Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Paseo Cuban Roast Pork and Rosé Nirvana


While our blog is called Pike and Western Cooks, it could also be called Pike and Western Eats, because we engage in the activity of eating even more than the activity of cooking. Take last night for instance. I knew I would be dining alone as my wife had a dinner meeting. While I don't mind whipping up dinner for one, that wasn't in the cards last night. I got off work a little late and there was an NBA Playoff game in progress so there was little time for cooking.

As I drove home with a bottle with a bottle of Château du Rouët Rosé in my bag I was pondering my options. Then, as I exited Highway 99 at Fremont it struck me; Paseo! A Paseo sandwich would be great with my rose. Since there is now one on Shilshole, near my house, I opted to stop by their electric pink outpost. I generally order the basic and stunningly delicious Paseo Pork Sandwich but this evening my eye was drawn to the Cuban Roast version; slow roasted pork shoulder piled high on the bun with ample grilled onions and a healthy dose of jalapeños. In a brief five minutes I was back in my car and speeding home, the aromas driving me crazy.

Upon arrival I popped the cork on the rose and, because it wasn't cold, dropped a couple if ice cubes in it (don't be shocked). I unwrapped the sandwich put it on a plate and headed downstairs to watch the game. Slightly distracted by the game I took my first bite; I was no longer distracted. All my senses were focused on this messy, porky, spicy wonder that that had taken over my senses. A sip of wine was in order as the jalapeños kicked in. Whoa! Had I found a perfect combination? The fresh fruit of the wine countered the spice and pork beautifully, balancing the very rich flavors of the sandwich and refreshing my palate for the next bite. As I looked up, the game was close late in the fourth quarter. I was in heaven.

Michael Teer

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