Fish and Chips, Anyone?

When I have an idea in my head that I’m really excited about, it’s hard to ignore it. As you may, or may not, have read in previous posts, I’ve started observing Orthodox Lent. I’ve chosen to be a vegan/pescatarian until Orthodox Easter on April 24th. My diet hasn’t changed all that much, but I’m having so much fun finding new recipes.

All last week, I envisioned cooking and eating Fish and Chips. I’ve never made fried fish or fries, but since I’ve had experience frying breaded chicken I figured I’d be able to manage this.

I had no idea how long it would take, but I found two recipes that quickly consumed my entire Saturday afternoon and evening. On the menu was:

• Beer Battered Cod

• French Fries

• Vegan Tartar Sauce

I made a quick dash to the store, grabbed a few things, and opened Aida’s Diner for business.  

In addition to cooking this new recipe, I had also planned to shoot each step of the recipe to later edit the footage for a video. This was probably the hardest part for me because I was focused on how everything looked on camera, while simultaneously cooking a new recipe. It’s exhausting in the moment, but once I sit down to edit the clips I’m grateful I summoned the energy to make it happen.

After four arduous hours in the kitchen, I created exactly what I envisioned – crispy beer battered fish and chips with vegan tartar sauce. I was in complete awe. I couldn’t believe that I made a new dish that was both delicious and looked picture perfect. Who was I?

This was such a savory moment. It’s a blessing to have the ability to bring your ideas to fruition.