One of my earliest culinary inspirations wasn’t a renowned chef or a celebrity on TV, but my former step-mother-in-law, Kimi, from my first marriage. While she may not have been a culinary expert, she was a fantastic hostess, and her memory always involves delectable dishes. Kimi and my father-in-law resided by the beach and welcomed everyone with open arms. Their home was a popular spot for pre and post-surf gatherings, where impromptu celebrations were the norm, and delicious food was a constant presence.
Kimi had a knack for whipping up delightful bites for her guests as they engaged in conversation. I fondly recall one occasion when she presented a simple yet extraordinary treat: cream cheese adorned with hot pepper jelly and accompanied by a stack of buttery Ritz crackers. Kimi’s friends and I devoured it, and as a Filipino-American, I was introduced to a flavor combination I’d never experienced before. The way the creamy cheese transformed when paired with the sweet and spicy jelly, all on the delicate Ritz cracker, left an indelible mark on me.
With my background in fine dining, I sometimes become absorbed in elaborate and intricate recipes. However, Kimi’s creation serves as a gentle reminder that culinary excellence need not be extravagant. Sometimes, the most straightforward combinations can captivate hearts and palates, just like her raspberry pepper jelly cream cheese dip with Ritz crackers.
Original Recipe:
Kimi’s Creamy Raspberry Pepper Jelly Dip
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup of raspberry pepper jelly or preserves (plus extra, if needed)
- A pinch of flaky salt (optional)
- Ritz or buttery round crackers for serving
Instructions:
- Place the 8 ounces of cream cheese on a serving plate and let it sit at room temperature until it softens, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can microwave the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl for about 15 seconds until softened, then transfer it to a serving plate.
- Stir the raspberry pepper jelly or preserves (1/3 to 1/2 cup) to loosen it. Generously spoon the jelly over the cream cheese, allowing it to flow down the sides decoratively. Optionally, sprinkle a touch of flaky salt if desired, and serve with Ritz or buttery round crackers. As you indulge, top with more pepper jelly as needed.
Unique and Original Recipe:
Seaside Bliss Creamy Pepper Jam Delight
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Introduction: Early food memories often take us back to the most unexpected sources of culinary delight. For me, it was Kimi, my former step-mother-in-law from my first marriage. She may not have been a gourmet chef, but she was an extraordinary host, and her legacy is forever intertwined with the aroma and taste of delectable dishes. Living by the beach, she and my father-in-law maintained an open-door policy, making their home a haven for friends, particularly surf enthusiasts. These spontaneous get-togethers always revolved around good company and even better food.
Kimi had a knack for serving up simple yet remarkable treats, like the one I vividly remember – a sumptuous blend of cream cheese, hot pepper jelly, and buttery Ritz crackers. As a Filipino-American, this fusion of flavors was an entirely new experience for me, and the way the savory cream cheese melded with the sweet and spicy jelly on the crispy Ritz cracker was nothing short of magic.
With my background in fine dining, I often find myself engrossed in the world of complex, artful recipes. But Kimi’s creation stands as a testament that culinary excellence can be found in the most unassuming combinations. Sometimes, all it takes is three humble ingredients to create a culinary sensation, much like the Seaside Bliss Creamy Pepper Jam Delight.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup of raspberry pepper jelly or preserves (plus extra for those who crave more)
- A hint of flaky salt (if you desire)
- A stack of Ritz or buttery round crackers for serving
Instructions:
- Begin by placing the 8 ounces of cream cheese on a serving plate and allow it to gracefully soften at room temperature for about an hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can achieve the same effect by microwaving the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl for approximately 15 seconds, and then transfer it to your serving plate.
- Next, give the raspberry pepper jelly or preserves (1/3 to 1/2 cup) a gentle stir to loosen it. Now, with an artistic flair, generously ladle the jelly over the cream cheese, letting it cascade down the sides in a visually pleasing manner. For those who appreciate a touch of contrast, a dash of flaky salt can be added. Serve this delightful concoction with a stack of Ritz or buttery round crackers, and don’t hesitate to replenish the pepper jelly for those who crave an extra kick of sweet and spicy goodness.
Conclusion: In the world of gastronomy, it’s easy to get lost in the allure of complexity and sophistication. However, the Seaside Bliss Creamy Pepper Jam Delight serves as a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, it’s the simplest recipes that leave the most significant impact. With just three humble ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of love, togetherness, and the joy of sharing good food with good friends.
image source : the kitchn
