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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 Kind of a Big Dill!!
The Inspiration - I Love Pickles
I love pickles. Need I say more? And I don't just mean your standard pickled cucumber flavored with dill and garlic. Whether it's an onion, a radish, beets, cauliflower, peppers, green beans, asparagus, and even strawberries. If you can pickle it, I'm probably a fan. So, naturally I needed a spice blend inspired by my favorite tangy snack. The only real surprise is that it wasn't one of the original blends in my lineup.
But good things come to those who wait, and Kind of a Big Dill is worth the wait. A blend of black pepper, brown mustard seed, dill, garlic, coriander, kosher salt, allspice, bay leaf, and California chile, Kind of a Big Dill is, well, kind of a big deal.
Flavor Profile - Kind of a Big Dill
Kind of a Big Dill, not surprisingly, has a bold and multifaceted flavor profile. A harmonious medley of black pepper and brown mustard seed introduces a lively and slightly pungent base, while the aromatic notes of dill and garlic intertwine, adding layers of herbaceous freshness and earthy warmth. Coriander lends a citrusy essence, complemented by the subtle complexity of allspice, which brings hints of both sweet and savory to the blend. The inclusion of bay leaf imparts a mild herbal undertone, while the California chile contributes a mild, smoky heat that gently lingers. The blend is harmonized by the final touch of kosher salt, which enhances and balances the overall taste experience.
Versatility in the Kitchen - Kind of a Big Dill
Wondering how you might use Kind of a Big Dill in your own cooking? Check out these creative ideas:
1. Grilled Meats: Sprinkle Kind of a Big Dill generously over your favorite cuts of beef, chicken, or pork before grilling. The combination of flavors will create a mouthwatering crust that adds depth and excitement to your grilled dishes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss your preferred vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil and a moderate amount of Kind of a Big Dill before roasting. The blend's herbaceous and savory notes will transform simple roasted veggies into a memorable side dish.
3. Homemade Pickles: Add a teaspoon or two of Kind of a Big Dill to your brine mixture when making homemade pickles. The blend's dill, garlic, and mustard seed components will enhance the traditional pickle flavors and infuse your pickles with a unique twist.
4. Sauces and Dressings: Incorporate Kind of a Big Dill into sauces or dressings, like a tangy yogurt-based dip or a vinaigrette. The combination of flavors will elevate the simplest dips and dressings to new heights.
5. Marinades: Create a flavorful marinade for proteins like tofu, tempeh, or even seafood. Combine Kind of a Big Dill with citrus juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey for a marinade that delivers a balanced blend of spices and sweetness.
6. Potato Dishes: Whether it's mashed potatoes, potato wedges, or home fries, Kind of a Big Dill can lend a delightful herbaceous and zesty kick to your potato-based dishes.
7. Pickle Butter: Yep. You read that right. Whether you spread it on a warm dinner roll or melt a dollop on some freshly grilled salmon, Pickle Butter should be in your life. Get the recipe here.
8. Dips: Put a dilly twist on your favorite dip recipes, or try my recipe for Kind of a Big Dill Pickle Dip.
9. Grain Bowls: Add a dash of Kind of a Big Dill to your grain bowls, such as quinoa, rice, or couscous, to infuse them with a burst of aromatic and earthy flavors.
10. Eggs and Omelets: Whether you're making deviled eggs, scrambled eggs or an omelet, a pinch of Kind of a Big Dill can add a surprising twist and depth of flavor to your egg dishes.
11. Popcorn: Sprinkle a small amount of Kind of a Big Dill over freshly popped popcorn for a unique savory snack that's sure to impress.
12. Tuna Salad: Jazz up that boring tuna salad with some Kind of a Big Dill. You'll wonder how you ever ate a tuna sandwich without it.
Feel free to experiment and tailor these suggestions to your taste preferences and the dishes you enjoy creating. Kind of a Big Dill is a versatile blend that can elevate a wide range of culinary creations.
Ready to get your own Kind of a Big Dill? Get it here.
