LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2022

EDITOR’S NOTES

Celebrate the Season!

Whether it’s just one big event or several gatherings spread over the month of December, getting together with family and friends is an irrefutable part of the holiday season. Even if you’re not hosting, you’ll likely be asked to (happily) contribute in some way, and we hope this issue will help guide you down the path for choosing just the right dish or drink to serve or bring, whatever the occasion. First, we turn your attention to “Guest Stars” on page 124. When you are asked to bring something to a party, it’s usually a starter, side or dessert—or a drink. We asked Michelle Rabin to reimagine those courses in unique and flavourful ways that are sure to get you invited back. Focusing solely on side dishes, Irene Matys takes those to impressive new heights, starting on page 53—you’ll never serve microwaved veggies again. If you’d like to host a holiday dinner party but don’t feel confident in your cooking skills, “Hooked on Classics” (page 138) presents six festive dishes that will lay the foundation of

on page 219 has unique ideas for a range of seasonal celebrations. If there is any time of year where you dust off the baking equipment, it’s the holidays—and we say go ahead and indulge! Starting with four new recipes for your baking swaps on page 105, this issue has something for every level of experience and taste preference. There’s a budget-friendly chocolate fudge cake on page 92, an oh-so-trendy Basque Cheesecake flavoured with ginger on page 188, a snowy white take on an Australian Lamington cake full of the flavour of coconut on page 73, and, last but not least, a decadent Chocolate Cognac Tart on page 248 that makes for a grand finale at any feast. On behalf of the Food & Drink team, we wish you a safe, happy and delicious holiday season—please don’t forget to tag us in your celebrations!

your recipe repertoire and are also worthy of seasonal change-ups all year long. Or, better yet, spread the work around with friends to tackle the New Year’s Eve menu on page 146. If you’re not cooking, make an impression by gifting or serving something decidedly festive and special. In “The Sweet Spot” on page 160, James Chatto suggests just the right sweet wine to share with friends whether it be for starters or dessert. A festive cocktail is a great way to greet your guests; you’ll find drinks with the same beloved flavours as holiday treats on page 63, top-shelf cocktails for a touch of decadence on page 191, and five new mocktails starting on page 132 that look as delicious as they taste. For gifts, turn to our “Beginner’s Guide to Scotch” on page 115 for expert advice on how to choose a bottle; and for host gifts, “No Matter the Occasion”

From long-awaited reunions and festive feasts to some quiet time by the fire, each and every holiday moment is worth toasting. If you’re looking for a special gift to celebrate time spent with family and friends, look no further than the LCBO. It’s the destination for gifts that are at the heart of any occasion.

JODY DUNN Editor, LCBO Food & Drink

@lcbofoodanddrink

lcbofoodanddrink

LCBO

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAMES TSE

16 FOOD & DRINK HOLIDAY 2022