Summertime party pick

Left Hand Brewing Company

Left Hand Brewing Company's Sawtooth Ale is this Longmont, Colo., microbrewer's flagship beer.

The American-style, medium-bodied amber ale opens with nutty, caramel flavors followed by the herbal earthiness of hops. Sawtooth is best paired with Cajun, Mexican and grilled foods, pasta dishes with red sauces, fish and chips, pizza, mild English cheeses such as Lancashire or Leicester, red and green chilies, and oatmeal-raisin-walnut cookie for dessert.

In 2006, Sawtooth was regional champion (Rockies/Southwest) in the Bitter/ESB category of the United States Beer Tasting Championships.

Amber Cayenne-Citrus Marinade for Beef or Lamb

• 2 12-ounce bottles amber ale

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest

• 1/2 cup canola oil

• 1 tablespoon grated horseradish

• 1/2 cup minced onion

• 2 tablespoons minced garlic

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)



Mix all ingredients together in a blender, pureeing until onions and garlic are liquefied. Reserve one cup for basting, and use remainder as a marinade for beef or lamb. Use a shoulder or leg cut. Marinate meat for at least two hours for best flavor.



- Courtesy of www.grillingwithbeer.com