There is so much information and education on the quality of the food we eat, and the food that is available to us. The most important thing we need to know is that we need to be aware of this, and pay attention to what we eat and buy. I am part of a generation who's parents were introduced to all the things that made life easier, dishwashers, microwaves, TV dinners, pre-made meals you can freeze, packaged foods, additives (to keep things fresher longer). Even the farming changed in oder to keep foods more sustainable, through the harvesting, packaging and shipping. So many people want inexpensive and easy, fast food restaurants and chains supply this, losing quality in oder to keep up with demand and to make money.
There has been a bit of a shift with our incoming generation, the desire for better quality, in lifestyle and what we consume. My adult children seem to be much more aware of what is around them, with more of a desire to work hard and get their hands dirty. Doing things for themselves, making and creating a heartier healthier environment to live in, and they aren't alone in this. We can all be grateful for this awareness with many of their generation. I know I am, but this is easy for me to say when this is how I have been creating my world from the foods I eat, to the products I use. There is so much quality available to us, we just need to make the choices that are going to make a difference in our world.
It does begin with educating ourselves, knowing what is good for us and what is harmful to us and our environment. I am not telling you all to go out and buy electric cars, but pay attention to your direct environment , your home and community. Maybe start by using better quality cleaners, ones that are not toxic to you and your family, there are many that can do just as good a job at cleaning and disinfecting without the harmful chemicals to breath and sleep with. Caring is the start, education is the next step, doing is what makes the difference. Candles you use, what are they made of, fragrances that may not be good for you to breath in. So many things we surround ourselves with that may be harmful, one step at a time.
The food we eat isn't any different, QUALITY!!! Where does it come from, how was it grown or made, what ingredients do they contain, do they have vitamins and minerals our bodies can use. Processed foods, not so much, or at all, way too many things added to help them stay packaged and on the grocery shelves until they are purchased and consumed. Oils and sugars to make them taste good and to keep us coming back for more!! Ingredients in processed foods are usually about QUANTITY not QUALITY, too many ingredients that need to be added so they can last longer and look pretty. Try to get in the habit of buying fresh, organic produce, wild caught fish, free range organic eggs, grass fed organic meats. Make your own salad dressings, make your own marinades, make your own desserts. Purchase clean ingredients for the foods you make at home, be mindful of what you put into your body. It can be pricier than the alternatives, but your are so worth it. Best money spent!!! Feed the soul from the inside out.
Halibut with Lemon and Capers
12 oz halibut, or you can use white fish of choice
2 tbsp olive oil, separated
1 medium shallot, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine, you can also use stock or broth
zest of one lemon
Juice from one lemon
2 tbsp caper, rinsed and drained
1 tbsp chopped parsley
kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
pinch red chili flakes, optional
Directions:
Season the fish with salt and pepper on both sides, heat the olive oil in a skillet.
Add the fish and cook on both sides until browned, do not over cook, just until a light crust forms. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
In the same pan add the other tbsp of oil along with the shallot and garlic, cook until tender and translucent.
Add the wine or stock, lemon zest and juice, and heat until it gently starts to boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer the sauce for about 2 minutes until it reduces a bit. Add the capers, parsley and salt and pepper to taste and optional red pepper flakes.
Return the fish to the skillet for about another 2 minutes until the fish in warmed with the sauce.
