Less is More
Inspired by a conversation I had with author Dina Rose PhD, I really do think that less can be more. Which would you rather have; a 12 oz. fairly good steak for $18.00, or an 8 oz. really good steak for $18.00? By enjoying the quality of your meal, it is likely that you will take more time and care preparing, serving and eating your meal. It’s likely that you will be more relaxed and you will eat more slowly. It’s also likely that you will sip and savor your wine over a longer period of time while having conversation with your friends and family. Less is more.
The Wine
Bolgheri Rosso is from the same region as world famous wines, Ornellaia and Sassicaia, but much, much less expensive, but delivers like it wasn’t. This Super Tuscan is made from a classic Bordeaux-style blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 20% Syrah. Deep ruby red in color, this wine has an enticing bouquet with aromas of small dark stone fruits and soft spice. Medium/full in body, this wine is smooth, with silky tannins and flavors of black cherry, dark plum and a touch of espresso that leads to an elegant lingering finish. This wine is the perfect partner for a variety of dishes, and it pairs well with the flank steak.
The Pairing
Grilled Flank Steak with Black Beans Corn and Tomatoes
I have been following and trying Chef Gina Homolka’s recipes from skinnytaste.com for about a year and enjoy this really tasty, healthy dish that’s a good example of less is more.
What you will need:
1 1/2 lb flank steak (prime grass feed), 1/2 tsp cumin, 2 garlic cloves crushed, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper to taste.
For the black bean, corn and tomatoes:
3 tbsp red onion minced, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 cup, fresh squeezed lime juice, 2 medium vine ripe tomatoes diced, 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cups fresh corn kernels, frozen if you have to, 2 tbsp finely minced cilantro, kosher salt and fresh pepper to taste
How to make it:
Combine red onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper in a medium bowl and set aside a few minutes. Add tomatoes, black beans, corn, and cilantro and set aside. Preheat a lightly greased grill and cook steak on high for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium. Let the meat rest about 5 minutes before slicing. Slice the beef into thin slices across the grain, place on a platter topped with the corn, black bean, tomato salad.
I serve this with toasted semolina bread and arugula drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.
Cheers, The Wine Guys