A Valentine's Night in the Matsuda Household

Valentine's Day is a day of love and affection, but for me, Tateki Matsuda, it's also a Tuesday night - a night dedicated to training and teaching at the gym. Despite the busy schedule, I wanted to make sure my family had a special meal waiting for them at home. So, I decided to prepare a simple yet elegant dinner that could be enjoyed even in my absence.

Chicken Confit - A Valentine's Special

The evening star was the Chicken Confit, a dish that requires patience and love, much like the relationships we cherish today. The chicken was slow-cooked in lard, taking time but producing incredibly tender and flavorful meat. The golden-brown crust of the chicken was a sight to behold, and the aroma was enough to make anyone's mouth water.

Rice Cooked in Chicken Stock - A Comforting Companion

To accompany the chicken, I prepared rice cooked in chicken stock. This is a simple dish, but the chicken stock adds a depth of flavor that plain rice can't compete with. It's a comforting side that complements the rich chicken confit perfectly.

Arugula and Beet Salad - A Fresh Contrast

I added a fresh Arugula and Beet Salad to the plate to balance the richness of the chicken and rice. The peppery arugula and sweet, earthy beets provide a refreshing contrast to the other components of the meal. The salad's vibrant colors added a festive touch to the plate, perfect for a Valentine's Day dinner.

A Valentine's Night to Remember

Even though I couldn't be there to enjoy the meal with my family, knowing they were savoring a meal made with love made my Valentine's Day special. It's moments like these that remind me why I love cooking - it's a way to express love and care, even when you can't be there in person.

So, that was our Valentine's night - a night of love, affection, and of course, delicious food. Whether you're spending the day with a loved one, or friends, or treating yourself, I hope your day was filled with love and joy. And remember, no matter how busy life gets, there's always time to show love through food.

Happy Valentine's Day