Neighbors

It is never a bad thing when you have neighbors over for dinner. Of course, it is better when grilling is involved. When they bring margaritas, it is hard to imagine a bad time.

Last night I grilled some steak for fajitas. I also grilled onions and peppers. The steak marinaded over night, and I prepped the veggies early in the morning. No sense in working too hard late in the day if you don't have to.

I also made some "Spanish" rice. I've learned that what we Americans call Spanish rice is mostly a Tex-Mex concoction. I also have decided that the food I cook, eat, and enjoy need not have a pedigree, just good flavor, texture, aroma - the important stuff.

The gem in this meal was the refried beans. I used kidneys and pintos with a dash of cayenne. I have no problems using beans from a can (not pre-mashed, but whole beans). They taste just fine when smashed up and sauteed in butter. I also know that lard is the traditional fat, but it's just hard to feel right about buying a tub of the stuff, especially since my middle is not as middle-sized as I'd like it to be. I like to keep the beans on the coarse side when I mash them. There is a certain satisfaction in the rustic look of beans that have not been completely macerated.

The Verdict

The steak was ok, not stellar. I found the marinade I'd concocted to be a bit too bright and acidic. While I like the lime, the vinegar I used was a bit heavy. I also could have used more salt and cilantro to fill out the flavor. The peppers and onions were good, just a bit crisp but with a light grill-char. The rice was quite good, although not quite "authentic."

The beans were awesome, and any excuse to eat queso fresco is a good thing if you ask me.

More than anything, it was great to share some time with some fantastic neighbors, trade some stories, and enjoy each other's company. As much as I love the simplicity of dinner with just my wife and daughter, it is a treat to open up our home when we can and break bread - or tortillas - with another family.