Mahi "Special", Harvest at The Ranch, Laguna Beach
This Mahi Sandwich brings together a medley of tastes and textures. The flaky, grilled fish meets the crispy bun, and the fresh toppings and zesty sauce create a symphony of flavors in each bite. Whether you prefer a simple, classic approach or you want to experiment with different toppings, a Mahi Sandwich is a tasty choice for seafood enthusiasts and anyone seeking a delicious sandwich option. So, the next time you get the chance, give it a try and enjoy this delectable seafood treat!
BELOW
During a remarkably productive sojourn in Trouville, spanning from September to November 1865, Courbet crafted this masterpiece. In a letter to his father, the artist proudly proclaimed his feat of creating "thirty-five paintings" in an impressively short span, leaving everyone astonished. While visiting Trouville with James McNeill Whistler, Courbet's choice of subject aligned with the styles of Eugène Isabey, Johan Barthold Jongkind, and Eugène Boudin. However, unlike many contemporary canvases, this painting places the fishing boat, with its fully-rigged structure and brimming equipment, at the very heart of the composition rather than relegating it to a secondary position. It is noteworthy that in 1899, this particular work gained the distinction of being the first Courbet piece to find its way into the Museum's esteemed collection.
Gustave Courbet, The Fishing Boat 1865 MMA 99.11.3
Salmon BLT, Hotel Indigo, DTLA
A Salmon BLT is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, where the traditional bacon is replaced with succulent salmon fillets. This variation combines the rich and flavorful taste of grilled or smoked salmon with the beloved components of a BLT, resulting in a mouthwatering and satisfying meal.
BELOW
This artful depiction of a fish market marks a groundbreaking shift in portraying everyday life, pioneered by Joachim Beuckelaer and his mentor and uncle, Pieter Aertsen, who resided and practiced their craft in Antwerp. Created amidst a turbulent period of religious conflicts, which disrupted the art market and encouraged a transition from solely religious subjects to more worldly themes, this painting celebrates the thriving fish industry by showcasing its abundant offerings from the sea. Beneath the surface, these images might carry a moral message, cautioning against the indulgence in excessive food and sensual pleasures.
Joachim Beuckelaer, Fish Market, 1568 MMA 2015.146
Tuna Salad, Luau Larry's , Avalon, CA
Fresh tuna is known for its premium quality, firm, meaty texture, and rich, flavorful taste. It is a versatile seafood option that can be prepared in various ways, such as grilling, searing, baking, or even served raw as sashimi or sushi. It is a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining due to its delicious taste and health benefits. Fresh tuna is a good source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (B12 and D), and minerals (selenium, magnesium, and potassium), promoting heart health and supporting brain function. However, its availability may be limited depending on your location and the season, and it tends to be more expensive than canned tuna. Cooking fresh tuna requires some attention to avoid overcooking and maintain its desired characteristics.
BELOW
Within this artwork, Sorgh skillfully merges the realm of still life with a domestic setting. In the foreground, two maids diligently tend to the task of cleaning fish and peeling vegetables, enveloped by the luster of brass and earthenware. However, upon closer inspection, hidden details emerge, adding intrigue to the scene. A playful cat, an open birdcage, and a subtle depiction of a couple engaged in affectionate gestures linger in the shadows, evoking a sense of mischief. Even the seemingly innocuous earthenware pots, to the discerning eyes of seventeenth-century viewers, would have conveyed an underlying erotic connotation, hinting at the nuanced symbolism present in the artwork.
Hendrick Sorgh, A Kitchen, 1643 MMA 89.15.7
Tuna Club, Sherman's Deli, Palm Springs, CA
Tuna Club sandwiches from a deli are a delicious and satisfying option that showcases the classic combination of tuna salad and a club sandwich. Delis often offer their unique take on this sandwich, making it a popular choice among patrons looking for a tasty lunch or a quick bite. The combination of tender tuna, crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and sometimes bacon, all layered between toasted bread, creates a satisfying and flavorful eating experience. Whether you dine in at the deli or grab it to go, the Tuna Club sandwich is a favorite go-to option for many sandwich enthusiasts.
BELOW
Zhou Dongqing, a close associate of Wen Tianxiang (1236–1283), the renowned Song loyalist from Jiangsi Province, found his artistic inspiration in a passage from the ancient Daoist classic Zhuangzi (circa fourth century B.C.). The passage depicts Zhuangzi observing the joyful freedom of minnows darting about in a river, prompting a philosophical exchange with his companion, Huizi.
Intrigued by this profound encounter, Zhou Dongqing translated his contemplation onto paper, writing at the end of the painting:
"Without being fish ourselves, how can we truly fathom their happiness? Yet, through our art, we can express the depth of our emotions. In exploring the subtleties of the ordinary, We dare to capture the ineffable."
Choosing paper over silk as his canvas, Zhou deliberately employs muted colors and delicate patterns of pale inkwash, evoking a sense of detachment and introspection, a sentiment further emphasized by his inscription. Hailing from Linjiang, in close proximity to the Daoist hub at Mount Longhu (Dragon Tiger Mountain), Zhou's art likely bears the strong influence of Daoist philosophies.
Zhou Dongqing, The Pleasures of Fishes, Yuan dynasty1291 MMA 47.18.10
Cream Cheese and Lox, Benjies, Santa Ana, CA
Lox is a popular delicacy made from cured salmon. To prepare lox at home, start with a fresh salmon fillet, preferably wild-caught and skin-on. Prepare a curing mixture by combining equal parts kosher salt and granulated sugar, optionally adding black pepper or dill for extra flavor. Remove any pin bones from the salmon fillet and lay it skin-side down on a large piece of plastic wrap. Cover the salmon with the curing mixture, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours to allow the curing process. Afterward, rinse off the excess salt and sugar, pat the lox dry, and thinly slice it for serving. Lox is commonly enjoyed on bagels with cream cheese, capers, onions, and dill, making it a delicious addition to breakfast or brunch.
BELOW
Among the series, this artwork stands out as one of the most cohesive and aesthetically pleasing designs due to its clever repetition and harmonious alignment of shapes and colors in both the foreground and background. Notably, a captivating triangular formation emerges, composed of the fishing lines, the fisherman's gracefully arched back, and the jutting promontory from which he casts his line, all mirroring the iconic shape of Mount Fuji on the distant horizon.
The visual interplay between the human figure in the foreground and the encompassing natural landscape in the background is intensified by Hokusai's deft use of deep Berlin blue hues, adorning the fisherman's jacket, the pinnacle of the shoreline in the immediate foreground, and the majestic summit of Mount Fuji. Through this strategic coloration, a seamless connection between man and nature is achieved, imparting a profound sense of harmony.
Initially, the print was executed using the indigo technique, leaving a lasting impression with its striking simplicity. However, in subsequent impressions, Hokusai expanded the color palette, adding depth and dimension to the already captivating composition.
Katsushika Hokusai, Kajikazawa in Kai Province, 1830–32 MMA JP2581
Ahi Sandwich, Lobster Trap, Avalon CA
Creating a mouthwatering seared ahi sandwich is simple and delightful. Begin by seasoning ahi tuna steaks with salt and pepper, optionally adding sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. Heat a skillet with oil over high heat and sear the tuna steaks for 1-2 minutes per side, aiming for a crusty exterior while keeping the interior tender and rare. Let the tuna rest briefly, then assemble the sandwich with your choice of bread, mixed greens, tomatoes, and optional toppings like red onions or avocado slices. Drizzle on some sriracha mayo or your preferred condiments, encase the seared ahi and veggies within the bread, and enjoy this scrumptious creation with an optional side of chips or salad.
A seared ahi sandwich offers a delectable way to savor the succulent flavors of tuna in a portable and satisfying meal. Seasoned with salt and pepper, and optionally coated with sesame seeds, the ahi tuna steaks are seared to perfection in a hot, oiled skillet. Achieving a crispy outer crust while retaining a tender, rare interior is the key to this delightful sandwich. Once rested, the tuna is combined with mixed greens, tomatoes, and other optional toppings like red onions or avocado slices. Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo or your favorite condiments, sandwich the seared ahi and veggies between slices of bread or buns, and voilà! A delectable seared ahi sandwich awaits, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
BELOW
At the 1877 Impressionist exhibition, the discerning critic Georges Rivière was deeply impressed by this painting, describing it as "strikingly majestic and extraordinarily calm." He suggested that the scene seemed to unfold from Cézanne's recollections, as if he were turning the pages of his own life.
The artistry of this composition draws upon influences from paintings by Manet and Monet during the 1860s, which depicted leisurely moments in the great outdoors, with a fusion of fishermen and elegantly attired strollers gracing a sunlit shore. Cézanne's work echoes the spirit of these earlier artists while also paying homage to the pastoral masterpieces of Giorgione, Titian, and Veronese, whom he admired. This amalgamation of inspirations results in a rich and harmonious visual tapestry that captivates the viewer with its serene allure.
Paul Cézanne , The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene), 1875 MMA 2001.473
Tuna Melt, Sherman's, Palm Springs CA
Over the years, Sherman's Deli has become a beloved institution in Palm Springs. It is a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking to indulge in classic deli fare and experience a taste of traditional Jewish cuisine. While Sherman's Deli is primarily known for its classic deli favorites, including pastrami, corned beef, and brisket sandwiches, their tuna melt is also worth mentioning. Served on perfectly toasted rye bread with a generous filling of creamy tuna salad and melted cheese, the tuna melt at Sherman's is a delightful twist on the traditional deli sandwich. It combines the comforting flavors of tuna and cheese, making it a satisfying choice for those who crave a warm and flavorful meal. So, if you're a fan of tuna melts or simply looking to try something different at Sherman's Deli, their version is sure to please your taste buds.
BELOW
In the summer of 1879, Krohg produced this captivating portrayal of a working couple amidst the artistically influential Skagen village, situated on the coast of Jutland in Denmark. The fisherman Niels Christian Gaihede (1816–1890) and his wife, Ane Gaihede (1812–1904), served as his models for this remarkable piece. In contrast to the prevailing sentimentality often associated with peasant subjects in Nordic art, Krohg chose to express a resolute objectivity, which struck contemporaries as somewhat unconventional and even faulted when the artwork was exhibited in Oslo shortly after its completion.
Responding to the critiques, Krohg later painted a more restrained version of the same subject, which can be found in the National Museum, Oslo. His dedication to portraying the working class and his commitment to an unadorned and objective representation left a lasting impact, reflecting the artist's distinctive artistic approach.
Christian Krohg, The Net Mender (Garnbinderen) 1879 MMA 2020.84.3
Tuna Melt, Beachcomber, Crystal Cove CA State Park
The Beachcomber Café: Nestled among the cottages, The Beachcomber Café is a popular and iconic restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience with panoramic ocean views. The café has a beachfront patio where guests can savor delicious meals, like the Tuna Melt, while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. It's a great spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it's especially popular during sunset, offering a romantic setting for couples.
BELOW
In the bow of a boat, a man and a woman are engaged in fishing, accompanied by another couple in the stern. Standing at the center is a younger man, beside whom a boy has taken a tumble, while two dogs also share the boat. In the foreground, a duck takes flight, while on the shore behind them, two men play musical instruments, a trumpet and French horn. On the left side, an inn comes into view, featuring figures seated in a lookout constructed partway up a tree, with a grand dome visible in the distance.
Thomas Rowlandson, Anglers of 1811, 1811 MMA 59.533.1467
Tuna Melt, Sycamore Kitchen, Los Angeles, CA
A pickle can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tuna melt, and its acidity can help cut through the cheese and mayo. It adds a crunchy texture and an extra burst of flavor to the meal. If you're a fan of pickles and enjoy the combination, then go ahead and serve it with a pickle. On the other hand, if you or your guests are not fond of pickles or have dietary restrictions, feel free to explore other sides like chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Ultimately, it's all about creating a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
Sandwich and Art