It’s the time of year to indulge in your favorite gut-busting recipes and you may even want to spread the guilt around by bundling some calories into multi-layered mason jar gifts. We asked around the office for some suggestions and Brent offered an enticing “scrambled eggs in a jar” while Paul in the warehouse was adamant that his 50/50 mixture of Cheetos and Funyuns deserved a place in the list. We didn’t think either one would have the sort of widespread appeal we were looking for, and instead turned to the interwebs to dig up some more tasty ideas for decadent mason jar meals and we have pairings covered, too!
Butternut Squash Ginger and Coconut Soup
The folks at La Crema have a serious addiction to great food (and wine!) and their blog routinely features delicious recipes, including this soup that’s perfect for the cold winter months.
Our wine pairing recommendation: A crisp white such as Viognier, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, or an unoaked Chardonnay. You might also find a brut Champagne contrasts perfectly with the rich coconut flavors.
Via La Crema Wines
Shepherd’s Pie in a Jar
This homestyle favorite can be spun in a bunch of directions by adding lamb, peas, carrots, cheese, spices and whatever else floats your boat.
Our wine pairing recommendation: A substantial, but not overwhelmingly big red like a Cotes du Rhone, a Tempranillo Reserva, or Zinfandel should do well paired up against the bolder lamb and beef flavors and spices.
Chili and Cornbread
It doesn’t get much better than enjoying chili and cornbread with your favorite adult beverage at the apres-ski party.
Our wine pairing recommendation: You have a couple options when it comes to pairing up against big and bold chili flavors. Opt for a red with lower tannic profile, like a GSM blend, Zinfandel, or a Tempranillo. If you want to try a something different, a Rose or an off-dry Riesling could work.
Via Nest of Posies
Pizza in a Jar
How can you improve on America’s favorite meal? Stuff it into a jar, that’s how. Just add whatever favorite toppings you have and you’ll end up with this totally unique presentation.
Our wine pairing recommendation: Pizza calls for a lighter bodied, lower-tannin, higher acidity red. Think GSM, Pinot Noir, Montepulciano, or Zinfandel.
Via 1 Fine Cookie
S’Mores In A Jar
What’s a list of mason jar meals without a mason jar dessert? To round out the list we included one for the sweet tooth. Almost everyone can unite around s’mores and this recipe is no exception thanks to the graham cracker crust, homemade cake, and fluffy cream topping.
Our wine pairing recommendation: A seriously sweet chocolate dessert like this begs for an equally substantial dessert wine – Port or Madeira for example.
Via Home Sweet Eats