A Special Birthday Celebration!

There's a very special birthday coming up! My Dad remarried a very special lady and it's her 29th birthday (at least that's what we tell everyone!) Annie loves Ruth's Chris -  so, my sister and I decided to recreate the experience for her (albeit there are 4 more kids and 1 more dogs than would typically be allowed at a Ruth's Chris reservations).  The menu for the evening is:

Appetizers:

My sister was in charge and she did such an amazing job! We enjoyed appetizers such as:

Spinach Dip
Mushroom Cups
Egg Rolls

It's not a secret that I prefer the appetizers to the main dish and tonight was no let down!!

Main Course: Ruth's Chris Ribeye 

I couldn't find the copycat recipe for the Ruth's Chris Ribeye so I pieced together a bunch of recipes and notes people had made from their Ruth's Chris visit.

1. The most important piece. Good, no great meat.  You can't skimp here.  While I was unable to find dry aged beef as some recommended, don't go for anything less than Choice for a special occasion. The birthday girl requested ribeye, but this recipe also works for a filet.

2. The only seasoning needed is salt and pepper.  Coat and rub into both sides.  It is super important to get the meat to room temperature before cooking.

3. In a cast iron pan melt a small amount of butter and heat the pan as hot as you can get it.  Sear the meat on both sides, about 1.5-2 min per side.

4. Transfer the cast iron pan to a pre-heated oven on broil (or hotter if you can get it). Cook until your desired internal temperature...our family likes it medium rare.

5. Transfer to a plate and place on top of a small pat of butter.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth's Chris is known for this wonderful dish.  I searched for the top rated mock recipes and came up with this one from Baked Bree.  Thanks Bree!

My sister was in charge of this - and it was AMAZING!  So delicious!










Dessert:
Lemon Meringue Pie - Not a Ruth's Chris favorite but a request of the birthday girl!

I love the look of the small tarts, but to make sure I get it right, I am following a tried and true recipe.  Definitely going to try the small tarts some time!

The recipe I followed is here...delicious.

Black Cherry Martini

Don't forget the drinks!

Ingredients:
62.5ml (2 1/2 Shots) Vodka
25ml (1 Shot) Chambord
Ice
Cherries
Directions:
1. Place all the ingredients together in a cocktail shaker
2. Shake well with ice for approximately 10 seconds
3. Pour into a martini glass and add cherries to the rim of the glass.


Great dinner wouldn't be the same without great wine and great port.

Happy 29th Birthday Annie - we love you!