LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2022

INSIDE SCOOP

Trendspotting

A roundup of what we’re into this season.

SOME LIKE IT HOT

French Immersion

The trendiest condiment is buzzworthy in more ways than one. Hot honey is bringing its spicy-sweet heat to everything from waffles to fried chicken sandwiches. Our favourite is from Toronto-based company Zing, who partnered with local chef Christine Flynn to make their unforgettable Buzz condiment. It’s medium-hot with a dose of vinegar to balance the sweetness and improve the drizzle factor. Taking it to the next level are makrut lime leaves and lemongrass, which add floral and citrusy notes. It’s divine on grilled chicken wings, pepperoni pizza or sliced pineapple.

Whether it’s Ricard Pastis (LCBO 15693, $30.65) or Pernod (LCBO 6049, $30.70), pastis is a way of life in the South of France. If you’re new to this anise-flavoured spirit (think sambuca, but stronger and less sweet), here are three ways to enjoy it. FOR THE TRADITIONALIST Pour 1 oz pastis in a glass then add 5 oz cold water from a pitcher. The drink will magically turn cloudy, thanks to an essential oil in anise. Add ice and Cin-cin ! FOR A TWIST For a twist on the classic French Canarie, mix 1 oz pastis with 5 oz chilled lemonade in a highball filled with ice. Garnish with mint. A VINTAGE TOUCH Many vintage cocktails, including the Sazerac, call for the glass to be rinsed with absinthe. Since pastis has a similar wallop of anise, it’s a fine substitute.

Spread the News

Butter terrines are poised to be the next big thing on social media, and the best part is you don’t need a recipe. Simply mix equal amounts of softened salted butter with different flavourings and layer in a mini loaf pan or small rectangular container lined with plastic wrap. Natural “dyes” include turmeric, orange zest, tomato paste, smoked paprika and chopped herbs. Chill until firm, and use for bread, grilled fish or the first corn of the season.

Zing Buzz Hot Honey Condiment, 250 g, $14.99, cookwithzing.com

TOOL TIME

@joseph.shawana Who to Follow

Need a gift for the grill- meister who has everything? Check out this clever multi-tool from Roxon—it’s like a Swiss Army knife for backyard chefs. There’s a spatula and a fork, which combine to make tongs. A sharp knife unfolds to check on doneness. A corkscrew and bottle opener keep the beverages flowing. It all folds into a compact unit to take camping or on cookouts.

To learn more about Canada’s Indigenous food culture, give Joseph Shawana a follow. Both a prof at Centennial College and the chair of Indigenous Culinary of Associated Nations (indigenousculinary.ca), the award

winning chef is dedicated to preserving the culinary heritage of Canada’s First Nations. Expect childhood stories, stunning plates and posts on pop-up dinners.

Roxon 6-in-1 BBQ Multi Tool Grill Tool Set, $29.99, amazon.ca

36 FOOD & DRINK EARLY SUMMER 2022