California Rolls

As soon as my sister spoke the words, "California Rolls" today, I knew that tonight's dinner had to revolve around sushi. And it did. And it was fabulous. And I ate too many of them and overdid it. The flavors worked their magic on me so I had to eat three more than I probably should have.

And, that hot hot sinus clearing wasabi really brought back some instant old family memories. Back in the day when I was just a little girl sitting at my designated spot at the table, I would watch my dad put horse radish on everything. Every single evening. I remember thinking, "hmm, I wonder what that tastes like?" I am going to say right now that horse radish is probably what propelled me into the world of hot and spicy foods. At such an early age. And tonight when I smothered wasabi on every single California Roll and almost couldn't stand the heat, I found myself adding more to the next bite.

It's kind of crazy really. My husband doesn't understand spicy foods at all. "Why do you like your lips to burn while you are eating dinner?" he always asks. "I don't know, I just love it and I need it and I'm addicted to it" I always respond. I make a homemade Chimichurri sauce that is well known amongst my friends and family. It's bright orange and hotter than hot itself. I still owe a couple of friends a bottle as I promised to do so ages ago. It's a staple in my fridge. And it goes on everything. And it is my favorite flavor in the entire world.

I was introduced to 'My Chimi' years ago when I lived in Mexico on exchange and I guess it changed my life where my taste buds are concerned. My cousin brought me back 20 bottles once after a trip to Mexico. In my mind, it was like Christmas morning when I saw the loot. I gave several away because I HAVE to share a good thing and then I tried to ration the rest as best as I could. When I ran out, I had to start making it. And I have my aunt (the gourmet cook) to thank for that.

And this whole journal tonight, filled with all of these thoughts, comes from the two little words that my sister spoke to me today, "California Rolls". I have her to thank for such a delicious dinner and yes, I am still way too full right now....I blame the wasabi.