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Contemporary Twist on a Traditional Irish Menu
(ARA) - If
Irish cooking brings to mind the standard "meat and potatoes" of
old, one chef's innovative Irish dish will transform that
perception. American Lamb Marinated in Guinness and Honey is the
gourmet Irish creation of Chef Jennifer Jasinski, executive chef
and owner of the popular Rioja restaurant in Denver and protégé
of the renowned Wolfgang Puck.
"When I created this dish, I wanted to honor Irish tradition and
ingredients like lamb, honey, onions, potatoes and, of course,
great beer," says Chef Jasinski. "The result is a contemporary
twist on traditional Irish cooking."
In making this succulent dish at home, Chef Jasinski suggests
using quality local ingredients, which she cites as a trend many
American chefs are moving toward, to guarantee the freshest
taste.
"While ethnic cuisines are popular here in the U.S., we have
wonderful domestic products available to us, such as the fresh
American Lamb I recommend in my Irish dish," says Chef Jasinski.
"Its sweet, mild flavor provides the perfect accompaniment to
the robust flavors of the Guinness and herbs."
When shopping for this recipe's star protein, American Lamb
loin, head to the local butcher and pre-order whenever possible.
Look for meat with a soft pink to red coloring with white
marbling. Lamb loin is a mouth-watering tender and flavorful cut
that is superb grilled, oven-broiled or pan roasted.
While some may choose Guinness to accompany their meal, those
who prefer wine should look no further than a California
zinfandel to pair with this hearty dish, suggests Chef Jasinski.
Peppery zinfandels pair especially well with dishes rich in
flavor, like the honey and fresh thyme found in this lamb dish.
Lamb has a rich history in Irish cooking and family-style
celebrations. This recipe uses the best of traditional
ingredients to create a gourmet ensemble that is a surefire
crowd-pleaser for all types of social gatherings.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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