housing works catering
when i first landed in NYC i volunteered over at the housing works bookstore cafe.
it was super fun & i loved their social agenda–helping homeless NYers living with HIV & AIDS.
they’ve expanded their vision since then, expanding both their services & social enterprise. from the fancy pants thrift shop (think celebrity cast offs–gucci, marc jacobs, paul smith) to expanded clients services (healthcare, youth services & support of deaf clients).
but what peaks my interest most–the works–their non-profit catering & events firm. how better to throw a party, than to have yummy food from a caterer who gives back to the community. whether you want a sprawling thanksgiving day feast for your family, or you’re hosting a gala for the ASPCA, let the works tailor a menu highlighting your needs. ABC networks, MAC cosmetics & the United Way already have.
need more coaxing? check out their excellent eggplant caponata recipe!
eggplant caponata
ingredients
- 1/2 cup virgin olive oil
- 1 large spanish onion, chopped in 1/2-inch dice
- 3 tablespoons pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons golden raisins
- 1 tablespoon hot chili flakes
- 2 medium eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (to yield 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon
- 1/4 cup basic tomato sauce, recipe follows
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1 baguette, sliced into 3/4-inch rounds and toasted on grill or in oven
directions
in a large 12 to 14-inch saute pan, over medium heat, heat the olive oil until hot but not smoking. add the onions, pine nuts, raisins and chili flakes and saute for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
add the eggplant, sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa and continue to cook for 5 more minutes. add the thyme, tomato sauce, and balsamic vinegar. bring the mixture to a boil.
lower the heat and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes. remove from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature. serve the caponata spooned on crostini or in middle of table with crostini on side to allow guests to help themselves.
