Simple food jam-packed with flavor and a nice tall glass of a Belgium Abbey-style Ale are what make these blustery days of winter a bit easier to bare. This Chipotle paste is a base for many dishes, including the Chutney listed below. Use it in sauces, stews and soups for a an extra kick of flavor. The Chutney is a great accompaniment for wild game, pork and poultry. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

• Chipotle Paste 1-7 oz can, Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce 4-cloves garlic 1-Tablespoon, Mexican Oregano 2-Tablespoons, Olive Oil (canola if your prefer) Place all ingredients in a food processor and puree. Store in a well sealed container in the refrigerator. It should last for several months. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

• Chipotle Chile Chutney 2 tablespoons, chipotle chile adobados, from chipotle paste recipe 2 Roma tomatoes, peeled and chopped 1 cup, apple cider vinegar 1 cup, brown sugar, firmly packed 1/2 teaspoon, cumin 1/2 teaspoon, allspice 1/2 teaspoon, cinnamon 12 ounces, cranberries, dehydrated 1 medium, onion, thinly sliced 2 medium, orange, zested and juiced salt and pepper, to taste Cook chutney by combining all ingredients in a medium heavy bottom pot. Bring to a boil, turn down heat and simmer uncovered until thick and jam-like, approximately 30-40 minutes. Correct seasonings. Make certain there's a balance between tartness and sweetness. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Make a fresh salad of mixed greens, sliced tomato, and thinly sliced cucumber, tossed with a lovely fresh vinaigrette, then go fire up the grill and cook up some well seasoned pork chops, poor a glass of beer (carbohydrate for your meal, eh?). What beer you ask? Try this one. You can find it at Sunflower Market or Quarters.


Oh yeah and don't forget that Chutney! Living large in the Duke City, baby ... Like the title of the post says, Not Better Than Sex, but its pretty good on a cold blustery New Years Eve.

Cheers!