Black Garlic Roasted Chicken with Garlic-Braised Leeks
Serves 4

Black garlic is a unique ingredient made from white garlic that has been slowly heated and browned over several weeks. It's most often found at Asian or whole food-style markets. The result is a garlic flavor that is much milder than fresh garlic -- a taste that can even be described as sweet. The wet rub used in this chicken dish features both black garlic and fresh garlic. The result is a tender roasted bird with a new depth of flavor. Pair this chicken with garlic-braised leeks (recipe below).

Ingredients:
1 whole roasting chicken (about 4-5 pounds)

Wet Rub Ingredients:
2 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic
3 cloves black garlic
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 jalapeno, seeded

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

2. Spatchcock the whole chicken as follows: With the breast side down, cut on either side of the backbone from tail to neck, and pry apart. Cut the top of the breastbone and loosen the muscles on either side of the breastbone cartilage. Remove the breastbone, (keel bone), and further flatten the chicken open by pressing down. Spatchcocking the chicken flattens the chicken allowing it to roast more evenly and quickly.

3. In a blender or food processor, blend the wet rub ingredients together until smooth.

4. Coat the spatchcocked chicken with the marinade, including application under the skin. Let the chicken set at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the wet rub to be absorbed.

5. Place the chicken on a sheet pan, and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F at the thickest part of the breast.

6. Cut or carve the chicken into pieces to serve.

Garlic-Braised Leeks
Serves 4

Ingredients:
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 garlic bulb, top half only
2-3 large leeks, sliced lengthwise, only white and light yellow/green parts
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup chicken stock
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Clean the leeks well, making sure to rinse between every layer; they are grown in sandy soil and particles often "hide" between the layers. Trim away the dark green portions and the root end. Cut the leeks lengthwise into thin strips.

2. On the stovetop, in a large braiser, melt the butter. Add the garlic half and prepared leeks. Sauté the leeks until touches of golden brown caramelization appear.

3. Braise the leeks by adding the wine, and stock to the pan. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half and the leeks are tender.