Yuletide Mirepoix

If you’ve ever watched Food Network for any length of time, you’ve probably heard of mirepoix. Onions, carrots, and celery. The trio that’s a staple of French cooks everywhere. But it turns out, there are all kinds of culinary trios. Every region seems to have one. And, long about Christmastime, our family is no exception.

Our holiday three happens to be gingerbread, icing, and candy. Together they combine to create some pretty cute little houses.

the crew creating

maddy finally gets to be a part of the action

dueling chefs

sampling some yuletide mirepoix

Each chef has there own personal style. Gather four culinary creators together, hand them the same ingredients and, chances are, you’ll end up with four completely different interpretations of those ingredients. Here’s what each of our little chefs did with their yuletide mirepoix:

how lij did it

careful construction is key

as is sampling the ingredients… because you have to know what you’re working with

and don’t forget, presentation is everything!

how dyl did it

concentration and a steady hand

never apologize… random is just fine

it isn’t good unless it makes you lick your lips

don’t be ashamed to show your enthusiasm for you own work

how cole did it

plan it out first

then throw the plan out the window and just go for it

sit back and appreciate your creation

because culinary art is ephemeral, after all

how mad did it

get a feel for your ingredients

taste and texture are important

don’t be afraid to ask for help

although there are probably some things you can handle all by yourself