Cooking as Therapy

We all know the times we are in are intense; with the upcoming election, the state of the economy and the unsteady future bombarding us daily.
So one of the most calming activities I can think of is to get in the kitchen and cook. I try to find the time to go to the Farmer's Market which gets me in the mood to have a wonderful meal. I go home and experiment with what is in season or go for something simple with delicious results. Either way it makes me feel satisfied and relaxed to take time to chop, mince and dice. A transformation occurs when one is around food and can put together even a home cooked meal.
Another benefit to cooking at home is the savings. Eating out is one of the first things to cut back on in times such as these so why not invite a couple friends for dinner and enjoy!
Try the following recipe from my cookbook and let go of your worries.

Grilled Skirt Steak with the Best Marinade
Serves 4

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds skirt, flank or hanger steak, scored
3 shallots, minced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 Tb. Dijon mustard
1 Tb. rosemary, chopped
Fresh black pepper
1 cup dry red wine
2 scallions, julienne, garnish

Procedure
1.Place the steak in a shallow baking dish.
2.Combine marinade ingredients, except wine and scallions in a medium bowl. Pour over steak and marinate about 2 hours or overnight, refrigerated.
3.Half hour before grilling remove steak from the refrigerator.
4.Heat grill pan for about 5 minutes. Grill steak, reserving marinade 7 to 8 minutes on each side for medium-rare meat. Remove to a cutting board.
5.Bring marinade to a boil with the red wine in a small saucepan, boil for 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside. Slice meat thinly against the grain. Place on a serving platter and pour the marinade over. Garnish with the scallions and serve.