31 West at Hotel Andalucia
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Miró at Bacara Resort & Spa
Olio e Limone Ristorante
Pizza Mizza Cafe
Quantum Restaurant & Lounge
Rodney's Steakhouse
at Fess Parker's Doubletree Hotel
Santa Barbara City College
Culinary School
Spiritland Bistro
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•••
El Encanto
Holdren's Steak & Seafood
Opolo Vineyard
P.J. Milligan
Tre Lune
 
 
Cumin and Pumpkin Seed-Dusted Grouper with Poblano Mashed Potatoes

Chef Michael Cordero of Café Buenos Aires
Chef Michael Cordero of Café Buenos Aires
Fish:
2 tbsp. cumin seeds, toasted
4 tbsp. pumpkin seeds, unsalted
6 grouper filets, 7 oz. each
salt to taste
1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil
Coarsely grind cumin and pumpkin seeds in spice mill, place on platter. Salt filets and firmly press one side only into seed mixture. Cook in preheated 400° oven.

Poblano Mashed Potatoes:
1 1/2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small canned chipotle chile, seeded
2 qts. milk
6 tbsp. butter
1 large poblano chile, roasted, peeled, seeded, cut into 1/2-inch dice
salt and pepper to taste
Bring milk, potatoes and chipotle chile to boil in large saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer 20-30 minutes. Darin milk and reserve. Mash potatoes and chipotle with mixer, adding butter 1 tbsp. at a time. Mix about 1 c. reserved milk for desired texture. Fold in poblano chile and season with salt and pepper. Serve with fish.

An interview with Chef Michael Cordero:

Who or what inspired you to start cooking?
My grandmother.

What is your signature dish?
Pez espada caribeno.

What three ingredients do you always have on hand to cook with?
Wine, garlic and salt/pepper.

What is your most versatile cooking utensil or gadget?
Tongs.

Who does the cooking at home?
My wife.

What drink would you recommend to accompany your recipe?
A glass of good wine.

What is your cooking motto?
Strive to be excellent, excellence will strive to be you.

What is the greatest compliment you've received for your cooking?
"It has taken me to a different place," said a customer.

Café Buenos Aires
1316 State Street
Santa Barbara
963-0242
www.cafebuenosaires.com

A casual elegant unique dining experience in the heart of Santa Barbara.



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