I'm back!
Sorry for the hiatus folks, but I was foiled by comcast last night. Not only did we lose our internet and phone, all of our neighbors lost their internet and phone service so I couldn't even use one of their networks. By the time Comcast fixed our service I was already in a benadryl-induce fog (I think I was allergic to something in the black raspberry fields). We did have a delicious dinner, however -- Tuna and Scallop Ceviche with Warm Carmel Corn. To me, ceviche is a perfect summer meal--it's light and citrusy, high in flavor and protein but low in calories, and it's incredibly easy to make! The "Carmel Corn" actually didn't have any additional sugar in it. I removed fresh corn from the ear and sauteed it in a little butter and salt until it began to carmelize on the bottom of the pan. I then deglazed the pan with a little bit of white wine, which made a delicious "carmel" sauce to coat the corn. The warm sweetness of the corn was a perfect complement to the cold and citrusy ceviche.
Unbeknownst to me, my drivers license expired on my birthday last month even though I got a brand new license in February. I only realized my license was expired when I tried to buy a box of Claretin and was denied. The DMV is always an adventure; it's great people watching and most of the stereotypes are true. I sat in the waiting room with a motley crew of compatriots for 45 minutes when a rather large, scowling woman called my number. I had a great rapport going with Selma Bouvier until the time came to take my picture. First offense--I smiled. Second Offense--I had my head tilted. Third offense--Selma forgot to save the picture. Strike three. I was ready to give up my right to drive, and was adjusting my hair when BAM the flash went off. Success, I think, although I won't get my new license for a week and I think my hand might have made the glamour shot.
I definitely need to stress cook. We are having pan seared grouper and Black Raspberry Honey Drops.
I originally was going to make a lemon caper sauce for the grouper. My capers mysteriously disappeared (I"m thinking The Case of the Caper Capers could be my next great work...). I switched gears and went with a sweet and sour sauce instead. Using Shallots, Rum, Lemon juice and zest and the secret ingredient, maple syrup, I created a tangy sauce that paired perfectly with the pan fried fish and linguini.