"I've been telling everyone about the absolutely incredible birthday meal I had at Park Avenue Café here in New York City," writes Sherri Steinfeld Maxman of New York City. "The knee-weakening menu included Burke's famous "pastrami" salmon; a morel flan served with eggshells nestled in eggcups; basil-rubbed rack of lamb with oven-dried tomato ravioli; Camembert fondue with truffle essence; and a dazzling array of desserts."
Executive chef David Burke uses the term fondue freely, in this case applying it to a truffle-flavored cream sauce served with a slice of Camembert. He likes to use Hudson Valley Camembert, a blend of sheep's and cow's milk. It is available by mail order from the cheesemaker, Old Chatham Sheepherding Company in Old Chatham, New York , tel. (888)743-3760.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
In a 1-quart heavy saucepan cook shallot in unsalted butter, covered, over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add cream and simmer, uncovered, until reduced to about 2/3 cup. Remove pan from heat and stir in truffle butter or oil until incorporated. Season sauce with salt and pepper and sprinkle with chives.
Step 2
Cut Camembert into 4 pieces and arrange on 4 plates. Divide warm sauce among plates, spooning it on either side of cheese. Arrange pear slices, grapes, and walnuts around cheese and serve bread on the side.
Step 3
*available at some specialty food shops
