If you read the front inside flap of 2004’s “Star Palate: Celebrity Cookbook for a Cure,” you will discover that cookbook author, Tami Agassi, “was a 30-year-old breast cancer survivor when she dreamed up Star Palate as a way to promote awareness of breast and ovarian cancer and to raise funds to fight for a cure.” Teaming with renowned chef and gifted author Kathy Casey (owner of Kathy Casey Food Studios® – Liquid Kitchen®, as well as Dish D’Lish), Agassi’s idea took root and many celebrities embraced the initiative by submitting stories and recipes. I highlighted some of those celebrity-submitted recipes in this column several years ago, but not for “Classic Pot Roast with Caramelized Onion Gravy,” contributed by Robin Williams’ then personal chef, John Mathies, because Williams was “notorious for not knowing how to cook.” (Perhaps just like the hilariously indomitable, even sexy, kitchen klutz, Euphegenia Doubtfire, from the 1993 movie “Mrs. Doubtfire,” winner of an Oscar for Best Makeup and a Golden Globe award for Williams for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical.) Identified as being among Williams’ favorite dishes, the pot roast dish is sublime, as was Williams’ remarkable life, talent and body of work. It is very hard to accept Williams’ passing, and as we learn more about his private struggles, the depth of his generosity, despite those difficulties, is stunning. Williams’ was a life to celebrate. Celebrate it with a meal he loved, with those you love – and find a reason to smile.
Sue Ade is a syndicated food writer with broad experience and interest in the culinary arts. She has worked and resided in the Lowcountry of South Carolina since 1985 and may be reached at kitchenade@yahoo.com.
