Bool Koogi, Korean inspired sesame marinated boneless beef ribs
As a general rule, I'm not a fan of pre-packaged food, but the exigencies of single life require some acquaintance with "heat and eat" cuisine, or as I call it, bachelor chow. I've found an abundance of bachelor chow at Trader Joe's, some of it even surpassing the level of edible. I have recently discovered one such item, Trader Joe's "Bool Koogi, Korean inspired sesame marinated boneless beef ribs" -- their words, not mine. The less-than-inspirational title notwithstanding, these marinated beef strips are delicious. Slice open the package, place them on a grill or in a cast iron skillet for 5-10 minutes, and you've got an impressive main course. Best of all, the flavors in this dish pair ideally with Flambeaux Cabernet. The Asian spice of the marinated beef harmonizes with the oak-driven exotic spice of Flambeaux cabs. If you're looking for an effortless meal that impresses for beyond the effort required, pick up some Trader Joe's Bool Koogi, select the appropriate two veg sides (perhaps roasted string beans and polenta with green onions), pop a bottle of Flambeaux, and then lie to your guests about the source of the meat. If you're my age, you will remember the commercial line, "Ancient Chinese secret, huh?" Hopefully your guests will not.