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August 4, 2006
EMERIL KICKS IT UP A NOTCH -- IN SPACE
Those lucky astronauts on the International Space Station!? Maybe. They’ll finally they’ll have a chance to dine on some delicious real chef-designed food. But we’re not so sure what these freeze-dried disheswill be taste like in space.
This is a first. Restaurateur, celebrity chef and television food show Emeril Lagasse will have some of his recipe creations consumed in space Aug. 10 from approximately 10:30 to 10:50 p.m. Pacific time, Emeril will speak live via satellite on NASA TV with the astronauts while they feast on the fruit of his culinary labors.
“This is a tremendous honor,� Lagasse said: “It is rare to have this kind of opportunity and obviously we hope that our meals make a difference in the quality of life for our men in space.�
More than 18 months ago, discussions began with NASA and its food lab to launch his food into space. Lagasse selected five recipes -- Mardi Gras Jambalaya, Kicked up Mashed Potatoes with Bacon, Green Beans with Garlic, Rice Pudding, and Mixed Fruit -- for the crew to sample.
In addition to Lagasse’s satellite chat with the astronauts, a special October episode of "Emeril Live" will be produced by the Food Network that documents the process of how Emeril’s food was tested, freeze-dried, packed and launched into space. Should be interesting! Interviews with astronauts who have been in space help explain the importance of food and flavor in terms of morale and their overall sense of well-being.
Posted by Natalie Haughton at August 4, 2006 11:54 AM