October 25, 2014
In the kitchen with Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. ’78, ’82G
By Kristen A. Lainsbury
Providence has its share of high-end restaurants, but a meal at Dominic House may be the hottest ticket in town. Donors have been known to spend $20,000 for a chance to dine with College President Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. ’80 — especially when College Executive Vice President and Treasurer Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. ’78, ’82G is doing the cooking.
Here’s why PC’s Dominican chef extraordinaire has earned a reputation as “the best one-man show in the state.”
About that $20,000 meal
It’s not because of the food. I view these dinners (auctioned off at A Night in Black & White as a fundraiser for the PC Fund) as great social events. People have been so generous, and it’s a fun evening.
But still …
The food is good. I do put a lot of thought into it. I offer three or four choices for each of four courses.
Biggest critic?
Father Shanley is always happy to tell me when something doesn’t work.
Cooking and community
It’s fun to break bread with people. Good food and good wine really bring people together.
On opting out of PC’s “Dominican Iron Chef” cook-off
I don’t cook to compete. I don’t like watching Iron Chef or Chopped. I want to do it at my own pace for a fun night. That being said, I would’ve kicked Father Brophy’s butt. [Father Brophy is Rev. Justin Brophy, O.P., College assistant chaplain and special lecturer in theology. He won the first Iron Chef competition in 2012 and tied for first this year with men’s basketball Head Coach Ed Cooley.]
Working out
I watch the Food Network and get ideas. I exercise at the same time every day, and the Barefoot Contessa is always on.
On the shelf
I have close to 1,000 cookbooks that I’ve accumulated over the years.
It’s the Dominican way
There’s a legend of how St. Dominic, in an early community of Dominicans, ran out of food. Two angels appeared with bread and meat for them. Food is really important to Dominicans. For one thing, it’s a good way to build community and enjoy time with friends.
Carb loading
Pasta is my favorite thing to cook. I make all different kinds. Father Shanley does spaghetti carbonara, and my new favorite is an easy pomodoro.
Specialties of the house
I love to make soups, and I make the best carrot cake in the world.
Tools of the trade
I am addicted to good knives and lots of cooking gadgets. My favorite store is Williams-Sonoma.
