I found my self trying to make "realistic" mushrooms using merange and a bic lighter...
In the end it presented beautifuly but was so rich we could barely eat it!
Colengal at 9:04PM on 12/28/08
Back in the early 1990s, I threw a party in my tiny one BR and invited a wide mix of people, including artists, musicians, business types, etc. It was BYOB but I provided a keg of beer, Jello shooters and food. It was a blast, and people still talk about what a great party that was! Those were the days!
missm at 10:19PM on 12/28/08
The first year after I got married I had a 'dry run' Thanksgiving with friends. It was great and everything turned out okay, though I had hubby help with the turkey.
jnmacdonald at 10:35PM on 12/28/08
Years ago I was in charge of making desserts for Thanksgiving and I made about twelve different pastries and everyone just raved about them.
atreau at 11:01PM on 12/28/08
My first Thanksgiving turkey/meal all by myself. It came out so good too, I haven't made one as tasty since.
Summermouse at 11:36PM on 12/28/08
I had a baby shower where we had fruit on a skewer that looked like a plant that I made by myself.
rosannepm at 11:39PM on 12/28/08
My proudest home entertaining moment was the fantastic cake I made for my daughter's first birthday party.
lyonsksl at 11:46PM on 12/28/08
My proudest moment was cooking Thanksgiving dinner all by myself one year. I come from a very large family and usually everyone brings one or two dishes, and my Mother does the turkey and ham. One year she went to visit my sister in California, so I cooked the entire dinner for everyone, I was a nervous wreck all morning, but everything turned out great!
smann1111 at 11:48PM on 12/28/08
I love to make desserts! My proudest moment was the wonderful compliments that I got on my chocolate raspberry cake.
iowamom at 11:52PM on 12/28/08
I am not sure that I have experienced a true "proud moment" yet. There are occasions such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and St. Patrick's Day when we have family and friends over where I'll try my hand at decorating and appetizers. I consider it more "fun" than a proud moment.
mabyn at 12:05AM on 12/29/08
cooking a huge dinner for my bf's family, and the satisfaction of watching everyone clear their plates!
QK224 at 12:05AM on 12/29/08
I have had a successful time cooking holiday dinners for my rather large family for the past several years. This past Thanksgiving was rather successful and I am always proud when everyone wants seconds.
Bakersdozen at 1:47AM on 12/29/08
I hosted a large Opera Guild fundraiser cocktail party for a picky crowd of opera-goers and was told my hor d'oeuvres(all my own recipes) were the best of any fundraiser they'd ever had...the food was all gone, too.
hickcrazy1 at 2:20AM on 12/29/08
just some christmas parties for my friends
JOYVEN at 2:35AM on 12/29/08
When I first made a meal that my mom actually liked
sdeas at 3:04AM on 12/29/08
i made some delicious deviled eggs, i thought people wouldn't like them, but they ate them up! i was happy about that!
samanthapayntr at 4:30AM on 12/29/08
Each Christmas Eve when Ma insists that I make the cheese-olive balls and bacon wrap-arounds.
rubbermonkey at 7:22AM on 12/29/08
I haven't done home entertaining before but would like to learn more about it.
lilyk at 8:39AM on 12/29/08
I always have a big buffet dinner and have the whole family over. It is crowded and crazy, but a lot of fun.
arvard at 8:44AM on 12/29/08
Hosting the family Christmas dinner this year.
TNFarmer at 8:47AM on 12/29/08
Hosting a buffet style Christmas Dinner with lots of friends.
nicnac at 8:55AM on 12/29/08
Cooking my first Thanksgiving turkey for my husband. garrettsambo@aol.com
garrettsambo at 9:23AM on 12/29/08
I impressed our self- described foodie friend with some excellent chicken and comfort (mushroom vermicelli) rice. Once we all got together and made a Big Night meal for about a dozen people and that was pretty awesome.
Stufsocker at 9:56AM on 12/29/08
My proudest entertaining moment was when I was 10 years old, and cooked an entire dinner for my family, to earn my Girl Scout Cooking Badge!!
martuley at 10:08AM on 12/29/08
ok I must say I'm a little redneck in my whole hordoeuves..category...My big one is little smokies wrapped in bacon and smother in brown sugar until caremilzed...they are always a crowd hit..so I guess that is my proudest moment..the fact I can bring a starter that is such a crowd hit.
sweetypieinsc at 10:09AM on 12/29/08
First time I successfully baked bread
lakeloverhh at 10:30AM on 12/29/08
The first time I made the entire Thanksgiving meal myself.
pancak at 10:38AM on 12/29/08
Creating a venison and wild rice casserole my non-hunting in-laws actually enjoyed as a Thanksgiving side dish.
hungrylikethewolf at 11:12AM on 12/29/08
A holiday party for 80 in my 1-bedroom apartment. We pushed the furniture to the wall, rented a rack for coats (we were having a wet Chicago winter) and cooked for days in prep. It was a smash hit!
Peregrine at 11:32AM on 12/29/08
Having a very big holiday dinner for my immediate family. A donor adopted my family for Christmas allowing us to a Great Christmas!
Naddez at 11:42AM on 12/29/08
My proudest home entertaining moment was a huge Fourth of July party in our new house.
katybug at 12:02PM on 12/29/08
I made chicken tortilla soup and everyone wanted seconds! It was great!
cowleyh at 12:23PM on 12/29/08
Mine was a birthday party for my daughter that included a carnival theme.
Nesie at 12:23PM on 12/29/08
The birthday party for my brother. Made a cake that looked like a Rocket. Had the USA on it and was fantastic. Then I left it on the oven (with burner on) and some little kid screamed it was taking off (not kidding). Came in and the cardboard the cake was on had started to burn. It was taking off. The kids loved it.
off2europe at 12:41PM on 12/29/08
When my dessert comes out wonderful for a dinner party!
mrstrooper at 2:00PM on 12/29/08
we moved away from our family and the first time that they came to visit and was amazed at the spread I put on. I never hosted and did all the food before, just brought something. I really shined and they were amazed. Thanks to my love of my cookbooks!!
healthygirl at 2:16PM on 12/29/08
Latke parties! They get better every year.
Mama Beckala at 2:41PM on 12/29/08
I cooked equal portions of chicken breasts and halibut on the grill, and over half our 20 guests said they didn't normally like fish. But I went around and persuaded them to take a two-bite portion anyway. At the end of the dinner, all the halibut was gone and we had four chicken breasts for leftovers.
abeaudet at 3:49PM on 12/29/08
I put Cheetohs and Milk Duds into separate bowls!
saturdaynightfever at 6:17PM on 12/29/08
I made finger foods and had play stations set up much like mini golf for the neighbor kids at Christmas. They ate, drank and played nerf bow and arrow, pin the nose on Rudolph and made snowflakes.
pwhite98270 at 6:20PM on 12/29/08
I make mimosas with different juices: orange, pomegranate, cranberry, blueberry/acai.
louiseb130 at 7:49PM on 12/29/08
I remember we had a couple of friends and their kids over for dinner for the first time and they all went back three times for more food (even the wife). Now that made us feel good.
blueviolet at 8:21PM on 12/29/08
making my first dinner for my in laws from ny. The walked in the door and i dropped the whole pot of beef burgondy and rice all over the kitchen. i about died!
gimmesweeps2 at 8:33PM on 12/29/08
My proudest moment entertaining was having a dinner party in the middle of a tropical storm. The power went out, but we cooked what hadn't been already made on the grill and ate by candlelight. It ended up being the most fun party I've had.
decadent at 8:44PM on 12/29/08
My proudest was cooking a perfect 17 lbs prime rib for Christmas
peggy1116 at 9:53PM on 12/29/08
A beer basted ham for christmas dinner!
joyciesdotcom at 12:30AM on 12/30/08
I have a couple and for sentimental reasons, I don't think I could pick one over the other, so here goes...
* When my daughter was 2, I made a seated dinosaur cake from a Wilton bowling pin pan and an egg cake pan. It took me an entire day to make but the collective gasp that went out when I presented it made every second worthwhile.
* The first time I glove boned a turkey and filled it with vegetable pate, my mother gazed fondly down at the beautifully burnished bird with its hidden surprise. When I told her the only bones left were in the drumsticks and wings, she shook her head, exhaled slowly, and in her inimitable way said, "Well, I'll be damned."
* Last year I prepared Italian Christmas Eve for 14 people. It was the largest gathering for which I had ever attempted this feast. The dinner went off without a hitch. My boyfriend's family were present (non-Italians) and the look of wonder on their faces during the entire meal will stay with me forever.
therealchiffonade at 3:14PM on 12/30/08
Honestly, I can't think of any specific moment, but showing my love of friends and family with the care I put into the meals I make for them, and hearing their appreciation makes me happy and proud.
PerkyMac at 4:33PM on 12/30/08
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