Summer BAR B QUE Chile Paste

It’s grilling time! Much of our entertaining this time of year is done behind the  bar b que grill or smoker. I always keep a supply of chile paste on hand, using it as a rub, sauce or part of dressings or spreads.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 ounces dried guajillo or other dark chile
  • ¼ cup chopped garlic
  • ¼ cup soaking water
  • ¼ cup cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  1. Toast the chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes, then soak in hot water for 20 minutes or until soft. Drain, seed and stem, and save ¼ cup soaking liquid.
  2. Put chiles and remaining ingredients in a blender and puree to a smooth paste. Can be refrigerated for the rest of the summer.

On the 4th of July we’ll be serving this with ribs and our just released 2011 Sonoma County Rose of Pinot Noir!