​Coffee: It's What's for Dinner

I live a slightly nomadic lifestyle. With that comes the opportunity to meet tons of new people, which is my favorite thing. Being able to suggest having a coffee or sharing a delicious meal makes getting to know someone a bit easier. (I mean, who doesn’t love food, right?)

A good cup of joe is my go-to for everything. Logically, I know I can’t always drink it with every meal — but that doesn’t mean it can’t be incorporated into every meal somehow. Let me share with you my favorite meals for lunch and dinner that include a little black magic.

Coffee Bacon Sandwiches: Need I say more? First off, bacon is an American staple — if you don’t like bacon, you should probably reconsider or try it again and again (and again) until you do. Being easy to create, these sandwiches are great for a friendly get-together. Everyone can personalize their own with different breads and spreads. Throw down some tortilla chips and homemade guac, and they’ll never leave. Perfect for those Netflix marathons.

Hearty Mole-Style Chili: This is one that I’ve personally never made, BUT I have tasted it, and let’s just say it is glorious. It's become a bit of a game-day superstition for me and my buddies. We always leave one to the side for the hockey gods. Add a little cayenne to kick it up a notch.

Slow-Roasted Turkey with a Coffee Glaze: This is something that I make when I’m looking to impress — you know, when my lady’s family comes into town or when I’m hosting the meal for our WWF volunteers. You can’t go wrong with the coffee and brown sugar glaze, which is the perfect mix of bitter and sweet.

Dry-Rubbed Salmon Tacos: Fiesta night, here I come. Everyone in the group brings their own speciality, and these are mine. Usually, I’ll offer a variety of fish, meat and veggie taco options, but these are by far the best. Add in some tequila, and you’ve got yourself a margarita night.

Whatever genre of food you’re looking to slay, coffee can be a part of it — a key part. Not only can it help keep your energy up, it’ll kick up your flavor as well. And sharing food brings you closer to your community. While it’s nice to brag about my ability in the kitchen (which some people still find surprising), it’s even better trying out everyone else's meals. So, what are you cooking?