Redefining Relationships

As someone who likes spicy food, for a long time I thought of black pepper as a second rate spice.  It was ok, but not great; very common place and not as flavorful as different types of chilies. I may have to shamefully admit that I looked down on it a little.

In Thailand however, I encountered a dish that used whole peppercorns to spice the food.  It was spicy and delicious.  Afterwards I payed more attention to the use of pepper in food.  Blackened chicken or catfish, salt and pepper prawns or asparagus.  I learned that I hadn’t been thinking of pepper correctly because the method of adding it to a dish with the typical amounts being used weren’t sufficient to my liking.  I began to use it more in my cooking and think about it more when ordering food.

I just had some nachos for lunch.  Black beans, pickled onions, crema, guacamole, olives, cheese, and jalapenos.  I put a little hot sauce on them, then saw the pepper shaker sitting there, “Blackened Nachos!” I thought as I dowsed my food.  It was delicious.

I have redefined my relationship with black pepper and given it the respect it deserves.

What are some relationships you’ve redefined?

What are some that could maybe use some redefining?

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