Easter Friday with a Purpose

Just one more day before we reach the end of the Easter Octave, but far from the end of the Easter Season. That’s okay, this is such a beautiful time to be alive in the Secular world. There are colors everywhere. I love springtime.

Regardless of the season, we are all called to a higher purpose than just to exist. In many ways, it’s the same higher purpose – to be fishers of men. Lead by example. Some of us are given a public platform from which to shine in His glory. Others are called to simply be kind, gentle, and Christ-like in our everyday lives. What a joy and a blessing that is – to learn to be content, to find happiness in that contentment and to share that sense of happiness with those around us.

This year our observances of the days leading up to Easter have been more private as we were home-bound. Hubby was still recuperating from hip replacement surgery early on. While he was “stuck” inside, I had been trying to cheer him up with some of his favorite kinds of food. It’s an obligation, sure. In a marriage we are obligated to put our spouse first in all things. While that sounds like work, it really isn’t when you both make the effort. Then it becomes a joy. I cook (which I love to do anyway) and I get the pleasure of seeing his face light up. He’s pleased, lets me know, and I light up. If our rolls were reversed, I’m sure he’d find a way to have my favorite dishes delivered, or maybe even learn to cook. He did try cooking when I was recovering from open heart surgery. That did not go quite as well as he had hoped. It’s much easier for me, retired and all, to putter in the kitchen. I will give him an A for effort. We all have our skills. His in manning the grill; being a good provider, a fierce protector, and a loving husband.

Since today is a Friday, I thought I’d make my favorite sauce (Chipotle Cream) with one of his favorite fish (Mahi-Mahi).

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Before we head into the kitchen to create an amazing meal to share, I wanted to take a moment to wish my mother a most blessed birthday. It’s hard to believe it’s been more than forty years since I’ve heard your sing-song voice. I don’t think I told you enough just how much I love you, but when we are reunited again, I will tell you every moment. Happy Birthday, Mom.

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Chipotle Cream Mahi-Mahi
4 Mahai-Mahi Fillets
Mexican Seasoning of choice to taste
1/2 tablespoon Jalapeño Olive Oil
Salt to taste
White Pepper to taste
4 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
6 tablespoons Butter, divided
4 tablespoons Tequila
1 cup Heavy Cram
1/3 cup Mexican Cheese Blend
1/4 cup Chicken Stock or as needed
4 drops Scorpion Pepper Sauce or to taste
4 Flour Tortillas, warmed

Pat the Mahi dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with just a pinch of seasoning such as Tajin, Taco or Cayenne, depending upon desired heat and flavor profile.

Heat oil a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season fillets with salt and pepper and sauté for about 2 minutes on each side, until just cooked through. Transfer to a plate; tent and set aside.

While the fillets are sautéing, finely dice the Chipotle Peppers, set aside.

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in the now empty skillet. Add the tequila; allow to reduce to half while scraping any bits off of the bottom of the pan, about 2 minutes.

Reduce heat to low-medium heat, add the cream, Chipotle Peppers and Mexican Cheese Blend, bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Add remaining butter, one tablespoon at a time. Thin slightly with Chicken Stock to create a thick yet silky sauce. Taste, elevate heat as desired with Scorpion Pepper Sauce.

Once the sauce is ready, return the Mahi back into the skillet. Taste test sauce and adjust salt and pepper, if needed. Spoon some of the sauce over the fish; simmer until the Mahi Fillets are warmed through.

While the fish are simmer, warm the tortillas for serving.

Serve the Chipotle Cream Mahi with Jalapeño Refried Beans, Mexican Rice, tortillas and Margaritas.

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The stone which the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the LORD has this been done;
it is wonderful in our eyes.
This is the day the LORD has made;
let us be glad and rejoice in it.