LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2024

INSIDE SCOOP

THE BLUEPRINT The Julep Family

Most commonly associated with the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep is just bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint and lots of crushed ice. It’s the perfect summer sipper, and its basic formula—2 oz spirit, 1/4 oz sweetener and a bouquet of mint—is easy to riff on. Since it involves some technique, it’s best to refer to our Mint Julep recipe (p. 130) before you take on this classic cocktail or any of its siblings.

Marinating 101 To marinate or not to marinate? That is the griller’s question. To help you with the ins and outs, we’ve put together some FAQs. What makes a good marinade? Oil is important for coating the protein and transmitting flavours. Salt or salty condiments like soy sauce will pre-season. Acids bring brightness in small quantities, but too much will “cook” the protein. Anything sweet should be mini mized, to avoid burning. Does marinating tenderize meat? The short answer: not really. Since marinades don’t penetrate too deeply, compounds that tender ize proteins can’t get beyond the surface. One notable exception is Korean-style short ribs, which are thin enough to be tenderized by the enzymes in Asian pears. How long should I marinate? Marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours—any longer and the meat can toughen and dry out. The sweet spot is around 12 hours, though delicate seafood only needs around 2 hours. Can I marinate vegetables? Vegetables are best marinated after grilling, preferably right when they come off the grill and are more open to absorbing flavours.

THYME

MINT

ROSEMARY

TARRAGON

JULEP/ HERB

SWEETENER

SPIRIT

MINT

Bourbon

Simple syrup

THYME

Aged rum

Ginger syrup

TIP For a whiff of smoke and a dramatic presentation, throw hearty herbs like rosemary and thyme on the grill until lightly charred before garnishing your Julep.

ROSEMARY

Scotch

Honey syrup

TARRAGON

Calvados

Maple syrup

Find our recipe for Espresso & Herb Marinade for Beef (above) at LCBO.com/fdsummer24

Find syrup recipes on p. 130.

20 FOOD & DRINK SUMMER 2024