Sourced from Chef’s Table Society of BC
When spring comes around, my thoughts turn to spot prawns (and love, of course). The sustainable and local product has a sweet, delicate flavour that is unbeatable. This year, the Chef’s Table Society of British Columbia celebrates the ten year anniversary of the highly popular Spot Prawn Festival with three unique events for feasting on this glorious seafood.
Since my boyfriend’s version of cooking is pouring sauce from a jar onto pasta, cooking spot prawns are a wee bit daunting for him. Lately, he’s been wanting us to take a cooking class together, but I just haven’t found the right one for us. An event in the spot prawn fest line-up might just be the thing.
Sign up for cooking classes ($35 plus GST and a service charge) that will take place May 14 at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA) and will be led by chef Darren Clay, executive culinary chef instructor at PICA, and chef Robert Clark, founder of the festival. During the one hour class (offered six times during that day), learn how to choose and store spot prawns, as well as how to prep and cook them. You’ll also be served a spot prawn dish and get to pose your burning questions during the Q&A. Participants will take home a PICA apron, and get a 10% discount for fresh spot prawns at The Fish Counter. This event would make for a perfect date since it’s interactive, doesn’t take too long, and will teach you important, delicious skills. Plus, there’s something sexy about someone who’s mastered grilling spot prawns.
Sourced from Chef’s Table Society of BC
If you’re looking for a more lavish date, the inaugural Spot Prawn Gala is set for May 13 at the Vancouver Club. This black-tie optional event gives the two of you an excuse to get dressed up and celebrate spot prawns in grand style. The evening will start with cocktails and canapés before moving onto a six-course meal (with drink pairings), prepared by notable chefs, including Angus An, Ned Bell, and Sean Cousins. Sorbet from Bella Gelateria and dessert will finish your night. Tickets are $200 (plus GST and a service charge) and available on-line, with proceeds going to Ocean Wise.
Sourced from Chef’s Table Society of BC (dish at last year’s fest from ORU Cuisine)
Spot Prawn Festival, of course, wouldn’t be complete without the annual Spot Prawn Boil, which will be held May 15 at the False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf. Basically, you and your sweetie get the chance to nosh on fresh, boiled spot prawns while watching chef demos. You can also purchase the seafood from the boats for more spot prawn cooking fun.
Sourced from the Chef’s Table Society of BC
Boil tickets will be $17.50 (plus GST and a service charge) and are available for purchase on-line. This year, there are four time slots to sign up for, in order to keep wait times to a minimum.
Sourced from the Chef’s Table Society of BC
