LCBO Food & Drink Winter 2017

EDITOR’S NOTES

Entertaining in the winter (save for a few brave souls) is a decid- edly indoor a air. With it getting dark so early, it’s easy to lose track of time and evenings can stretch on as we stay all warm and cozy inside. Whether it be a dinner party, a movie marathon, a football or hockey game or an awards-show get-together, hav- ing lower-alcohol and alcohol-free options on hand for guests is just good hosting.    In “Bright Lites” on page 62, we asked our experts to recommend lower-alcohol wines, beers and cocktails that are ideally suited for longer evenings—definitely worth a try as some are lighter on calories too, helping you keep those New Year’s resolutions! You’ll also want to be sure to eat during the evening and that is where “Winter Wining & Din- ing” on page 50 will come in handy. There you will find three comfort food choices—warming dishes of simmer- ing greatness, ready whenever you are—paired with winter wine styles that are perfect complements.    Speaking of comfort food, “hearty” is the order of the day when it’s cold outside, and there’s plenty of that

on o er in this issue. “Fresh Roots” on page 33 presents new takes on coleslaw that feature root vegetables— perfect to make ahead and stash in the fridge to serve with whatever protein you choose. A bowl of soup is always welcome in winter and our grain-based soups, starting on page 81, are meals in themselves, bursting with international flavours. Pasta is the comfort food craving that has no season, but if you’re trying to eat better, our vegetable twists on classic pasta dishes (page 69) are a step in that direction.    On the drinks side, darker beers feel right at this time of year, but we don’t want you to feel uneasy about trying them. “The Dark Side of Beer” on page 75 introduces us to three dark styles with tips on what to expect and how to serve, plus a recipe created specifically to be o ered alongside each style. On the flip side, fresh cit- rus is in season right now and whether you prefer a hot or cold cocktail, our drinks on page 25 take full advantage of what’s in stores.    So curl up and settle in; enjoy the season and the issue… See you in the spring!

PORTRAIT BY JAMES TSE

IN HONOUR OF CANADA’S 150 TH birthday celebrations this year, we are doing a little flag-waving by calling out the Canadian products that we feature in each issue all throughout 2017. Look for the symbol above on images and in text, and show your pride by supporting these home-grown products! Also, be sure to check out Trendspotting on page 17 for a little taste of Canadiana to kick o the year.

FOOD & DRI NK WINTER