Wine Style: Dão Red Blends
Pairing: Chouriço and Black Beans
Sommelier: Alexandra Allardyce, Manitoba
About the Pairing: Due to higher elevation, red blends from the Dao tend to be lighter bodied and often more elegant than similar blends from its neighbour, the Douro. For this reason, the wines would pair well with this dish; their fruity nature offsets the boldness of the chouriço while the wines’ refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of the black beans and the dish as a whole.
Chouriço and Black Beans
1 white onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes
2 cans black beans, drained, rinsed
1 large can diced tomatoes
1/2 lb chouriço, sliced
¼ cup cilantro, diced
Salt, to taste
Directions: Place olive oil in a pot set over medium-low heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and chilies and sauté until fragrant. Add the chouriço and sauté until browned. Add the beans and tomatoes. Bring to a quick boil, then lower to a simmer. Simmer for 30 minutes. Finish with fresh cilantro.
