Today, Matt Swaim and I chatted about fish on the Sonrise Morning Show, Sacred Heart Radio. Here’s where it’s listed in the Bible:

Matthew 15:34-36: The story of the loaves and fishes, when Jesus took seven loaves of bread and a fee small fish and miraculously fed 4,000 men, plus women and children, with leftovers.

When you consider the geography, the Sea of Gallilee, the Nile River, Jordan River and Mediterranean sea, this part of the world was surrounded by water abounding with fish.  Fishing was a huge industry on the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. And the disciples, many of whom were fisherman, were called “fishers of men”. 

What kind of fish do you think were in the waters around Jerusalem at that time?

Up to 40 species have been found there. The common fish included catfish and tilapia. Tilapia today is still called “St. Peter’s fish”. 

Fish is a symbol of Christ, as well, isn’t it?

Yes, you can see it as decorations in art, books, paintings.

LISTENER REQUEST: 

Baja Fish Tacos

Really, these are good any time of year but especially nice for something different during Lent.

Ingredients

Fish:

3 (6-ounce) tilapia fillets

Spice mixture: 

Combine and set aside:

1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika

1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Tortillas – soft flour tortillas

Instructions

Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon spice mixture evenly over both sides of each fish. Film skillet with oil. Over medium high heat add fish and cook 3 minutes each side or until done. Don’t overcook. 

Mix together:

I have an electric stove with coils. To blister the tortilla a tiny bit, I use tongs and place each one on a hot coil for a few seconds, turning over and blistering the other side. Don’t overdo or tortillas won’t be soft enough to fold. 

To serve:

To serve, divide fish among tortillas, and top with crema.

Lime Crema

1 cup sour cream

1 cup mayonnaise

Chipotles in adobo to taste (pureed in food processor first) – this give it some kick

Lime juice to taste – I like a good amount

Salt to taste 

Top with lime crema.

Gilding the lily:

A couple sprigs of cilantro, some finely diced tomatoes or mangoes, or a dollop of guacamole, are excellent as garnishes, as well.