The much-awaited fundraising dinner by Chef Mario Yufera Blanes, masterminded by our industrious star supporter, Yennie Liang, took place last week. Twenty-two lucky guests gathered at Casa Blanes, Chef Mario’s upscale restaurant in central Phnom Penh, and were treated to a gourmet feast titled ‘Flavours of Hope’, which consisted of eight unique, delectable courses.
Among the standout preparations were dry-aged cobia (black kingfish) in a hazelnut sauce with charred radicchio and sweet & sour berries; grilled octopus accented by a foam of Piquillo peppers; and slow-cooked pork jowl glazed in a tamarind reduction, served with a confit of spring onions and raisin cream. Wow! Isn’t your mouth watering?
Several of our kids participated in the event, especially those who had previously taken cooking classes with Chef Mario. Malee, Olivia, Dalin and Micky assisted the chef in the kitchen, while Elizabeth and Daleine helped with table service. Michael and Ilay also attended the fundraiser; they brought ten paintings created by Little Hearts students during their art classes and offered them for sale to the dinner guests. And all ten paintings were sold that very evening!
The fundraiser was thus a huge success and funnelled much-needed funds to Little Hearts’ general budget. A big thank you to Chef Mario and his staff, Yennie, and all the generous, enthusiastic, food-loving guests who attended!
