Foodie: Pair-Able

Wine, steak and perfect evening weather are literally the best combination ever and last night was no exception. I recently found out about Pair-Able…they are a team of people who put together spice kits that pair perfectly with wine and send you the wine, spices and a recipe card. What an awesome idea! I was so excited when I received my kit to try out which included Outlot Cabernet Sauvignon and an espresso spice to be used on steak. 

The package arrived with everything I needed to make a great dinner and presented beautifully. The instructions are straight forward, so as long as you can follow directions, you can definitely make this. 

The recipe card calls for ribeye steaks but I am a huge filet mignon fan and had been craving one so I went with a filet instead. I roasted my brussel sprouts and we had fresh tomato salad from our garden. The spice kit smelled diving when I opened it. You could smell the espresso and the colors were a gorgeous brown/red. I used the rub on two of the filets because the third was reserved for the toddlers and I wasn’t sure they’d go for it, you know, since they’re toddlers and all! They did both try the brussel sprouts though, so I’d say that’s a win. We also grilled our steaks instead of frying them…check out the grill marks BBQ Master Ted accomplished. 

Let’s break down the spice packet…

1. Brown Sugar
   • Provides notes of molasses when heated, while working double duty to create a caramelized decadent crust that seals in the natural flavors and juices helping to prevent the steak from drying out unexpectedly.
2. Coffee
   • Brings aromas of smoky, nutty, and delicate flowers to the forefront of your pallet. Coffee is used subtly to increases the flavor complexity and maintain the balance with the steak.
3. Ancho Chile Powder
   • Lends just the right amount of weight to counter the sweet molasses and fresh roasted coffee notes. The Ancho Chile powder offers a fruity sweet heat.
     

Now let’s talk wine, Outlot 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley. It was so good! You know I’m a wine lover, so when I tell you it’s a good wine, it most certainly is.  This was an inviting Cab with plenty of complexity and structure. Deep purple in color, the Outlot Cabernet Sauvingon has rich notes filled with black currant, cherry, cola and a hint of licorice. Full bodied with a palate of abundant red cherries, mission fig, pepper, rose, and savory spice to carry through to a medium firm finish. It paired perfectly with the steak and spices. 

This is such a fun package and is only $37. Treat yourself or treat a friend with this awesome kit. You can choose from beef, fish, or poultry or red or white wine. Check out Pair-Able and order your kit today!