Sometimes I think my papa is an accordion. When he looks at me and smiles and breathes, I hear the notes. – Markus Zusak, The Book Thief

Dear Customers,

We so enjoyed having Chef Renee share foods as she spoke of summer entertaining. It was a delight and a reminder that as summer approaches, memories can be made with the right amount of preparation.

Chef Renee’s Summer Entertaining – Kitchen Essentials

For recipes and talking points from Chef Renee’s Summer Luncheon class go to the blog section of Herma’s website.

Chef Renee’s Summer Luncheon Class – Recipes and Suggestions

Important Tools for the Kitchen

Chef Renee did a lot of chopping of fruits and veggies during her class and really stressed the importance of having a few good-quality essential tools for the kitchen. Keep in mind, good-quality will last for years and will perform better.

The following kitchen tools are must-haves for Chef Renee…

Pairing Knife – Serrated Knife – Tongs – Peeler – Cutting Board – Large Wooden Board

Chef Renee is convinced these are the best…

Global Knives

GLOBAL knives are made from the finest stainless steel material. The blades utilize CROMOVA 18 stainless steel which holds a razor sharp edge longer than any other steel and resists rust, stains and corrosion. Like the Samurai swords before them, each knife is carefully weighted to ensure perfect balance in the hand. – Global Knives

Chef Renee said the two musts, in terms of knives, the ones she uses in the kitchen 75% of the time, are a couple of good pairing knives and a good serrated knife.

Epicurean Boards

Chef Renee also couldn’t say enough about the Epicurean Cutting Board.

These were her talking points…

1. Easy on your knives, so you will sharpen less.
2. Non-porous and dishwasher safe.
3. Heat resistant up to 350°F / 176°C, so you may use as a trivet.
4.  They are also eco-friendly!

Also a Chef Renee recommendation – Harry’s Wooden Boards, perfect for showcasing foods, especially cheese!

Other suggested kitchen essentials that may be found at Herma’s…

Cuisipro Tongs,  Dreamfarm Clongs, Zyliss Handheld 2-in-1 Slicer (containing both a Julienne Cutter and a Serrated Blade)…the list goes on and on.

Taco’s Find – NEW at Herma’s

Five Piece Brooklyn Copper Fanned Knife Set

Attractive! Knives have black blades with copper accented handles. The knife block allows knives to be fanned out any way you like. Ergonomic rubber handles on knives provide for improved comfort and control. 2-year guarantee!

Taco is also excited to introduce a matching set to the above – Brooklyn Copper 4-Piece Steak Knife Set.

As a man that likes to cook himself, he is confident in saying these knives would make a fabulous Father’s Day Gift.

Gordon’s Idea of Father’s Day Bliss

Beautiful Gift Baskets

At present we have three ready for purchase, two for the man that likes to create delicious foods and one to make the man smell delicious.

You may also call 905-885-9250 or stop by to have a gift basket custom-made.

Herma’s Father’s Day Suggestion

Herma believes that a beautiful, good quality bottle of olive oil would be wonderful for the man that likes to stock his kitchen with only the very best. For just the right kind of man, it would be just as nice to receive as an expensive  bottle of champagne.

The Cheese Shop

We are brimming over with cheeses that are fabulous for entertaining and also fun for snacking.

This week Cathy and Denise would like to draw your attention to an outstanding cheese producer located in Mississippi Station, Ontario.

Back Forty Artisan Cheese

All of the Artisan Back Forty Cheeses we carry are made with raw ewe’s milk.

They include…

Bonnechere

Its rind was toasted over an open flame before aging, giving it a delicious caramel essence which permeates the body of the cheeses as it ages, and provides a delicious contrast to the tangy and fruity body of the cheese.

Highland Blue

Highland Blue is a tangy and rich blue cheese with a natural rind and delicate overtones of blue mold combined with butter and mushroom. A Royal Winter Fair ribbon winner!

Madawaska

Tastes and textures of this cheese range from a chalky, slightly tangy centre to a soft, sweet and slightly salty cream under the rind. Named one of the ten best cheeses in Toronto according to Toronto Life!

Ompah

Frequent rind washings encourage the growth of brevibacterium  linens (b-linens) on this cheese which is the natural and desirable mold responsible for the characteristic orange rind, smell and flavor.

We hope you will visit soon as you stock up on goodies for all the delightful fun to be had this time of year!

Best wishes for a happy June and don’t forget to shop for Father’s Day!

Sincerely,

Meredith Ender

Communication Coordinator

Herma’s Fine Foods & Gifts