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Welcome to the next installment of my Meet the Spice Blend series, where I'm sharing the inspiration for, back stories of, and uses for my ever-expanding collection of small batch, handcrafted spice blends. Next up, let's meet Dark Roast Dreams (formerly called Coffee-Chile Rub)!!
The Inspiration and Flavor Profile - Dark Roast Dreams
The inspiration for this spice blend came from my love of all things coffee and chiles. I wanted to create a blend that would be both flavorful and versatile, and that would work well with a variety of dishes. The combination of dark roast coffee, pasilla chile powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, cumin, and kosher salt creates a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The deep, rich notes of the dark roast coffee intertwine with the earthy and smoky undertones of the pasilla chile powder and smoked paprika, creating a harmonious balance. The touch of sweetness from the brown sugar adds a delightful contrast, while the cumin provides a warm, aromatic essence. Finally, the kosher salt ties it all together, enhancing each ingredient's natural essence. This spice blend can be used on a variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, nuts, and even in chocolate truffles. It is also a great addition to marinades, rubs, and sauces.
Versatility in the Kitchen - How to Use Dark Roast Dreams
Dark Roast Dreams can be used in various ways to enhance the taste of your dishes. Here are some suggestions:
Steak and other grilled or smoked beef: Generously coat your favorite cut of beef with Dark Roast Dreams, allowing it to marinate for a few hours or overnight before grilling or smoking.
Burgers: Mix some Dark Roast Dreams into your homemade burger patties for a gourmet twist on Burger Night.
Smoky roasted vegetables: Toss a medley of vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes with olive oil and Dark Roast Dreams. Roast them in the oven until tender and slightly charred, bringing out the smoky and robust flavors.
Grilled or roasted chicken or pork: Mix Dark Roast Dreams with a bit of olive oil to create a paste, then rub it onto chicken or pork before grilling or roasting. The blend will add depth and complexity to the meat, complemented by a subtle hint of coffee.
Coffee-infused barbecue sauce: Add a tablespoon or two of Dark Roast Dreams to your homemade barbecue sauce for a delightful twist. The smoky and spicy flavors of the blend will create a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs well with grilled meats.
Savory roasted nuts: Toss a mixture of nuts, such as almonds, pecans, and cashews, with melted butter or olive oil and Dark Roast Dreams. Roast them in the oven until golden and fragrant for a delicious and addictive snack with a unique savory kick.
Chocolate truffles: Combine melted dark chocolate with a pinch of Dark Roast Dreams, then shape the mixture into truffles. Roll them in cocoa powder or crushed nuts for an indulgent treat with a hint of warmth and complexity.
Chili: Level up your favorite chili recipe with some Dark Roast Dreams. Don't have a favorite chili recipe? Try my Smoky Beef, Bacon & Three-Bean Chili.
Remember, these are just a few examples to get you started. Feel free to experiment and explore various dishes to fully unleash the potential of this dreamy spice blend.
Ready to get your own Dark Roast Dreams? Get it here.
