Cooking Elegant But Easy: Louisiana Seafood Casserole

The Cooking Elegant But Easy series started as a video heirloom for the Mehaffey-Engel-Feinbloom families of Louisiana, but after receiving many positive compliments, Chef Feinbloom's sister decided to release the videos to the public. In addition to the Louisiana Seafood Casserole, Chef Feinbloom makes Roasted Tomato Soup, Roasted Cauliflower, Mango Salsa and Pepper Jelly, providing clear directions and sharing several chopping and slicing techniques along the way. Unfortunately, the production never rises above its home video origins. While Feinbloom addresses her audience in a casual, conversational tone, she never quite makes eye contact with the camera and seems a bit uncomfortable, mentioning several times that she's not in her own kitchen or using her own equipment. On top of that, the program could have easily been edited down to 30 minutes had some of the repetitive tasks such as stirring and chopping been abbreviated. A better choice--though more documentary in nature--might be Yum, Yum, Yum!: A Taste of the Cajun and Creole Cooking of Louisiana (VL-5/91). Not recommended. Other tapes in the series include: Osso Bucco with Tuscan Roasted Vegetables, Touched by an Apple and Marinated Salmon Grill. Aud: P. (J. Asala)