By Bianca Barr, Penn State
UNIVERSITY PARK – Grilling authority Steven Raichlen of PBS’s “Primal Grill” will host the 19th annual Connoisseur’s Dinner and Auction at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12, at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College. The event, which will benefit WPSU-TV, will feature a five course meal and recipes from around the globe.
Grilling is a cooking technique that is embraced throughout the world. From seafood to kebabs and vegetables to desserts, exotic dishes are created with robust flavors that only the blaze of a fire can enhance.
“Grilling is the world’s most ancient and universal cooking method, but everywhere it’s done differently,” said Raichlen. “My book, ‘Planet Barbecue,’ celebrates the world of barbecue in all its diversity. I firmly believe that no other cooking method is as thrilling, satisfying, or flavor enhancing as grilling and barbecue smoking.”
As the host of PBS’s “Primal Grill” and “Barbeque University” and the author of numerous award-winning cookbooks, Raichlen combines his passion for grilling with his sense of adventure. Through his shows and acclaimed books, Raichlen has educated millions on the styles, techniques and flavors of grilling used throughout the world.
Raichlen’s latest cookbook, “Planet Barbecue,” will be available for purchase at the event and he will be autographing copies for those who are interested. Both a silent and live auction will give guests the opportunity to bid on excursions, art and jewelry, and recreational packages as well as Penn State sports memorabilia.
Reservations for the Connoisseur’s Dinner are $180 per person, a portion of which is a $68 tax-deductible gift to WPSU. To reserve seats or find out more about the event please visit online. For additional information, call 814-863-6635. Reservations must be made by Feb. 1, 2011. Those who are interested should make reservations early, as this event has sold out in the past.
The event is underwritten, in part, by the DelGrosso family, HealthSouth Nittany Valley Rehabilitation Hospital, M&T Bank and W.R. Hickey Beer Distributor.
Penn State Public Broadcasting (PSPB) serves Central Pennsylvania with programming, educational services and community outreach. This public media service produces, acquires, and distributes programs that address local interests and reflect the diverse cultural, political, geographic and demographic characteristics of an audience within central Pennsylvania. For more information, visit online.
