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Chef’s Spotlight — Bernard Russ

Greeting Employees with Culinary Comfort

Bernard Russ
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
Kansas City, MO

Creativity in the Kitchen
At a company where the focus is on making others feel remembered, cherished and happy, it is Bernard Russ’ job to make sure that Hallmark, Inc. employees feel the same level of appreciation when it comes to the food they are eating. As a Culinary Assistant for the Kansas City, MO-based company, Russ regularly looks for new dishes that appeal to the 3,700 employees who pass through the corporate headquarter dining rooms each day.

Two Hallmarks of Success:
Dill and Sour Cream Potato Gratin & Southwest Chili Potato Bake
One of Chef Russ’ creations is the Dill and Sour Cream Potato Gratin, made with Basic American Foods Golden Grill Russet^™ Premium Hashbrown Potatoes. “They hold better and have more texture than sliced potatoes,” he notes.  Layered with fresh dill, sour cream and cheese, then baked until golden brown, Russ cuts the potatoes into triangles and often serves it with salmon. Russ likes the addition of dill because it pairs well with both fish and potatoes, and adds attractive flecks of color.  Another cold weather warm-up now appearing on his menu at Hallmark is Southwest Chili Potato Bake. This dish is also made with Golden Grill Russet^™ Premium Hashbrown Potatoes, and is combined with Basic American Foods Quick-Start^® Home Style Chili to make a zesty casserole.
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Comfortable Options
During the winter months, Russ uses several products from Basic American Foods to create his comfort food recipes. He also enjoys taking his creations to a new platform. For example, although the Southwest Chili Potato Bake is often served as a side dish, Russ can easily make it a special entrée by adding cooked ground beef to the mix. It’s this kind of culinary creativity his Hallmark diners greet with enthusiasm!