Friday, May 24, 2019
7 Cocktail Books You Need for Your Home Bar
Unless you’re imbibing at happy hour or drowning your sorrows at the local dive, finding a cocktail for less than a Hamilton has become a virtual unicorn. Then, of course, there’s the exorbitant moustache wax and suspenders tax that’s levied for the privilege of being jammed into a so-trendy-it-hurts “speakeasy.” A hangover is painful enough; there’s no need to further the suffering by waking up to an empty wallet. Well, here’s a simple remedy: Mix things up at home. Thanks to the help of these trusty cocktail guides, you can learn the skills to prepare high quality libations without having to leave the house.
“Meehan’s Bartender Manual” by Jim Meehan, $22.35 on Amazon
Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or experienced mixologist, Jim Meehan’s James Beard Award winning guide to all things booze is a must-own, covering everything from recipes, types of glassware, and assorted tricks of the trade. “Meehan’s Bartender’s Manual” offers a glimpse into the mind of the celebrated Gramercy Tavern and Pegu Club vet along with additional insight into what it takes to be your best behind the bar from over 50 of his colleagues.Buy Now
“The Ultimate Bar Book: The Comprehensive Guide to Over 1,000 Cocktails” by Mittie Hellmich, $12.94 on Amazon
A veritable Encyclopedia Bar-tanica, “The Ultimate Bar Book” certainly lives up to its name. Whether you’re in need in of a recipe for a cocktail classic or a deep cut libation, Millie Hellmich’s essential compendium has got you covered. There’s even a section for hangover remedies which are sure to come in handy if you plan to take full advantage of this expansive guide.Buy Now
“Batch Cocktails: Make-Ahead Pitcher Drinks for Every Occasion” by Maggie Hoffman, $13.51 on Amazon
If you’re planning on hosting a get-together, be it a boozy brunch, casual shindig, or an Ina Garten-approved Hamptons soiree, this book will be a life saver. “Batch Cocktails” includes 65 recipes for large-format, make-ahead mixed drinks (including non-alcoholic options) that are sure to satisfy your guests and, more importantly, save you plenty of time behind the bar.Buy Now
“Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails” by Shannon Mustipher, $19.46 on Amazon
Rum expert Shannon Mustipher is helping usher in a new generation of Traders and Beachcombers with his refreshing take on tiki drinks. Moving beyond popular classics like the Zombie and Pain Killer, Mustipher offers an easy-to-follow guide to preparing unfamiliar—though instantly unforgettable—tropical libations with an emphasis on high quality ingredients.Buy Now
“Liquid Intelligence: The Art and Science of the Perfect Cocktail” by Dave Arnold, $23.79 on Amazon
Dave Arnold, the maverick mixologist behind New York City bar sensations Existing Conditions and Booker & Dax, breaks down the components of the “perfect cocktail,” examining not just what is used but why. Arnold’s culinary expertise comes in handy as he delves into the complexities of something as seemingly basic as ice along with the science of some of the more advanced techniques utilized in new wave cocktail preparation.Buy Now
“The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” by Frank Caiafa, $13.74 on Amazon
Old-timey cocktails continue to be all the rage and this collection of recipes culled from the archives of New York’s famed Waldorf Astoria hotel hearkens back to those legendary pre-Prohibition days. From swizzles and shrubs, absinthe cocktails to whiskey and tansy (prepared with the leaves of the toxic flower), “The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” takes readers on a nostalgic trip back a century, shining a light on throwback adult beverages that go beyond the martini and Manhattan.Buy Now
“Imbibe!” by David Wondrich, $19.95 on Amazon
Chronicling the utterly fascinating and equally bizarre life of trailblazing 19th century bartender Jerry Thomas, David Wondrich offers the perfect blend of cocktail history and recipes. If you have a thirst for knowledge when it comes to the roots of our modern cocktail culture “Imbibe!” offers a thorough education.Buy Now
All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.
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Gifts for the Coffee-Loving Dads in Your Life
Some dads love their coffee almost as much as their children. Whether they’re sipping a morning latte or evening espresso, these guys are never without a cup of joe. In honor of Father’s Day, we pulled together some gifts that appeal to coffee-loving dads everywhere. Whether it’s a high-tech gadget or a pun-filled mug, these items are sure to please the pickiest drinkers of them all.
Bourbon Infused Coffee, $20 at Uncommon Goods
Here’s the perfect gift for the dad who is equally obsessed with booze as they are with coffee. These beans are infused with bourbon so you can have a taste of Kentucky’s best spirit alongside your breakfast.Buy Now
Zulay Milk Frother, $14.99 on Amazon
With this handy milk frother, dad can create the lattes of his dreams. This comes with a lifetime warranty, which your dad is also sure to approve of.Buy Now
Dad Joke Coffee Mug, $15.95 on Amazon
If your dad is running low on jokes, this mug is here to supply him with a lifetime of cheesy puns, including this classic: Why did the coffee file a police report? It got mugged! Just pretend to laugh the next time you pour him a cup.Buy Now
Drift Away Coffee Subscription (price and plans vary)
There are a lot of coffee subscription services on the market, but what we appreciate about Drift Away is that it provides customized orders based on your taste preferences. It’s the perfect way to ensure dad gets his favorite roast without doing any guesswork.Buy Now
Steampunk Coffee Grinder, $65 at Uncommon Goods
This old-timey coffee grinder is the perfect way for dad to crank up his morning routine; highly recommended for steampunk obsessives everywhere.Buy Now
Coffee Bell, $7.98 on Amazon
Depending on your living situation, this could make for a dangerous present. After all, gifting dad a bell that explicitly says “ring for coffee” means he will definitely take advantage of that offer. Better get used to a lot of ding-ding-dinging!Buy Now
French Press Coffee Maker, $25 on Amazon
This shiny, stainless steel French press is a great way to make a strong morning brew and a great entry level model if you think dad’s likely to go back to his cheap drip coffee maker at some point.Buy Now
Espresso Poster, $24 at Pop Chart Lab
This poster is not only aesthetically pleasing, but incredibly practical. It features loads of recipes and ratios for all your favorite coffee drinks. Dad will never forget the difference between an Americano and a flat white again when this work of art is hanging in his office.Buy Now
Mug Warmer, $18.99 on Amazon
Dad can keep his coffee nice and hot, instead of gross and lukewarm, with this hot plate. Now he can continue to sip at a long and leisurely pace without fear of the temperature dropping at all.Buy Now
Coffee Puzzle, $17.94 on Amazon
With 1,000 pieces, this jigsaw puzzle will keep dad busy for days. While he attempts to put it together, he’ll also probably regale you with stories about coffee companies that no longer exist. Those were the good old days.Buy Now
Mini Espresso Maker, $40.49 on Amazon
This mini espresso maker is a portable gift from the gods. Now dad can never go without a well-needed shot of caffeine to help him through the day.Buy Now
Thirsty for more? Check out 12 Coffee Products You Never Knew You Needed, and see CNET’s Best Coffee Grinders.
All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.
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7 Fast and Easy Grilled Vegetable Sides
Beans, coleslaw, and potato salad are the champions of the barbecue side dish world. But if you already have your grill a-blazin’, why not use it to turn out some charred, flavorful vegetable sides too? Half the work will be done for you flavor-wise thanks to the magic of the open flame, so you can stick to basic seasonings like a few herbs or a crumble of feta. These recipes are fast, easy, and can hold their own next to any grilled beef, pork, lamb, or chicken dish.
Of course, grilled veggies can also form the satisfying main course for a vegetarian BBQ (or sidle up to veggie burgers). Basically, these are easy recipes that everyone at your next backyard barbecue will love.
So get some general grilling tips if you’re not already a certified pro, check out our grilling recipes for ideas on what to pair with your sides, and take your pick of the grilled vegetables below.
Oh, and don’t forget about grilled dessert.
1. Grilled Corn with Soy Sauce and Mirin
Grilled corn on the cob is classic, but switch it up a bit with soy and mirin instead of plain old butter and salt. These flavors pair really well with ribs, especially if they have an Asian-inspired sauce on them, but even regular old BBQ sauce will be in harmony. Get our Grilled Corn with Soy Sauce and Mirin recipe.
2. Grilled Padrón Peppers
Eating Spanish padrón peppers is a game of chance: while most of the peppers are fairly mild and sweet, some are super spicy—but you won’t know which ones until you bite into them. The smoky layer of flavor they get from the grill is delicious either way. Get our Grilled Padrón Peppers recipe. (And try our Grilled Shishito Peppers recipe too.)
3. Grilled Eggplant and Red Pepper with Israeli Couscous
Pleasantly chewy Israeli couscous plus sweet, tender, charred pieces of pepper and eggplant, and a dressing with tahini and garlic adds up to a delicious side salad you could happily eat on its own for lunch (but pairs wonderfully with Oregano Grilled Chicken or Lamb Kebabs). Get our Grilled Eggplant and Red Pepper with Israeli Couscous recipe.
4. Grilled Summer Squash with Feta and Mint
Blistered summer squash perked up with salty feta and herbal mint is a simple yet stunning combo. A little olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper is all the dressing it needs. Get our Grilled Summer Squash with Feta and Mint recipe. (For a sweeter spin, try our Grilled Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad recipe too.)
5. Grilled Greek Salad
You needn’t stick to the usual vegetable suspects when it comes to the grill; try grilling romaine too. It’s great as the base of a smoky salad, like this deconstructed Greek salad on a stick (well, everything but the lettuce is on a stick, including the grilled halloumi cheese). Get our Grilled Greek Salad recipe.
6. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Sour Cream and Lime
Smoky grilled sweet potato wedges are a fresh alternative to fries, perfect for all your backyard burgers (and good with grilled fish too, especially salmon). The lime and cilantro-spiked sour cream is a fabulous dipping sauce, but try these with curried ketchup, tzatziki, or whatever goes best with your main course flavors. Get our Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Sour Cream and Lime recipe.
7. Grilled Okra
You may think you don’t like okra, but we suggest trying it grilled before passing final judgment. The smoky char lends delicious flavor, naturally, but the quick, high-heat cooking method also means there’s no slimy texture—just crisp-tender green veg, with a lemony basil dipping sauce on the side (but you could also toss the okra in a little Cajun seasoning instead). Get our Grilled Okra recipe.
See our Ultimate Guide to Grilling & BBQ for more recipes, tips, and tricks.
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Chowhound Recommends: Best BBQ Sauces
Welcome to Chowhound Recommends, Chowhound’s weekly series where our staff shares our favorite food items around a central theme. We kicked off grilling season May 13 with BBQ Week, and we know lots of people are dusting off their grills for the first time this Memorial Day weekend. So this week we’re rounding up our favorite BBQ sauces to accompany whatever you’ve got on the grill.
As food writers, editors, producers, and social media managers, we’re constantly scouring the market for the latest and greatest products. And when we find a product we love, we want to shout it from the rooftops! We’re packaging up our weekly finds and sharing them with you, because we think you’ll love them too. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @Chowhound to catch us talking about our favorite products every week.
Lauren Zaser, Social Media Manager
Product Pick: Tessemae’s BBQ Sauce
I’m always on the hunt for things with no added sugar, and that can be hard when it comes to sugary sweet BBQ sauces. Thankfully this one from Tessemae’s hits all the right spots. It’s free of added sugars, as well as dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan. So it works for anyone doing keto or Whole30 diets. Don’t worry! You still get the sweetness you love from BBQ sauces because they use dates. I’m so excited to put this on ribs all summer long.
Guillermo Riveros, Senior Video Producer
Product Pick: Elvio’s Chimichurri
This week I’m giving you a twofer: a rub and a sauce! Instead of going with the tried-and-true American BBQ-style sauces and spice rubs, try some South American flavors. These are a chimichurri rub and sauce from Elvio’s, an Argentinian family-owned and run business. They make this gem of a sauce, based on their grandfather’s original recipe. The family moved their operation from Buenos Aires to start the business in Los Angeles, and ended up launching the product in Brooklyn. Talk about good sauce travels far! If you’ve never tried it before, chimi packs herbal and acidic flavors with a kick, combining parsley, red pepper, and garlic. And much like American BBQ sauce it goes well with all meats, and is great beyond the grill.
Nathan Carpenter, Associate Video Producer
Product Pick: Traina Foods BBQ Sauce
I love pretty much all barbecue sauce, but what’s really cool about Traina is that their sauces all incorporate sun-dried fruits into their recipes. I’m recommending the tangy sun-dried apricot flavor because it’s delicious, but I also love their sun-dried plum version as well for a bit of a spicy-smoky kick. Put this stuff on pretty much anything you grill and it’s guaranteed to be delicious!
Kristin Cassidy, Director of Special Projects
Product Pick: Primal Kitchen BBQ Sauce
Like Lauren, I’m always looking for products that contain no added sugars—and let’s be real, most BBQ sauces are basically syrup. That’s why I love Primal Kitchen’s line of BBQ sauces—they’re unsweetened, USDA organic, gluten-free, and soy-free, which also makes them Whole30, paleo, and keto-compliant. Since I save on sugar by using an unsweetened sauce, I have no qualms eating a sugary dessert like these no-bake cookies.
All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.
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11 Must-Have Snacks for Your Next Road Trip
So you’ve decided to hop on the road and explore the wonders of ‘Murica by car. Great! Like your vehicle, you’re going to need lots of fuel (in the form of food, of course) to get you from place to place. Since we’re pretty much the Stephen Hawking of snacks here at Chowhound, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite energy-boosting, healthy, and easily transportable nibbles to set you on the right path when it comes to mindful eating. In fact, you can kick those fast food and convenience store pit stops to the curb if you prep and buy the following products in advance. Bon voyage!
Buddha Bowl Popcorn with Coconut Oil, (pack of 12), 33.74 on Amazon
Biena Ranch Chickpea Snacks, $6.58 on Amazon
Mary’s Gone Crackers Pretzels (pack of 2), $17.97
Stevia-Sweetened Lily’s Dark Chocolate with Almonds (pack of 12), $51.99 on Amazon
Duke’s Hot and Spicy Smoked Sausages, $5.48 at Walmart
Seapoint Farms Dry-Roasted Spicy Wasabi Edamame (pack of 12), $13.16 on Amazon
Nuttzo Mixed Nut Butter, $16.19 on Amazon
Rhythm Zesty Nacho Kale Chips (pack of 4), $18.12 on Amazon
That’s It Apple-Strawberry Bar, (pack of 12), $14.99 on Amazon
Quest Protein Crisps, (pack of 8), $19.20 on Walmart
Rind Superfruit Snacks (pack of 3), 17.09 on Amazon
Finally, these all-natural superfruit chews are made from some of our favorites fruits and they don’t waste the rind (hence the name), where you find a lot of that extra nutrient. Perfect to get that glucose up without a lot of cruddy refined or bleached sugar.Buy Now
All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.
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19 Memorial Day Hacks from Your Favorite Famous Chefs
Memorial Day is almost upon us, which means it’s time to start thinking about firing up the grill for the first official cookout of summer. These tips and tricks from some of the nation’s top chefs will save you time and effort, so you can actually enjoy your backyard bash!
1. Crank up the grill.
Preheating the grill is critical to achieving that smoky, savory sear on big chunks of meat. “Always make sure the fire is hot. For gas grills, turn it on about 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook. If you’re using charcoal, light it about 45 minutes ahead of time to let the coals burn down,” says Vanderlei Melchior, head gaucho chef for the upscale Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão.
Related Reading: The Best Gas Grills for 2019
2. Hack your cooler.
“Don’t forget that your cooler can double as an insulated ‘warmer.’ Use it to keep things warm in transit to a cookout,” says Sunny Anderson, celebrity chef, cookbook author, and co-host of “The Kitchen” on Food Network.
Related Reading: CNET’s Picks for the Best Coolers for Summer
3. Form the perfect burger.
If you’re going to serve hamburgers (because let’s face it, they’re pretty much the quintessential Memorial Day grub!), make sure you do it right. “It’s important to know how to choose the right burger for grilling. It should be at least 80/20 lean to fat ratio ground chuck. Too much fat can cause it to shrink,” says Jon Lemon, Bareburger culinary director. “Form into 6-oz. patties and press a ½ inch dimple into the middle of the patty so it keeps its form.”
4. Invest in a meat thermometer.
Using a meat thermometer to ensure your cuts are perfectly cooked doesn’t make you less of a grill master. “Purchase a digital thermometer. You’ll be more confident when grilling and won’t waste any money on over- or under-cooked protein,” says Geoffrey Zakarian, chef and partner of Point Royal at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Fla.
Thermapen Mk4, $99 at ThermoWorks
This digital model is beloved by chefs and home cooks alike.
5. Spray your meat.
That’s right—filling a spray bottle with marinade or loose barbecue sauce is an easy and mess-free way to glaze your meat more evenly, says Michael Schulson, founder and CEO of Schulson Collective restaurant group.
6. Elevate the classics.
There’s nothing wrong with a plain ol’ hot dog with mustard—but putting a new twist on Memorial Day favorites is sure to wow your guests. “Adding unexpected flavors and ingredients always impresses and kicks a dish up a notch,” says Ayesha Curry, chef and cookbook author.
7. Grill in sessions.
“To spend as much time with your guests as you can, get some veggies on the grill before they arrive. I love making grilled veggie salads, which you can build with seasonal ingredients such as corn or zucchini and prepare ahead of time,” says Ryan Farr of San Francisco’s 4505 Burgers and BBQ, named “Hottest Barbecue Joint in America” by Zagat.
8. Let your protein rest.
“One of the top mistakes when grilling any meat or fish is not letting it come to room temperature before starting. This ensures more even cooking and the juiciest results—just don’t leave it out longer than two hours,” says Anderson.
Related Reading: The Best Grilling & BBQ Cookbooks to Buy This Summer
9. Opt for sliders.
Grilling up miniature sliders instead of regular-sized burgers will allow you and your guests to sample all your summery mains and sides. “Sliders are so great because there are simple and easy options you can throw together. For a break from beef, buy a pre-roasted rotisserie chicken, pull apart the meat, toss it with barbecue sauce, and top it with coleslaw or jalapeños,” says Beau Houck, executive chef of Noi Due Carne on New York City’s Upper West Side.
10. Make a shopping list.
Look at your recipes beforehand and shop according to the exact amounts you’ll need—this will prevent you from wasting money and food by overbuying. “Buying pre-packaged perishable items often leads to extra ingredients that wind up going to waste because they don’t keep,” says Stephanie Izard, a Food Network Iron Chef, founder of several Chicago area restaurants, and spokesperson for Morton Salt’s Erase Food Waste campaign.
Related Reading: The Best Grocery Delivery Apps & Services
11. Make a batch of drinks.
Mixing a cocktail or sangria in bulk is a little more fun than a cooler full of beer or wine. “Batching cocktails allows you to spend more time entertaining your guests, but it’s very important to know your proportions before mixing everything together,” says Mo Ghanem, brand manager for the tequila brand Riazul. Multiply the amounts for one drink by the number of guests you expect.
12. Keep the kids happy.
“Create a play area where the little ones can all hang out. Fill it with crafts, toys, and games so they have a dedicated area, just for them,” says Curry. “This is always my go-to so the adults can mingle.”
13. “Grease” the grill with an onion.
That’s right—rubbing half an onion down the length of the grill will prevent meat from sticking, says Adrian Davila of Davila’s BBQ in Seguin, Texas and third-generation pitmaster.
14. Utilize skewers.
Stacking protein and veggies on skewers makes for a fun presentation and easy way to serve a variety of flavors—plus, you don’t have to worry about smaller cuts of meat or vegetables falling through the grill grate. “My Jerk Rubbed Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa is great as a side dish or main, and it comes together so quickly,” says Curry.
BearMoo Kabob Skewers, set of 10 for $18.99 on Amazon
Way better than the wooden skewers you inevitably forget to soak ahead of time.
15. Have vegetarian options.
Don’t forget about your herbivore guests! Be sure to have side dishes or mains that are meat-free. For something besides veggie or pasta salads, Houck suggests grilling up a hearty olive oil-brushed bread and serving with a nice cheese (such as burrata or fresh mozzarella), tomatoes, and fresh basil. Or you can grill pizza.
Sale Alert: Sur la Table’s Marked Down Their Pizza Grill (Plus Lots More BBQ & Grilling Accessories)
16. Do dessert on the grill.
As long as it’s fired up, grill seasonal fruits for an easy dessert. “Pears, peaches, and seasonal fruits actually sweeten up once grilled—just add ice cream!” says Anderson.
17. Safety first!
“Place your grill at least 15 feet away from your house and always have a fire extinguisher on hand,” says Anderson.
18. Pay attention to marbling.
If you want a premium cut of meat, look for consistent marbling, red color, and don’t be afraid to ask your grocery store’s butcher for advice,” says Davila.
Related Reading: The Best Meat Delivery & Butcher Subscription Services
19. Hack your skewers.
To keep your kebabs from rolling and flipping all over the grill—which can lead to uneven cooking—use two skewers per serving, says Schulson. This helps holds them steady.
See our Memorial Day headquarters and our Ultimate Guide to BBQ & Grilling for even more tips, tricks, and recipes.
All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.
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