5 Whisky-Infused Entrees to Impress Your Valentine
You’ve marked it on the calendar, your partner has saved the date and it is soon going to be upon you. February 14th is Valentine’s Day— that one official day dedicated to lovers around the world— and you are planning to treat your sweetheart to a home-cooked meal prepared with the greatest care.
As the famous German philologist Max Muller aptly put it, “A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and man cannot live without love.” So grab this opportunity to show your love how much you cherish them. After all, food is one of life’s most nurturing attributes.
Every detail is important. The lights will be dimmed just low enough, the finest cutlery will be laid out, and strains of soft music will fill the room. But the most important aspect? Why, the food (and drink), of course— each dish in each course, from hors d’oeuvres to dessert. However, we can all agree that the main course takes centre stage. No one knows your partner’s tastes better than you, so when selecting the menu, take your pick from any of these absolutely enticing savoury options. Cater to the hardcore carnivore or the virtuous vegan— the list includes an entree for every preference. What they all have in common? Well, a dash of that golden aphrodisiac we all love— smooth aged whisky. Perfectly fitting for the occasion!
Irish Steak with Irish Whiskey
Nothings beats a fine, juicy cut of steak, cooked to perfection. Take your Irish steak to the next level and make it truly worthy for Valentine’s Day by adding a generous splash of Irish whiskey. For this, you cannot go wrong with Jameson Irish whiskey.
Price: Rs. 2,000-3,000
Availability: Asia, Europe, North America,
Whisky Lentil Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
If either of you have sworn off meat, take heart. This Shepherd’s Pie is not only vegan— packed with a filling, well-seasoned mash of vegetables including potato and carrot, it is spiked with whisky. For a shot of warmth, 100 Pipers whisky is a splendid whisky of choice.
Price: Rs. 1,500-2,000
Availability: Asia, Europe
Garlic Herb Seared Scallops with Whisky Cream
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Make sure to use freshly caught scallops. Then season lightly, marinate and cook them in a flavourful sauce of whisky and cream. Voila! You have a sophisticated dish fit for a king. For the sauce, use a mild whisky like Blenders Pride to avoid overpowering the taste of the scallops.
Price: Rs. 800-1,500
Availability: Asia
Whisky Salmon
No doubt, a rich oily salmon makes for a delicious meal by itself. In honour of the occasion however, a simple way to further elevate its flavours and make it even more special, is to infuse the jus with a couple tablespoons of peaty Scotch whisky. Aberlour whisky works like a charm, its smoky notes balancing the fattiness of the fish in a marvelous marriage of flavours.
Price: Rs. 2,500-4,500
Availability: Europe, Asia
Maple Whisky Chicken with Bacon
Skip this one if the both of you are health junkies because this one is a dish most decadent— succulent chicken wings slathered in the most mouthwatering sauce of maple and whisky, and fried with bacon. Yes, bacon. While this dish is guaranteed to be a hit for both of your taste buds and will transport you to heaven, we advise you not to think about the calories. Meat, sweet, salt and whisky— the ultimate combination to culminate in one dish. Feel free to use the juicier cuts of thigh, and whichever whisky you may prefer. Royal Stag whisky is a simple, hassle-free option..
Price: Rs. 500-1,000
Availability: Asia
Here is wishing you and your loved ones a joyous Valentine’s!
Strathisla – The Home of the Chivas Regal
Said to be the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands, the Strathilsa Distillery was founded in 1786 by George Taylor and Alexander Milne under the name Milltown distillery and is the home of Scotch Whisky. The name was first changed to Strathisla in 1870, then to Milton in 1890 and finally to Strathisla Distillery again in 1951. In 1965, the number of stills at Strathisla was doubled from two to four. These new stills were steam heated from the beginning, but the two old stills weren't until 1992. The spirit isn't filled into casks at the Strathisla distillery directly. Instead, it is first transported to the nearby Glen Keith distillery via pipes to be casked there. Most of the casks are stored elsewhere, but a handful of them are transported back to the Strathisla distillery to mature on site. For this purpose, the distillery still includes two warehouses; one traditional 'dunnage' warehouse and a modern 'racked' variety. The rest of the casks are stored in one of the three bonded warehouses of Chivas Brothers and one of them is located in Keith.Often described as the most picturesque distillery in Scotland, Strathisla proves that beauty really isn't skin deep. Beneath the iconic twin pagodas, the copper stills have a distinctive shape that determines the unique character of every drop of Strathisla Scotch whisky – its signature richness that is fruity and full-bodied.The distillery itself was completed in 1786 (under the name of Milton or Milltown), making it one of the oldest distilleries from the 18th century which still in exists. This beautifully aged distillery has witnessed its fair share of history when Strathisla was blazed in flames in 1876. An explosion in the malt mill during 1879 also was a huge blow to the establishment.The Strathisla Distillery was quickly rebuilt, and this time with its own bottling plant. In 1880, William Longmore retired and his son-in-law John Geddes-Brown took control of the distillery. This resulted in the formation of William Longmore & Co. Ten years later in 1890, the name of the distillery was changed to Milton (referring to the nearby Milton Castle).Strathisla Distillery embraces the Scottish culture in all its produces and makes one feel closer to the true spirit of their rich and smooth Scotch whisky blends.
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