Mi Unico Camino

Chicken Posole

May I offer you a magic potion for the soul?  If there was one dish, for me, it would be Chicken Posole made with chicken thighs.  I don't think I've made it the same twice, so that tells you it's easy to get the same results by different methods.  So, take another road, try it this way and then that because all paths lead to greatness.  This time I browned the chicken thighs first in a large pot, with a pinch of cumino seeds.  Separately, I broiled tomatillos, garlic, onions, Serrano and Poblano peppers to blacken.  Instead of pulling out the blender, I just crushed it all down with a masher (the oven will do the rest) and added it to the chicken along cilantro stems, Mexican oregano, about 6 cups of cold water, and a dollop of Better than Bouillon. Scrape up the fond on the bottom.  Bring to a boil, then stick the lidded pot in a 350 degree  oven until the chicken falls off the bone.  You should be able to take tongs and pull out the bone easily, that's why thighs are optimal.  Add a large can of hominy, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, let that just heat through.  Garnish with creme fresh, more lime and cilantro, avocado slices if you have them.  

If you like tangy heat, this will thrill and delight you.  The hominy is a soft lifeboat from the sensory over load that hits your tastebuds from that incredible broth created by the acidic fruity roasted peppers and tomatillos, not to mention the sweetness of the onions.

We need soft landings, we need medicinal aids.  I used to envy friends that seemed to glide through life but I've always been more interested in those who outwardly share their struggles, show them like battle scars in their eyes and smiles.  Each day some of us fight off our demons, like little soldiers developing new strategies and techniques, weapons against the blues or self defeating thoughts, especially during this time of year.  I think it's what life is about but words don't do the daily war justice.  We're lead to believe we're here to pursue happiness and I don't disagree entirely but I think the only road to get there is one fraught with hardship and broken hearts. If we don't welcome the grief, then happiness is not as fully felt, if and when it finally decides to show its elusive grace.