Geo Lanez, MBA, CEC, Executive Chef, The Patterson Club in Fairfield, Conn., was among the presenters at the inaugural PlateCraft event in November 2023, known for its focus on advanced culinary techniques.
In his presentation, Lanez shared secrets of advanced and intricate garnish techniques that have wowed at global culinary competitions. Drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences, he guided attendees through his process of transforming garnishes from mere decoration into essential components of flavor and composition. He explored how, why, and when certain applications work, while encouraging attendees to think outside the box with their finishing touches, break paradigms, and push the skill of club chefs to the next level.
Following the event, we asked Lanez to share a dish for C+RC’s annual Cookbook that best represents the spirit of the event and the skills shared among the intimate group of club culinarian attendees and speakers.
Club + Resort Chef (C+RC): In what ways is this dish inspired by or representative of PlateCraft?
Geo Lanez (GL): This dish draws inspiration from my presentation on garnishes during PlateCraft. The approach, the meticulous thinking process, and the execution were all undertaken to enhance the experience for chefs attending the presentation.
C+RC: Which specific skills or techniques make this dish unique?
GL: [It] stands out due to its stencil design, use of molds, incorporation of various textures and flavor profiles, and the transformation of a simple salmon dish into a competition-worthy creation.
C+RC: How would you describe the flavors and the presentation of this dish?
GL: The dish achieves a harmonious balance of flavors, ranging from the tender texture of the salmon to the creaminess of the crème fraîche mousse, the acidity of the pickled cucumber, and the sweetness of the citrus terrine. The stencil not only elevates the presentation but also imparts an herbaceous flavor, contributing to the overall excellence of the dish.
C+RC: Why does this particular dish stand out for you?
GL: This dish is a culmination of my learning experiences and reflects the evolving culinary trends. Its elegance is apparent, and it successfully incorporates essential cooking techniques, making it a standout creation.
