Frequenting the Smitten Kitchen University for last-minute dinner ideas with insert ingredient name here prompted me to realize the cooking constraints of a small accommodation. Fortunate enough to reside where space is ample and oven operations occur independently of thermostat changes, it also led to a second realization: It's officially summer, yet we haven't been particularly eager to hop on the barbecue train this season.
But, to be frank, isn't that how most humans function? Mere mortals tend to perform daily tasks on "auto-pilot", completing activities out of habit from a fixed roster of aptitudes. Alas, I am one to promote growth and positive change.
Thus, we set out to hold the household's first ever Surf & Turf BBQ.
Thus, we set out to hold the household's first ever Surf & Turf BBQ.
 |  |
The term induces flashbacks to childhood suppers at our local Red Lobster - complete with warm, crispy Cheddar Bay biscuits and purple crayons. As a matter of fact, it makes reference to a two-part course: one hailing from the waters ("surf"ing seafood), the other originating from grassy "turfs" of land (red meat in some format).
Amongst the most common pairings is steak and shrimp, however we took the liberty of upgrading to its larger crustacean kin.
 |  |
I shan't lie and hide the fact that both were being retailed at reduced prices at Longos.
Neither shall I neglect my persisting ineptitude at searing scallops. (For the record, cast iron is not as forgiving a material as the standard induction pan.)
 |  |
Between the top sirloin cap steak and medallions, the former was the unanimous champion. Despite their promising appearance and intense, rosy hue, the filet mignon-sized portions were juicy but tough. In stark contrast was the plush succulence of the cap steak - the epitome of medium rare!
 |  |
A can of Kirin Ichiban, copious amounts of steak and seafood, and more butter cookies than sustainable, I opted to walk off the sluggishness with an evening stroll to Loblaws. Unbeknownst to me were the revised store hours, so emptyhanded I returned. Neither cream cheese nor Navel oranges had been secured, yet the feelings of satiation had subsided. One out of two missions had been accomplished.
RSS Feed