Fresh Zombie Meat Halloween Appetizer

Gross Halloween party foods are always more fun on a stick - even for zombies.

A nice dipping sauce on the side of a skewered light meaty bite is always an undead crowd pleaser at Halloween parties. Zombies will appreciate the effort spent on creating a dish that is not only revolting in name, but uses delicious fresh meat in a creative way.

For those still living in attendance at a zombie event, a nice rare steak skewer with a side of spiced tomato sauce is also a good choice for a Halloween appetizer offering.

Ingredients:

For Steak

Steak cut of your choice

Salt and pepper

Butter

Skewers

For Dipping Sauce

1/3 cup finely chopped onion

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped peeled fresh ginger

3/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon hot paprika

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of cayenne

Pinch of ground cloves

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 1/2 tablespoons cider vinegar

1 (14 1/2- to 15-oz) can whole tomatoes in juice, coarsely chopped (reserving juice)

2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Directions:

Cook onion, garlic, ginger, and spices in oil in a 1- to 2-quart heavy saucepan over moderately low heat, stirring, until onion is softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in vinegar and simmer over moderately low heat 1 minute. Add tomatoes (with juice) and brown sugar, then increase heat to moderate and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes. Cool slightly, about 5 minutes.

Purée sauce in a blender until smooth (use caution when blending hot liquids). Serve at room temperature.

Cooks' note: Sauce can be made 3 days ahead and cooled completely, then chilled, covered.

Makes:

about 1 1/2 cups