At Ramscale Studios, overlooking the West Side Highway, the most gorgeous view of Hoboken and Jersey City was the backdrop to one very exciting and eventful evening for Knob Creek enthusiasts. Chef Michael Symon, co-host of ABC’s “The Chew” and best selling book, Carnivore, along with Knob Creek Bourbon, led guests through a night of “nose to tail” pig education and carving demonstration along with amazing Knob Creek inspired cocktails, and upbeat music that really got the crowd going.
To begin this evening, juicy cheeseburger sliders, skirt steak kabobs and spicy chicken kabobs circled the floor while the bartenders whipped up four delicious drinks. The bourbon based cocktails were created by Chef Michael himself and were quite delicious! The four featured were:
1. Summer Spice: With lime juice, orange liqueur, and white crème de cacao; this cocktail was one for the books, and a great summer drink.
2. The Damn Great Drink: Similar to a Manhattan, a strong and sturdy drink that really complimented the pig’s crispy skin!
3. Big and Stout: A heavier cocktail with sweet stout, egg whites, and simple syrup, complimented the dessert portion of the night.
4. Spice of Life: a refreshing, fruitier cocktail with peach nectar, mint, and ginger beer. This one was a fun one!
Carving the succulent pig was the world’s best butcher, New York’s own “meat magician,” Pat LaFrieda, Jr. The pig was perfectly carved, juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The pig skin was crispy and perfectly seasoned; some guests were hesitant to try it, but once the aroma floated through the air and they saw others enjoying this extra treat, doubts soon went away for many. Complimenting the roasted pig was soft cheddar polenta; smooth, creamy, and very comforting. The bacon collard greens were the Chef’s mother’s recipe and they were outstanding!
As if a delicious dinner was not enough, Chef Michael and Knob Creek had to spoil guests some more with a sneak preview of “a special” Bourbon to be released soon, along with two incredible homemade desserts. The “special” Bourbon will be one you will definitely want to try when available; it’s a wonderful treat worth the anticipation. Apple pie was served with perfectly flaky crust and seasoned apples, along with Bourbon grilled pineapples over vanilla ice cream. Be sure to check out Knob Creek’s site for more information on their amazing line of Bourbons and much, much more!
