101 Things To Do Before Next Thursday: Number 1
101 TTDBNT: Number 1 - Add chilli and mint to pineapple
Since this is the first in a series, I should perhaps make some sort of explanation (excuse) for its appearance.
My idea was to give short, snappy reference to things which have made life happier for me at some stage. Most, but not all of them, will be to do with cooking. Some you will have tried and some you will dismiss immediately on the grounds of discrimination led by taste buds which reject particular flavours. I'm pretty sure that most 'bucket lists' should be taken with a pinch of salt. This one is definitely an indication of possibilities rather than a prescription. Initially, it reveals a few of my favourite things. What you make of or do with it is entirely up to you.
The title is immediately open to interpretation and subversion. I cannot guarantee that a hundred and one things will be thrust upon you... I might well exceed that number or, more likely, fall short of it. I certainly have a riot of recommendations buzzing around but I'll concentrate on beginning to publish them rather than count them.
Of course, next Thursday is beautifully flexible and will always be available. It just keeps coming round - so don't be disappointed and think that you've missed your chance at any stage. The only thing that might create a little urgency is scientists' predictions of a new Ice Age when Thursdays will be in short supply due to humankind's preoccupation with less mundane affairs. Let's not dwell on that one and instead make an effort to live in the moment... which for now gives you the chance to have a go at TTDBNT #1.
You'll find plenty of recipes for this but here is the one I used most recently at the end of a spicy paella and crusty bread meal.
You can see the pineapple in various stages of the process. It was served on a glass dish and not on the worktop visible through it!
There is sweetness here; acidity, gentle spice heat and green mint vibrancy. The main impact is its lovely freshness. Perfect for a light end to summer meals including barbecues (you could sear the pineapple nicely over coals).
There, I'm done for now. Here's to another hundred of these... no rush.