Amy & Aron's

For Valentine's Day lets kick up our heels and celebrate. It is our anniversary week after all.  We had the opportunity to work with David Nicholson on a review of their David Nicholson Reserve. Do you know how many things that you can do with such an amazing bourbon? I mean other than pour over ice :) There are so many delicious recipes from desserts to entrees.

They shared one with me that is perfect for a holiday treat. Breaking Bread XO Brynn posted Bourbon Caramel Dark Chocolate Truffles. Being in festive food mood, I want to share several other bourbon-related dishes that are sure to get your taste bro's chanting.

 Aron and I had a long discussion on the proper way to order food. At what point is it safe to mention, bring me a double? Well, I have only been with Aron for 10 years and spent most of my 20's out socializing. For me, at any point during a meal, it's ok to order a cocktail. For Aron, the best time is before food while the chit chatting is going on or after the meal in a different location. After that discussion, I think we both may be right :)

Appetizers are always a great way to start a meal. Since we are on the topic of bourbon and all it's greatness, what about bourbon wings? Fry or bake those little wings and drumettes the way you like them and make up your favorite glaze. It's so easy to experiment with the flavors you love. A honey bourbon glaze has a sweet and sticky kick.




The appetizer is done. Moving on to the entree. There are so many great dishes that are bourbon infused. I found an awesome recipe for a steak that has a bourbon marinade that looks delicious. The best part, even I can cook it. We all know I prepare meals better with a phone book than a cookbook but, this year, I want to make it happen on my own. I got so much new cookware this year for the holidays, I have been warming up to them more and more. We are almost out of January and all of the pans are still usable!



Desserts, oh yes. Save room for the delectable. Chocolate goes with bourbon so well. The flavors compliment each other so well. From spiked hot chocolate to chocolate caramel bourbon truffles, the pair is a perfect one.



 David Nicholson Reserve is the star in the Bourbon Caramel Dark Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients:

• 9 oz. 60% dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (or coconut milk for dairy free)
• 2 tbsp bourbon

For Caramel Swirl:

•  1/2 cup sugar
• 1/8 cup water
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tbsp butter

For Coating:

• Cacao powder
• Sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar and water for caramel in a small saucepan on med. Heat for 10 min (1/4 cup sugar + 1/8 cup water)
2. Add 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
3. Simmer 2 min, then add butter and remove caramel from heat
4. Chop chocolate into small bits
5. In a small saucepan heat 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream to simmer, remove from heat, pour over chopped chocolate in heat safe bowl
6. Stir until smooth
7. You may use the microwave in 15-second increments for additional melting help if necessary
8. Let cool for 2 min and pour in bourbon, mix
9. Swirl in about 2/3 of the caramel, marble style.
10. Cover and place in fridge to chill for 1 hr
11. Scoop out chocolate using a melon baller, roll gently between hands until round
12. Coat in cacao or sprinkles by rolling ball on plate