When traveling, many places inspire us and sometimes it is the unexpected inspiration that comes from a unique place that lasts a lifetime. Valldemossa, Mallorca is such a place, in Spain. Likewise, music is a lifelong memory trigger and this unique village in the Balearic Islands, in the Mediterranean Sea, masters the melding of memories and music. Music composer Frédéric Chopin, 1810 to 1849, known for his composition Prelude in E minor, op. 28 no. 4, created music that allows oneself to be lofted into inspiration, as he was inspired during his stay in Valldemossa in the 1800’s. Chopin created some of his most memorable music while living in the Carthusian Monastery, even while ill. This quaint village features frequent Chopin concerts and the town’s people revere music. An island surrounded the sea, Valldemossa preserves a tribute to Chopin and its visitors are gifted with lasting memories of beautiful music, music history, and life by the sea in Spain. Try my Poached Fish recipe to envision seaside memories of enchanted places. You will need a linear fish steamer. Purchase a good whole fish of your choice, which will fit into the steamer. Clean the fish to remove any scales. Into the fish’s cavity place lemon slices and fresh herbs. Set the fish into the fish steamer rack. Pour chicken stock (salted) into the fish steamer. Add lemon rind and bouquet garni. If you like spice, add a pepper to the stock broth. Seal the lid and poach the fish on high heat for about 15 – 20 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. I like to serve a whole fish with a whole loaf of bread to continue the theme of wholesomeness. A whole fish makes any dining experience extraordinary and Chopin’s music playing simultaneously make the dinner momentous! © Kelly McBride Loft