New York Restaurant Week comes around twice a year, once in July-August, once in January-February. During this week, participating restaurants offer a menu of 3-course meals (appetizer/entree/dessert) for $42. In New York City that’s often the price of just an entree, so put it all together and it’s a pretty sweet deal.
Uncharacteristically, I planned ahead for Restaurant Week this winter – I was that excited about it. When I snagged a Saturday night reservation for Morimoto, of Iron Chef fame, I was thrilled. This was something I’d tried to do during previous Restaurant Weeks but always failed – Morimoto is one of those New York restaurants that you must book well in advance. I’d never watched an episode of Iron Chef, but with that kind of exclusivity and because this restaurant consistently appears at the top of every Best of Restaurant Week list, I knew it was going to be a good meal.
But before I get to the good stuff, let me share:
A Trio of New York Restaurant Week Fails
1. Not making a reservation
Restaurant Week is popular and the best restaurants get completely booked, so do this in advance!
2. Expecting to share anything
My fella and I aren’t big eaters, we always share dishes when we go out. Well, we got shamed for trying to share dishes during Restaurant Week this year! We got away with it in the past…so I don’t know if they cracked down on NO SHARING this year, or we just got lucky before with a chill server. The moral of the story is, if you go out for Restaurant Week, everyone should plan on getting the prix fixe 3 courses (for us that means a ton of leftovers).
3. Check the participation of the specific restaurant! Lots have specific stipulations!
I say this because I learned it the hard way. Turns out, Morimoto only participates in Restaurant Week on weekdays!!! This is how I was able to get that Saturday night reservation! I was so bummed when we learned this – after we’d already sat down and looked through the menu!
I was worried we wouldn’t be able to afford the meal without the deal, but everything worked out in the end. We shared an appetizer, each got an entree, and skipped dessert. That bill was about the same as the prix fixe would have been. My waistline is thanking me for not getting dessert (but my taste buds are still cursing me)!
Dinner at Morimoto, NYC
So, how was dinner at Morimoto, even with the disappointment of missing the killer Restaurant Week deal?
It was still amazing. The food here is so creative and fresh, everything we ate (and peeked at on neighboring tables) was exciting and delicious. The whole experience of this restaurant was a delight.
For an appetizer, we ordered the “Heirloom Carrot”. Which I know, sounds like a terrible thing to order anywhere – a plate of carrots?? – but oh my god it was so good!
Miso marinated carrots that were cooked perfectly on top of an incredible pistachio-fennel paste and topped with Asian pear. It was truly one of those meals you have to taste to understand. But seriously, the most delicious plate of carrots ever!
For entrees, we ordered two to share, thinking the portions might be smaller than what’s typical here in America. We got the Seabass and the Ishi Yaki Bop with yellowtail. Portions were actually pretty substantial, but we didn’t have any problem clearing our plates.
The Ishi Yaki Bop was prepared tableside, making it a total dining experience. Raw fish was seared on the side of a hot stone bowl and our server walked us through everything he was doing to make this rice dish absolutely awesome.
The Seabass was cooked perfectly. It’s the first time I’ve ever eaten cooked fish and not wanted to squeeze lemon all over it. The flavor was perfect, miso and umami are used expertly here. Tempura avocado and Japanese eggplant were the perfect complements to the fish for this dish.
The desserts looked excellent and as I sit here writing about the meal, I absolutely wish we had gotten one. But, at the time, I was perfectly full and leaving a restaurant feeling stuffed isn’t my favorite. Besides, now I have the perfect reason to go back! Here are some dessert descriptions from the Morimoto menu to get you excited too:
Nama Tofu
soy cloud cheesecake, kuromitsu coffee, almond, shiratama, shiso
Shiro Choko
kinako, white chocolate, sesame, passion fruit sorbet, marble meringue
Hoji Mori
hojicha entremet, cinnamon, miso snow, hazelnut, sesame, orange ice cream
I can’t identify all the ingredients in any of those, but that’s part of the fun. I have zero doubt that they all taste phenomenal – I think it’s hard to go wrong when ordering from this restaurant. There is so much thought put into every dish and aspect of this place. I say this as someone who isn’t a foodie at all and doesn’t really get hyped about eating out – the dining experience at Morimoto is absolutely worth it. Go for a fancy meal, especially if you enjoy eating outside the box.
Unrelated. Comments are closed on your Jan 7 post about your job. I finally located this. Might be of interest. https://hellomylivia.wordpress.com/2015/01/30/my-job-doesnt-make-me-happy/
New York Restaurant Week at Morimoto sounds like an amazing experience. You’ve starts with an enticing description of the restaurant’s ambiance and the sushi bar. The detailed account of each course, along with the accompanying photographs, had my mouth watering. I appreciate your honesty about the service and the standout dishes they tried. Overall, this review has piqued my interest in trying Morimoto during New York Restaurant Week.
By dining at local restaurants, patrons contribute to the local economy, supporting small businesses and job creation within the community.
You have closed comments on your job ad from January 7. I’ve found this at last. Perhaps of interest
The Ultimate Guide to Making Mouthwatering Curry Goat
Curry goat is a beloved dish in many cultures, especially in the Caribbean. Its rich, bold flavors have made it a staple at family gatherings, festive occasions, and even weeknight dinners. For those looking to explore the tastes of the Caribbean, mastering the Curry Goat Recipe is a must.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create the perfect curry goat dish, discuss its history, and offer tips to elevate your cooking. Whether you’re new to curry or a seasoned cook, this article will give you everything you need to make a delicious, authentic curry goat that’s bound to impress.
The History of the Curry Goat Recipe
Before diving into the curry goat recipe, it’s interesting to understand its origins. The dish is a fusion of Indian and Caribbean flavors, a result of the migration of Indian laborers to the Caribbean islands during the 19th century. These laborers brought with them the techniques of cooking curry, which over time merged with local Caribbean ingredients and culinary traditions.
Goat meat, known for its rich flavor and tenderness, became the protein of choice for many Caribbean dishes. Thus, the iconic curry goat was born. Today, it is especially popular in Jamaica, where it is often served at special occasions like weddings, holidays, and festivals.
Ingredients for Curry Goat Recipe
To make the perfect curry goat recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
2 lbs of goat meat, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons of curry powder
1 tablespoon of allspice (pimento)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional for heat)
1 piece of fresh ginger, grated
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
2 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, cubed
1 cup of coconut milk
2 cups of water or broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking oil (for browning the meat)
These ingredients make a hearty and flavorful dish. The key to getting that authentic taste is balancing the spices, and the coconut milk adds richness to the gravy, while the Scotch bonnet brings heat to the dish, which can be adjusted depending on your spice tolerance.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Curry Goat Recipe
1. Marinating the Goat Meat
The first and most crucial step in making a flavorful curry goat recipe is marinating the meat. In a large bowl, combine the goat pieces with the curry powder, allspice, garlic, onions, ginger, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the bowl and let the goat marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor.
2. Browning the Meat
Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated goat meat, and brown it on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavor and locks in the spices. Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
3. Cooking the Curry
In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the onions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper until they are soft and fragrant. Add a tablespoon of curry powder and toast it lightly to bring out its full flavor.
4. Adding the Meat and Simmering
Return the browned goat meat to the pot. Add the water or broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the goat meat is tender. Halfway through the cooking time, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. These vegetables will absorb the curry flavors and help thicken the gravy.
5. Finishing the Curry Goat
Once the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, stir in the coconut milk. Let the curry simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
The Curry Goat Recipe is Easy to Make
Though it may seem like a long process, making a mouthwatering curry goat recipe is actually quite simple. Once you’ve mastered the steps, you’ll find it easy to replicate this dish whenever you crave a comforting and flavorful meal. Whether you’re serving this to your family on a casual evening or impressing guests at a special occasion, this dish never fails to satisfy.
How to Serve Curry Goat
Curry goat is traditionally served with rice and peas, a classic Caribbean side dish made with kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices. The combination of the creamy rice and the rich, flavorful goat curry creates a perfect balance.
Other great sides for curry goat include:
Steamed white rice: A simple yet effective way to soak up the flavorful curry sauce.
Fried plantains: Sweet and soft, fried plantains add a lovely contrast to the savory curry.
Roasted vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, peppers, and zucchini will bring a fresh, healthy element to your meal.
Variations of Curry Goat Recipes
While the classic curry goat recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations that can add a unique twist to the dish. Here are a few popular alternatives:
Jamaican Curry Goat: This version uses Jamaican curry powder, which has a slightly different blend of spices compared to other types of curry. It’s also usually spicier, thanks to the Scotch bonnet peppers.
Trinidadian Curry Goat: In Trinidad, curry goat is often cooked with green seasoning, a mixture of fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, and thyme. This adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
Slow Cooker Curry Goat: For those who prefer a hands-off approach, you can prepare curry goat in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the goat is tender.
Why You Should Try Making Curry Goat
If you’ve never made curry goat before, now is the time to give it a try. Not only is the dish packed with flavor, but it’s also a great way to explore new cuisines and expand your cooking skills. The curry goat recipe is easy to make once you get the hang of it, and the results are more than worth the effort.
Plus, goat meat is a healthier alternative to beef or pork, as it is lower in fat and cholesterol while still being rich in protein. When paired with the right spices and ingredients, it becomes a nutritious and flavorful option for a satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Curry goat is a dish that represents a fusion of cultures, bringing together the bold spices of Indian cuisine with the hearty flavors of Caribbean cooking. The curry goat recipe has a long history, and today, it remains a favorite in homes around the world. Whether you’re following a traditional recipe or experimenting with your own twist, you’ll find that this dish is full of vibrant flavors and textures that will make it a staple in your kitchen.
From its rich history to its modern variations, curry goat is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. Try out this mouthwatering curry goat recipe today, and discover why it has stood the test of time.
New York Restaurant Week at Morimoto sounds like an unforgettable experience! The description of the restaurant’s sleek, modern ambiance and the impressive sushi bar really sets the stage. The detailed breakdown of each course, along with the mouth-watering photographs, had me craving every bite. I also appreciate the honest feedback about the service and the standout dishes you tried. Overall, this review has definitely sparked my interest in checking out Morimoto during New York Restaurant Week