Amaya "Dad, I really like the grilled meat tonight. Especially the brown parts. It's really tasty."
Me "Uh, the steaks are seared Amaya, not grilled."
Amaya "Well, I really like the brown parts. Good job cooking the steaks tonight Dad."
Aki and I enjoy grilled steaks with their aroma of smoke and the flavor of the char. Amaya does not. And though she has repeatedly shared her feelings with us, I was unable to hear her. When I was getting ready to prepare the steaks for dinner last night, Aki informed me that I should sear the beef. I asked why. She reminded me of countless past experiences where we spent a good portion of the the meal carving off the exterior of a beautifully grilled piece of meat. It was Mother's Day and Aki wanted to enjoy her dinner.
Since she had orchestrated a nearly perfect day thus far, I followed directions. I dry seared the steaks in a salted cast iron pan. As the fat rendered, the steaks began to sizzle and brown. I turned them often to ensure even cooking. I smoked out the house, which was fine because all the windows were already open. The steaks developed a stunning crust. After resting we carved the meat and all three of us crushed the steaks. Amaya could not stop eating those brown bits, that perfect crispy, crunchy, salty, meaty exterior. And neither could we. It was a very happy Mother's Day.
Years Past
May 12, 2005
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