FOOD FEATURE
Opposites Attract
Dissimilar pairings that produce magnetic, magical results
Written by Shelley Skiles Sawyer/ Photography by Kyle Ripley, Haigwood Studios
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We're all familiar with the age-old notion of "opposites attract" whereby people who are dissimilar, even polar opposites, are romantically drawn to each other, kind of like a magnet. Be it a quest for someone who "completes" us, or simply an appreciation for that exciting "otherness," positive and negative charges can come together to create sparks. Ever mindful of all things epicurean, we were hungry to examine this paradox through a culinary prism. While our findings may not be scientific, we nonetheless deem them scintillating! The world of food is one big delicious decision, an ever-expanding, global sea of ingredients ripe for the picking—and pairing. Fish and chips, rice and beans and peanut butter and jelly require no leap of faith, but that's just the tip of the iceberg of seemingly contrasting treats. We've long ago wrapped our minds (and lips) around some, such as cream cheese and jelly (pepper jelly is da' bomb); apple pie with cheddar cheese; strawberries and balsamic vinegar; and melon cloaked in prosciutto. And perhaps some of us moms out there have, shall we say, “gestated” a craving for pickles and ice cream? Other combinations require more of a mental leap. Chocolate and avocado, fries dipped in a milk shake and a hamburger slathered with peanut butter all get props from adventurous types. A local spot offers vegan pizza for the kiddos: A perfectly reasonable option until they sprinkle with edible glitter! I’ll pass. We embrace the yin and yang of unexpected pairings that pop as well, such as fried chicken with Champagne. Even conceptual opposites such as some of those highlighted below have a place in our hearts and tummies. Edible equals to a sparkly top with jeans, or cowboy boots under that wedding gown? Bring it on! And keep reading… Excerpt is from an article featured in the WINTER issue of Flavors Magazine, subscribe today and don't miss a single issue!
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Here’s her recipe:
Friends Forever Butter Cookies Yield: 30 cookies 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups unsalted butter 1 cup sugar 2 egg yolks 2 teaspoon vanilla extract Friends Forever Sea Salt to taste Cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer. Add egg yolks and vanilla and mix to combine. Gradually add flour and mix until dough forms. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator at least 1 1/2 hours. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Roll chilled dough into walnut-size balls and place 2 inches apart on parchment-lined cookie sheet. Slightly flatten each ball and then make a gentle indention on each one with your thumb. Top with a pinch of Friends Forever Sea Salt and any additional ingredients you desire, such as sprinkles, chopped pecans or quartered brandy-soaked apricots. Bake 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool on cookie sheet. Transfer to wire rack and enjoy. |
