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SoDel Concepts chefs cater Governor’s Delaware Day dinner

December 17, 2016

For the third consecutive year, Plate Catering, a division of Rehoboth Beach-based SoDel Concepts, catered Gov. Jack Markell's Delaware Day dinner at Buena Vista, a historic property in New Castle.

Delaware Day, celebrated on Dec. 7 since 1933, marks the date in 1787 that Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

"We're privileged to provide the meal for Gov. Markell and his guests on what is an important date in Delaware history," said Scott Kammerer, president of SoDel Concepts. "Gov. Markell has been an unwavering supporter of our business during his tenure. In fact, he's been an advocate on behalf of all of the state's small businesses. I'm honored to call him my friend."

While the team of participating SoDel chefs has changed each year, corporate chef Doug Ruley has always led the effort. "Gov. Markell always makes it a point to come into the kitchen and say hello and express his appreciation," Ruley said. "He speaks to every person on our team."

This year's hors d'oeuvres included tuna tartare on a wonton chip with seaweed and a chili aioli, and chickpea hummus on a spiced cracker with olive oil and herbed tomatoes. Once seated, the guests enjoyed kale Caesar salad with Pecorino and croutons. There were two entrées: pan-seared New England cod with lemon beurre blanc and slow-cooked boneless beef short ribs with beef jus. Both were served with Yukon gold potato puree, butternut squash and Brussels sprouts.

Desserts included candied walnut-chocolate brownies, whole wheat cinnamon buns and pumpkin tarts with cranberries.

The setting was as distinctive as the meal. Delaware and U.S. statesman John Middleton Clayton built Buena Vista between 1845 and 1847. T. Coleman du Pont, who spearheaded the construction of the DuPont Highway, later owned the home. His daughter Alice worked on an addition with famed Philadelphia-area architect R. Brognard Okie, recognized for his penchant for Colonial Revival style. The property is now owned by the state.

For more information, go to www.sodelconcepts.com.

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