Embracing Friendship and Culinary Adventures
Embracing the Journey the second time around, I went once more to Tula Mexico.
The journey of seeking friendship and more in life is a continuous process. It’s about being open to new possibilities, embracing change, and staying true to ourselves. Along the way, one may encounter challenges and setbacks, but these experiences shape and contribute to ones growth. My Culinary Journey: From Savory Carne Asada Empanadas to the Ancient Wonders of Tula, Mexico and more with my Friend Lisa.
I created these little bad boys for Me and Lisa the moment we touched down.
Imagine biting into a perfectly golden-brown empanada, filled with juicy, marinated carne asada. The savory beef, seasoned with a blend of spices, melds beautifully with the flaky pastry crust. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, especially when paired with a dollop of creamy guacamole. The guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of garlic, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich empanada filling
Savory Carna Sada Empanada with Creamy Guacamole 1 lb carne asada
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package empanada dough
2 avocados, mashed
1 lime, juiced
1 tomato, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste Preheat oven to 375°F.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion until translucent. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Add carne asada and cook until browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
Roll out empanada dough and fill with carne asada mixture. Seal edges with a fork.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
In a bowl, mix mashed avocado, lime juice, tomato, cilantro, salt, and pepper for guacamole.
Serve empanadas hot with guacamole on the side.
Exploring the Ancient City of Tula, Mexico. After a satisfying meal, embark on a journey to Tula, Mexico, a city steeped in history and culture. Tula, once the capital of the Toltec Empire, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations. The Tula Archaeological Site is home to the impressive Atlantes, colossal stone warrior statues that stand atop the Pyramid of Quetzalcóatl34. Wander through the ruins, imagining the grandeur of the Toltec era, and visit the Jorge R. Acosta Museum to learn more about this influential civilization
In the heart of Mexico lies the charming town of Tula, a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine seamlessly. For three unforgettable days, Lisa and Myself hope to embarked on an adventure that we will have cherish memories and a deeper appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and for each other.
From the delicious Carne Asada Empanadas with Creamy Guacamole to the ancient wonders of Tula, and the unique Smokey Eggplant Hummus Wraps, this journey is a feast for both the palate and the soul. Each day offers a new culinary delight and a deeper connection to the rich tapestry of Mexican culture and history Smokey Eggplant Hummus Wraps A savory and smoky twist on traditional hummus wraps featuring roasted eggplant and tangy, smoky tomato salsa. Packed with flavors and nutrients, these wraps are perfect for a snack. 1 large eggplant, sliced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 large whole wheat tortillas
1 cup smoky tomato salsa
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place eggplant slices on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 mins.
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Spread hummus on tortillas. Top with roasted eggplant slices and smoky tomato salsa.
Roll up the wraps tightly and slice in half. Serve and enjoy
We ventured to the beach shores, where the rhythmic sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop to our conversations.
Walking along the sandy coastline, we encountered exotic lizards basking in the sun. I couldn’t resist capturing these fascinating creatures on camera as well as. Lisa . She shared stories of her own encounters with wildlife, and her new career as a Bartender. We bonded over our mutual appreciation for nature’s wonders.
Our last night was filled with Modern Mexican Soft Toritas with Carne Asada, Berries, and Spicy Chocolate
A fusion of Mexican flavors with tender carne asada, fresh berries, and a kick of spicy chocolate, all layered between soft toritas for a delectable twist on a classic dish. 1 lb carne asada
8 small toritas (soft tortillas)
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup heavy cream
Cook carne asada on a grill or stovetop until medium-rare, then slice thinly.
Warm toritas on a skillet until soft and pliable.
Place a few slices of carne asada on each toritas.
Top with mixed berries.
In a saucepan, melt chocolate with cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and cream until smooth.
Pour spicy chocolate sauce over the berries and carne asada.
Fold the toritas and serve warm.
My Last night remined me In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the quest for meaningful connections often takes a backseat. Yet, the pursuit of friendship and deeper relationships is a fundamental aspect of our human experience. It’s a journey that not only enriches our lives but also brings a sense of fulfillment and joy. Friendship is more than just a social construct; it’s a bond that transcends time and space. True friends are those who stand by us through thick and thin, offering support, understanding, and companionship. They are the ones who celebrate our successes and provide a shoulder to lean on during challenging times. In essence, friendship is about mutual respect, trust, and a shared sense of belonging. #travelblogger #travelingphotographer #travelgram #travelphotography #chef #chefsofinstagram #writer #writingcommunity #writersofinstagram #writerslife #thejourneycontinues #thejourneybegins #thejournal #journeytogether #journeytoself #mylife #mypath #travel #travelingphotographer
