Ancho Chile Oil Food

KATY'S DATES WITH ANCHO CHILI OIL

Steps:

• To make the ancho chili oil, put the olive oil and the chili powder in a small pan over low heat and warm gently for 10 minutes; set aside for 1 hour to infuse, then strain through a sheet of paper towel. This can be done the day before.
• Position a rack at the top of the oven and preheat to 350°F.
• In a small bowl, mix the walnuts, sage, garlic, orange zest, and olive oil to form a crumbly paste. Using a teaspoon press the paste into the cavities of the dates. Wrap each date with a 3-inch-long strip of the ham. (The dates can be covered and refrigerated until an hour before guests arrive, when they should be brought to room temperature.)
• Place the dates on an ungreased baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes (8, if they're cold); arrange on a serving tray and drip with the ancho chili oil. Serve warm or at room temperature. Napkins are a must.

ANCHO CHILE MAYONNAISE

Steps:

• In a small bowl, combine the chiles julienne and the vinegar and leave to soak for 1 hour. Meanwhile, in a small heavy skillet heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and saute, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 7 minutes, or until translucent. Add the garlic and the cumin and cook for about 2 minutes more, until the garlic has released its aroma. Remove from the heat and cool to room temperature. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar and chile mixture, the salt, pepper, and egg yolks. With a balloon whisk, whisk together until completely smooth, then continue whisking as you drizzle in the olive oil, very slowly at first, whisking until all the oil is absorbed and the mayonnaise is emulsified. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the onion-garlic mixture. Cover and refrigerate if not using right away, for up to 1 week.

ANCHO CHILE MARINADE

Steps:

• Soak dry chiles in water overnight or until soft. Remove seeds. Add all ingredients except meat in food processor. Puree until smooth.
• Spread mixture over meat and refrigerate at least one hour, up to 24 hours.
• Heat grill to about 400 degrees, or if cooking inside heat small amount of oil in skillet or grill pan over high heat. Salt meat to taste. Grill meat about 4 minutes per side, depending upon thickness, until done.