Brunch with a Twist: Queen of Hearts 2022 & Shakshuka

A Tale of Innovation and Tradition

Welcome to Paired, where we dive into the delightful world of food and wine pairings, always with a sprinkle of humor and heaps of flavor!

Today's brunch spotlight shines on an extraordinary pairing: the innovative Queen of Hearts 2022 from Ya'acov Oryah Wines and the traditional Israeli dish, Shakshuka. This combo is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure, much like a Sunday crossword - challenging but immensely satisfying once completed.

The Wine: Queen of Hearts 2022 - A Symphony in a Bottle

Ya'acov Oryah's winemaking journey, which began in 2004, is akin to an artist constantly reinventing their palette. With a philosophy rooted in exploration, experimentation, and a dash of delightful error, Oryah's wines are a testament to his relentless curiosity and precision. The Queen of Hearts 2022, a blend of Chardonnay, Sémillon, Chenin Blanc, and Gewurztraminer, is a tribute to this ethos.

Tasting Notes: Imagine a fresh, mineral-like breeze carrying the aroma of spring blossoms. This wine is light yet complex, with an aromatic bouquet that tells a story in every sip - a story of dedication and a passion for the craft.


The Pairing: Shakshuka - A Timeless Israeli Delight

Shakshuka, a staple in Israeli cuisine, is as much about the experience of making it as it is about eating it. The dish is a vibrant tapestry of tomatoes, spices, and poached eggs, symbolizing the warmth of Israeli hospitality.

Ingredients:

Shakshuka in a Black Pan
  • Olive oil

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 2 cups canned tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 4-6 eggs

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  2. Stir in bell pepper, cooking until tender.

  3. Add tomatoes, cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until it thickens slightly.

  4. Create small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.

  5. Cover the skillet. Cook until eggs are just set.

  6. Garnish with parsley. Serve with a smile and a hearty slice of bread!

A Brunch Like No Other

This pairing is a dialogue between the old and the new. The Queen of Hearts, with its fresh, mineral notes and aromatic lightness, elegantly complements the rich, spiced flavors of the shakshuka. The wine's complexity mirrors the dish's simplicity, creating a balance that's akin to finding the perfect note in a melody.

As you sip and savor this combination, remember you're not just having brunch; you're embarking on a journey through history and innovation. Oryah's dedication to winemaking and his desire to push boundaries resonate in each glass, while the shakshuka brings you back to the roots of traditional Israeli cooking.

So, dear readers, let's raise our glasses (and our forks!) to a brunch that's more than a meal - it's a celebration of the stories and passions that bring us together. Here's to exploring the delicious tapestry of life, one pairing at a time. Cheers!


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Paired Israel

From the high elevations and complex wines of Galilee and the Golan Heights, through the historic and robust offerings of the Coastal Plain, to the Judean Hills with their wines of depth and character, it paints a picture of diversity and innovation. The Negev Desert, with its intense, flavorful wines born from extreme conditions, and the Samson and Shomron regions, each with their own distinct profiles, further illustrate the rich tapestry of Israeli winemaking. With Paired Israel, we showcase how each region contributes to the dynamic Israeli wine landscape, combining ancient traditions with modern techniques.

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