RPM-
For a "beginner" it looks like you throw one HE*L
of a party! Congratulations.
As you expected, you got some good, sympathetic, and competent advice here. It's that kind of site. Stick around.
As a side note, it looks like you and your girlfriend have a shared, deep and (can I say) passionate interest in cooking. That's a very good way to build a long-lasting relationship. Like, a lifetime.
Best of luck, and please share with us your further culinary adventures in equally vivid detail.
Mike