Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup port wine
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer or food processor
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or food processor.
2. Add the port wine, chopped walnuts, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Chill in the refrigerator
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 cup of spread
- Serves 6-8 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 120
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of port wine, you can use sherry or red wine.
- Instead of walnuts, you can use pecans or almonds.
- Instead of garlic powder and onion powder, you can use fresh garlic and onion.
Variations:
- Add chopped dried fruit, such as apricots or cranberries, for a sweet and savory twist.
- Add fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a more herbaceous flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Toast the nuts before adding them to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This spread is meant to be served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a decorative bowl with crackers or bread arranged around it.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or additional chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of port wine or red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- Crudité platter with vegetables for dipping
- Assorted crackers and breads
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the spread is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use pasteurized cream cheese to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Port wine is a fortified wine from Portugal that has been produced for over 300 years.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, nutty, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering.
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Region: Portuguese