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Dessert Sun Feb 21 2010
Pie with a Dash of Hot Sauce
Tabasco, probably the most well-known red pepper hot sauce, was invented in 1868 by a Maryland-born banker living in Louisiana. Since its creation, it's been used to spice up almost everything, from scrambled eggs to barbecue to cocktails. It nevertheless surprised me to discover recently Tabasco pie at the Water Works Visitor Center location of non-profit First Slice Pie Café (163 E. Pearson Street, 312-202-1227), which opened earlier this winter.
The Tabasco pie was originally available only to First Slice subscribers and by special order, but it is now available by the slice. Built from a thin, buttery crumb crust, cinnamon defines both the densely gummy custard filling and the feathery light cream topping. The hot sauce emerges later; it takes an extra second to feel the faint tickle of red pepper in the back of the throat.
At $3 per slice, the Tabasco pie is a cheap thrill in the best sense. It is also available at the original First Slice Pie Café location at 4401 N. Ravenswood, 773-506-7380.
OneSeedChicago / February 22, 2010 12:28 AM
Tabasco pie?!?!? I can't wrap my head around it.I'm going to have to try that one.