Posted at 11:00 a.m.
Frozen pleasures… and tastes!
To create his blends of flavors, master ice cream maker Mario Gauthier, trained in the art of gelato at the North Carolina campus of the University of gelato carpiciani, is inspired by the science of aromatic molecules developed by François Chartier. He thus creates mixtures as surprising as they are delicious, such as avocado-basil or lychee-coconut-raspberry, all from fresh ingredients and homemade preparations, such as salted caramel or vegan brownies. Well known to residents of Old Lachine, he opened the first branch of Quai des glaces there in 2015 and has just inaugurated a counter at the CF Marché des Promenades, in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville. On site or online, you can order its quality products, all delicious, from full fruit sorbet to gelato, with several vegan options. Our favourite: the irresistible iced Keys lime pie!
No artificial flavors
$12.75 for a 530 ml jar, $25 for the frozen pie, products available online or in stores, delivery possible with Skip the Dishes
Pista Iced Coffee
PHOTO PROVIDED BY PISTA
The new cold brew iced coffee by Pista
We are starting to be spoiled for choice when it comes to canned iced coffee. That of Pista particularly pleases us thanks to its balance. It has no unpleasant bitterness, just enough acidity and a slightly fruity taste. We would go so far as to say that it is refreshing… for coffee! As it tends towards citrus fruits, in its aromatic profile, it would be “cut” well with lemonade, to refresh even more. It is even possible to concoct a host of cocktails with a few milliliters of frozen Pista, as we have been shown by bartenders who were experimenting with the product when it launched in June. A caffeinated negroni? Why not ! A 250ml can contains no less than 150mg of caffeine, which is slightly more than the equivalent of a “normal” filter. To be consumed in moderation, then!
$17.95 for 4 cans of 250 ml, available online or in store
smoke show
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SMOKE SHOW
Some products offered by Smoke Show
In 2015, Smoke Show’s first product was launched in Montreal, Hot Jalapeño Sauce. An idea of brothers Dave and Nick Rose created from peppers put in a smokehouse. Quickly, this sauce was a great success. Since then, the range has expanded to around ten products, including spice blends, all made here from mostly local ingredients, and cooked in small batches, for maximum freshness. Our favorite is hands down the Jalapeño Aioli, a delicious zesty sauce with a slightly smoky flavor that can amp up a burger, serve as a dip or replace mayonnaise in a salad.
$12 for 250 ml, available online and at points of sale
Spicy crush
PHOTO STEPH POLIC, PROVIDED BY KANEL
The Endless Summer Box
Spice blends don’t change the world, except… those from the Montreal company Kanel could well revolutionize your meals, nothing less. As soon as the five blends that make up the Endless Summer box were opened, we were charmed by the powerful gourmet aromas of the products. We all immediately wanted to try them. While the Butcher’s Block and Organic Louisiana Fried Chicken are more classic blends, the Caramelized Coffee Rub surprises with its subtle taste of a dark drink that soaks up grilled meats. Special mention also for fresh salted pepper, surprising peppercorns that are eaten whole to add a touch of spice to dishes. In fact, it would be a mistake to limit the use of these high-end “perfect for grilling” spice blends to meats cooked on the barbecue. These also go very well with vegetables, tofu or salads. During a large family reunion at the chalet, a guest inspired by the products even went so far as to sprinkle the mixtures on slices of watermelon. Verdict of all the guests? A true delight !
Price: $59 for the Endless Summer box set, available online and at select outlets