034: Important Work
little inspiration, lots of cooking
Welcome back to another week of Ceremonial — I’m so glad you’re here :)
I’ve been at a crossroads lately (are we all feeling this way?), very unsure sure of my next steps. Asking questions like : Why do I feel the need to create? What does creating look like to me? Do I actually love to cook? What context does that passion live in? Will I live with regret if I don’t do “x”? Am I a failure if I don’t aim to create something special, if all I do in this life is live?
A little existential, I know. But through mulling, I’ve decided on some answers. The most overarching theme is a mindset of contentment. Believe you can and you will, believe your life is rich and it is, believe you’re loved because you are. Yes maybe this thought is coming from a place of privilege because not everyone can change their reality with a positive thinking. But really this is coming from a previously (and still frequently) insecure, discontented girl who struggles to appreciate what she does have.
We are walking miracles and though everyday life may feel mundane, draining, uninspiring, I encourage you to remember that even the act of putting dinner on the table is creative and important work, edible art if you ask me. Below you’ll find recipes I’ve loved these past couple weeks. Some are very lacking in photos because life but don’t let that deter you from these amazing dishes. Let’s jump in!
The Perfect Filet
Something I’ve been learning is the act of letting my stomach lead the way. This filet is a stunner, and that’s coming from someone who is not well-versed in steak. So if you’re looking for the perfect homemade filet, watch the video below! I served mine over french style (very buttery/milky) mashed potatoes, poached asparagus (from newsletter 10), and some quick-seared garlic butter scallops. My food prep flow: pull steak from fridge, boil potatoes while you prep everything else, drain & mash potatoes, cook steak then rest while you sear scallops, poach asparagus, reheat and add butter/milk to mashed potatoes, serve. You can do it!
Blackened Fish Tacos
Okay!!! This was such a great recipe, horrible photos though. I wasn’t thinking I’d add the recipe until I had a bite and quickly took two of the worst food pics of my life. I’m laughing. Anyways, this was DELICIOUS and it will be making its way into my rotation. My biggest takeaway is that prep work is key and will help you achieve greatness. One of my downfalls is that I go at the “cooking” portion first then slap together the toppings/garnishes when I’m hangry and overstimulated, but this recipe helped change my perspective. I vote it as a great weeknight meal.
Basque Cheesecake
This recipe had its own debut on instagram last week. I’ve been looking at basque cheesecakes for months but took my time in trying it out. I thought it would be difficult! You’ll be happy to hear that it’s shockingly simple. My advice is to plan a day ahead. Set out your cream cheese before bed so it has time to soften to room temp, then make the cheesecake first thing in the morning. Allow it to cool/chill all day until evening dessert. This one taught me a life lesson : that beauty does not equate to perfection.
Mandarine-Sesame Salmon Salad
We ate this one for five days straight. It was a recipe I slapped together thanks to a big salmon craving. The salmon recipe is one you’ve seen before but this time we finished it with a salad of lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, oranges, nuts, green onions, sweet potatoes, and a sesame gingery citrusy salty sweet dressing. The salad is filling and nourishing, the flavors play well. An overall win for a whim! I hope you try.
I’m cooking my way through this final stretch of winter and can’t wait to get to spring. The sunshine and generous week of nearly 60 degree weather have helped. Let’s all take a walk today!
I hope you eat something good,
Amelia
UPDATE: Just tried the Basque Cheesecake recipe. I made it Guava flavor because *I couldn't help my latina self* and it was delicious!
Have you watched The Taste of Things yet? it is a feast for your eyes, intoxicating through all the senses. It reminded me so much of Ceremonial.