LCBO Food & Drink Winter 2018

EDITOR’S NOTES

Once the holidays are over, there is a decidedly slower pace to our remaining winter weekends. The over- whelming desire to stay inside makes them ideal for tackling a project or trying something new, spreading it out over a couple of leisurely days. It also makes staying in your PJs all day much more acceptable because you will have proof of your labours with something to show for it at the end    This issue is full of ideas with just those types of weekend in mind. If you’re keen to be on-trend, how about learning the art of smoking? In Smoke Signals on page 52, Christopher St. Onge presents a soup, a main, two desserts and a cocktail to help get you started. Judging by the number of websites, blogs, Facebook and Instagram posts, sourdough is an ob- session, and one that you can master— check out our “starter to finish” guide on page 77 for expert tips and advice. Prepping any of our Sunday Suppers on page 35 is a rewarding way to spend the day, with everyone pitching in to help and reviving the tradition of technology-free family dinners.    While we’re all enjoying the great indoors, our Canadian athletes are

gearing up for the Winter Olympics. If you’re getting the gang together for a viewing party, our Korean menu on page 46 (complete with cocktails and beer) is the ideal feast to serve, especially if you divide it up and make it a potluck. Of course there are lots of other sports in play at this time of year, from the Super Bowl to Spring Training—with hockey and basketball in between. We’ve got recipes for whatever your viewing pleasure might be in Fan Fare on page 65.    As winter drags on through February, shake o the doldrums by trying something new. If you love gin in the summer, our warm gin cocktails on page 23 are certainly worth a try. Tahini is an ingredient you’ve likely heard and wondered about; sample it in both sweet and savoury recipes starting on page 29. Or consider any of Charlene Rooke’s New Rules of Wine on page 58. They are all about a much more casual, laid-back approach that’s perfect for this time of year.    Whatever project, pastime or experiment you choose, we hope you enjoy the issue and the season. See you in the spring!

PORTRAIT BY JAMES TSE

FOOD & DRI NK WINTER