Ottawa Foodies

Chimichimi, good points on the location issues that plague some restaurants. It seems like a double-edge economic sword: rents are cheaper but walk-by-traffic must be reduced considerably.

In any case, strange as it seems to me that people pick that ugly Carling thoroughfare to open up on, its also a convenient bike ride away so i'm happy to indulge. :)

If / when you do go to Pookie's, let her (assuming Pookie will be serving you) know you'd like to try something spicy in the eastern (Issan) style. You'll probably get an enthusiastic response just for asking. And, from your profile and reviews, i'm guessing they'll find something of interest.

Thanks for the recipe Chimichimi! Here's one of my favourites for you...it's really good on chicken or fish...if you happen to like bright orange food.

Achiote Paste

1/2 cup crushed annatto seed OR
3 tablespoons annatto powder

10 garlic cloves, toasted on a griddle and peeled

process in a blender along with:

1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup lime juice

grind in a mortar and pestle and add to blender:

2 tablespoon coriander seed
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon cumin seed
1 tablespoon black peppercorn
6 allspice berries
3 cloves

Can be stored, refrigerated for up to 2 months so you can make it ahead.