Talk with Your Mouth Full

Book excerpt: The original winners of The Next Food Network Star bring their signature style of casual entertaining to their first book. These Hearty Boys don't solve literary mysteries, but they sure are great at demystifying party-throwing. Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh are two guys who never attended culinary school yet build one of Chicago's most popular catering businesses, and now run the popular restaurant Hearty. Their self-deprecating, natural approach to cooking, which made them such a hit on the Food Network, comes through on every page. Packed with exciting but accessible recipes, clever how-to tips, and a gaggle of tales from the catering trenches, this is a truly entertaining guide to the art of entertaining. Featured recipes include hors d'oeuvres, starters, main dishes, side dishes, desserts, and libations. Nibble on Gorgonzola, Fig, and Pecan Cheese Terrine, or pass Seared Ahi on Wonton Crisps. Or sit down to enjoy Balsamic Mushroom Chicken and Oven-roasted Root Veggies, and finish the meal with Chocolate Cream Cheese Cupcakes. Talk with Your Mouth Full offers help on everything from chilling wine to decorating a buffet table, as well as complete menus and planning advice. It's the ultimate guide to enjoying good food and good company.