Philly's Own Galloping Gourmet?

We take exception to the term "amateur chef." It seems to imply a lack of competence or professionalism on the part of some cooks, simply because they don't work in restaurants. We were pondering this term as we prepared to profile one of our favorite foodies who could be (in)accurately described as such. Rodney is not paid to cook, but he is no amateur. His braises are legendary. His lemon curd sublime. And while we occasionally rue the fact that he does not showcase his culinary prowess to a wider audience, we relish the fact that this grants us more access to it.

As a frequent, dare we say, constant habitue of Reading Terminal Market, it was only a matter of time before Rodney was corralled into collaborating with us.

We thank him for sharing a chili cocktail recipe that he invented just for Philly Food Lovers:

Hot Mango Mess

2 parts vodka (he recommends Grey Goose; we concur)
5 parts mango juice
1 part lime juice
1 part chili simple syrup (recipe follows)
sweet spice for dusting (recipe follows)

Combine all ingredients in a shaker of ice.  Shake well and pour into martini glass rimmed with sweet spice. 

Chili Simple Syrup
1-2 chilies, seeded (depending on desired heat)
juice of 1/2 lemon
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups water

Bring ingredients to boil in saucepan.  Let boil until reduced to syrupy consistency.

Sweet Spice
1/2 cup raw sugar
dash cayenne pepper
double dash chili powder

Blend all ingredients; pour into dusting tin or flat dish to rim chilled glasses. 

Maybe Rodney will snag a gig as the millennial version of the Galloping Gourmet....Unlike Graham Kerr in the clip below, we're sure he can get his souffle out when the time comes...





And for this week's contest: Come up with the successor's name--what WOULD we call Rodney if he succeeded Graham Kerr (aka The Galloping Gourmet) with his own special brand of food and entertainment?  Post entries on our Facebook page.  The winner will be announced Monday October 25, Rodney will cast the deciding vote, and yes there will be a prize.