About the Recipe
This dip is perfect for cozy gatherings from late summer to winter. It works wonderfully as a family-style dish or as part of a potluck spread. Serve with fresh vegetables, pre-cooked meats, and seafood to round out the meal, or just enjoy it alongside a salad.
Dip Tip:
This dip also doubles as a great fondue.
Ingredients
BC Dairy Dip:
About BC Dairy:
BC Dairy is dedicated to supporting local dairy farmers and promoting the high-quality milk, cheese, and other dairy products produced right here in British Columbia. Every time you choose locally made dairy, you’re helping to sustain family-run farms that prioritize animal care, environmental sustainability, and the production of nutritious, delicious foods that nourish our communities.
- 500 ml whole BC milk Â
- ½ cup BC butter Â
- ½ cup all-purpose flour Â
- 250 ml of Nelson Brewing beer (sip the rest while cooking!)Â Â
- 250 ml BC cream cheese Â
- 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese Â
- 1 tbsp kosher salt Â
- 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper Â
- 1 tsp hot sauce (like Tabasco)Â Â
BC Pear, Apple, and Cranberry Jam:
Choosing BC tree fruit isn't just about enjoying crisp, flavorful bites; it's a commitment to quality, sustainability, and supporting local communities. Buying BC fruit directly contributes to the livelihoods of local farmers and the vibrancy of regional economies. British Columbia's tree fruit industry serves as a vital pillar of food security for both the province and the nation. BC ensures a stable and locally sourced supply of nutritious (and delicious) produce. This not only reduces reliance on distant imports but also bolsters the resilience of the regional food system. The industry plays a crucial role in providing accessible and reliable nourishment to communities across BC and contributing to the broader food security of the country.
Ingredients:
- 3 large BC apples, cored, seeds removed, diced Â
- 3 large ripe BC pears, cored, seeds removed, diced Â
- 1 cup dried cranberries Â
- ½ cup maple syrup Â
- â…› cup apple cider vinegar Â
- ½ tsp kosher salt Â
Sourdough Toasts:
1 baguette
Optional Add-ons: To make the dish heartier, consider adding pan-seared scallops, roasted shrimp, grilled steak slices, roasted vegetables like cauliflower, or caramelized broccoli.
Beer Pairing from Nelson Brewing:
Loki Lager and Valhalla Hazy Pale Ale
Nelson Brewing Co., founded in the vibrant city of Nelson, BC, is known for its high-quality craft beers that reflect the spirit of the Kootenay region. They focus on brewing with organic ingredients and are proudly owned by former NHL player Matt Walker. Their beers, including the award-winning Loki Lager and Valhalla Hazy Pale Ale, offer a perfect balance of tradition and innovation, crafted to satisfy both casual drinkers and beer aficionados alike.
Preparation
BC Dairy Dip:
Method:
1. In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling.
2. Stir in the flour, cooking until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the beer, stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Slowly add the milk, stirring continuously.
5. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth.
6. Stir in the grated cheddar until melted.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Set aside.
BC Pear, Apple, and Cranberry Jam:
Method:
1. In a medium pot with a lid, combine the apples, pears, cranberries, maple syrup, vinegar, and salt.
2. Cover and simmer over low-medium heat for about 25 minutes until the fruit is tender.
3. Let it cool slightly, keeping the jam chunky.
Sourdough Toasts:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Â
2. Slice sourdough baguette into ¼-inch slices. Â
3. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Â
4. Bake until just golden brown but not too crunchy.
Serving Instructions:
- Serve the dip in a warmed cast-iron or baking dish.
- Optional: Bake the dip until bubbly at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Â
- Pair with the warm pear and apple jam, sliced fresh fruit, and sourdough toasts.
Beer Notes from Nelson Brewing:
Loki Lager: ABV 4.7%Â Â
Tasting Notes: Crisp, clean, with a fresh grain aroma and a light bitterness. A refreshing lager that's perfect for pairing with the rich and creamy dip.
Valhalla Hazy Pale Ale: ABV: 5.2%Â Â
Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit and citrus aromas, balanced with a smooth, dry finish. This well-balanced ale complements the tangy and sharp flavours of the dip and jam.