DRUNKEN FISH

Steps:

• Thaw fish; rinse fish; pat dry.
• Set aside.
• Meanwhile, for sauce, if using dried peppers, cut open peppers; discard stems and seeds.
• Place in a small bowl and cover with boiling water.
• Let stand 30 minutes to soften.
• Drain well.
• Cut the peppers into small pieces. In a blender or food processor, combine tequila and pepper pieces.
• Cover and blend or process until nearly smooth.
• In a medium saucepan, cook onion and garlic in hot oil until tender.
• Stir in tomato, oregano, salt, and cumin.
• Add blended tequila mixture and chili powder, if using.
• Bring to boiling; reduce heat.
• Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place fish in a greased 2-quart rectangular baking dish.
• Spoon about 1/2 cup of the sauce over fish (cover remaining sauce and keep warm).
• Bake fish, covered, for 20 to 25 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
• Season fish to taste with salt and ground black pepper. I.
• If desired, garnish with lime slices and oregano sprigs and serve with rice.
• Pass remaining sauce.
• MAKE AHEAD:.
• Prepare the sauce as directed. Cover and chill for up to 2 days. To serve, place sauce in a covered saucepan and heat over medium heat until hot.