LIVING A CREATIVE LIFE
WITH SUZANNE CLARK
It is so easy to transform your average dinner into a gourmet grill experience! Here are some fun tips!
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No smoker, no problem! Place a handful of water soaked wood chips in the center of a sheet of heavy duty foil. Fold over edges to create a package. Gently poke a few holes on top. Place packet on grill with lid closed while preheating. When grill is hot and smoke is present, add your favorite meat or vegetables. When done grilling, just throw the package away!
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Ramp up your favorite store bought barbeque sauce. Simply stir in diced chipotle, fresh garlic and orange zest for a fun twist. To add some oriental flair, add ginger, a dash of sesame oil and hoisin sauce.
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For the perfect steaks, make sure to bring them to room temperature before grilling. Brush with melted Challenge Butter and cover with your favorite spice rub. I also like to season with salt, smoked paprika and ancho chili powder for southwest flavor.
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Keep the heat and mess outside by cooking it all on the grill! Skewer vegetables and semi cooked potatoes slices. In a small bowl, combine equal parts melted Challenge Butter and olive oil. Season with a dash of your favorite herb blend and some salt and pepper. Brush butter mixture on vegetables and place on grill. Grill until golden brown and vegetables are cooked to desired doneness.
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Create the ultimate gourmet experience by creating your own homemade compound butter. Usually served in high end restaurants, these butters are fabulous served on grilled meats and vegetables. Try spreading some onto pieces of crusty bakery bread for an unforgettable dinner. So quick and easy to be gourmet!
Mediterranean Compound Butter
Ingredients
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1 cup of European Style Challenge Butter, softened
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1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
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¼ cup of diced sundried tomatoes
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1 tablespoon of dried basil, or 1/8 cup of fresh diced basil leaves
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½ teaspoon of sea salt
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½ teaspoon of fresh ground pepper
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2 cloves of minced fresh garlic
Directions
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Combine butter and cheese in bowl of a stand mixture, blend on high until smooth. Add remaining ingredients, mix on low speed until combined.
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Remove mixture from bowl and spoon onto parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll tightly into a log, twisting ends to seal. Place into refrigerator until firm, about 2 hours. To use, remove wrap and cut into 2 inch sections. Place on warm steak, chicken or fish so butter will melt. Also delicious on grilled vegetables or as a savory butter for your bread.
Yield: 1 ¾ cup
Sweet and Savory Southwest Style Butter
Ingredients
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1 cup of softened unsalted Challenge Butter
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2 teaspoons of cinnamon
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1 tablespoon of Ancho chili powder
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1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon of sea salt
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1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Directions
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Blend all ingredients in a bowl.
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Remove mixture from bowl and spoon onto parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll tightly into a log, twisting ends to seal. Place into refrigerator until firm, about 2 hours. You can also pack butter into a decorative bowl, refrigerate and serve. This butter is amazing on grilled pork or chicken, sweet potatoes or corn. For a fun family movie night idea, melt this butter and drizzle on popcorn!
Yield: 1 cup