LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2023

INSIDE SCOOP

GIFTING A Bottle for Every Occasion There are many reasons to celebrate this time of year. Here are some exciting new products matched to every occasion. (For a handful of Father’s Day ideas, see page 24.)

MOTHER’S DAY

UNIVERSITY GRADUATION If your recent graduate is showing a budding interest in wine, start their cellar with Seghesio Zinfandel (VINTAGES 942151, $29.95), a robust red from California that’s sure to improve in 3 to 5 years.

WEDDING SHOWER

COTTAGE HOST GIFT

PRIDE PARTY For a spirit with heart, try Tom of Finland Organic Vodka (LCBO 31555, $62.95). Proceeds go to the Tom of Finland Foundation, which educates the public on the merits of erotic art and promotes more tolerant attitudes toward sexuality.

Upgrade mom’s Margarita with Tequila Elevación 1250 (LCBO 31949, $69.95), a beautiful blanco made by Iliana Partida, one of the few female master distillers in Mexico.

Shaking up a round of the undyingly popular Espresso Martini has been made much easier with a bottle of Bartenders Trading Co Espresso Martini (LCBO 31466, $24.95). Coffee beans not included.

If you want to arrive in style at a friend’s cottage, show up with a mini keg or two of Steam Whistle Pilsner 5-L Keg (LCBO 31551, 5 L, $34.95). The crisp pilsner will go down easy all weekend.

PANTRY RESCUE OPEN SESAME

Since sesame seeds generally come in sizable bags, it can be a struggle to use them up. Fortunately, there are many ways to bring their nutty flavour and crackly texture to a wide range of dishes. Raw, they can be added to the coating mixture for chicken fingers or any kind of cutlet. They’re also excellent as a crust for pan-fried salmon or scallops. Toasted—dry-fry in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring often, for 5 minutes—they’re excellent sprinkled on stir-fries, Asian noodle salads and Middle Eastern dips.

SESAME IMAGE BY ISTOCK.COM/ECOBO

28 FOOD & DRINK EARLY SUMMER 2023