Fajita Bar for 170
Jay
08/18/09 		We are catering a wedding reception for 170 people ( 155 adults/ 15 kids) and serving the following. Fajita- Beef, Chicken and Shrimp will be the proteins with onion and mixed peppers. The sides will be Spanish Rice, Refried Beans and a green salad. There will be a mix of younger / older crowd but they will be eaters. I need to know how much of all the proteins to purchase. Help.

thanks

ellen
08/18/09 		I don't do recommendations for pro caterers, as this site is designed primarily for home/ volunteer cooks and I can't be responsible for your business results. For pro help I recommend chef2chef.com and cheftalk.com.

Here is what I would tell a family cook:
1)If you are expecting fairly heavy eaters, count the kids as adults, this pads the count a bit.
2)Plan on an equal weight of veggies to meats, 1/3 onion, 2/3 bell peppers. Use multi color for the prettiest look. The meats must be marinated and the marinade must include lime juice, IMO.
3)Fajita- Beef, Chicken and Shrimp
Unfortunately for the budget, shrimp on a buffet get gobbled at a remarkable rate, and it is very easy to run out. For your chosen combo, allow at least 1 pound peeled headless for each 4 people PLUS 1 pound of raw boneless beef for each 3 people, PLUS 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken for each 5 people (Thighs are juicier and more chicken-y flavored).
4) Sides- for party fajitas, you need GUACAMOLE- at least 1/4 to 1/3 cup per person- or sliced/ diced avocado and pico de gallo.

Jay
08/19/09 		Thank you very much for the reply. We felt honored that you called us "Pro Caterers". We are basically doing this free for a good friend, however have been attempting to start a business. Thanks again