Food evokes all kinds of responses.
I have friends who
genuinely don't care what they eat. They eat just to live, could care less what
they ingest.
Some see food as a barrier to their ultimate goal – to be thin. Model
Kate Moss, scarcely a role model, nonetheless summed it up for way too many
young girls: Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.
Wow, not for me. Of course, that might be part of my
problem, but lots of things taste way better than skinny ever felt.
I've only been really thin once in my life. The months after
my father died, I stopped eating. It was the only time I was a size six – and
it didn't matter one whit to me. And I guess I wasn't even that thin, compared
to today's concept of size zero being a worthwhile achievement.
One of the happiest times for me is when I'm at the table, surrounded by family and friends, enjoying each other's company, as well as delicious food. I like to cook. It's my hobby. But for those who don't, I enjoy the food just as well if we're together, at a restaurant or eating take-out. Food paired with those I care about is the perfect combination.
But I also like the adventure of food. Some friends think spending money eating out is a waste. They want something tangible for their money, like books, clothing, jewelry. Heck, I like those things too, but I also like the fun of finding new restaurants, not even particularly expensive ones, and sharing the experience of new tastes.
Some times, food is a source of comfort. That's probably wrong, but does it work better if I say that food prompts memories that give me joy? When I make a Kugel (noodle pudding), I remember the lovely lady who gave me the recipe. I got a thrill when my granddaughter was asked what she wanted to eat when she got to Grandma's, and she announced that Grandma always made her macaroni and cheese (her favorite). My homemade chocolate chip cookies are a staple for holidays, expected by family and friends.
We host a luncheon every year on the first day of Rosh Hashonah (the Jewish New Year). One friend shared with me that he woke up the morning of the holiday, just a week after the tragedy of 9-11, and knew no matter what else was happening in the world, he could count on the baked salmon I cook every year for the guests. That sense of continuity gave him comfort in a time of uncertainty. This year, when I changed things up a little with a new chicken dish, you would have thought I had introduced pizza as the main dish for Thanksgiving (which wouldn't offend me at all if that is what your family has traditionally served).
So I'd like to lose 10 pounds, but I'd also like to continue
to eat my favorite foods. You don't have to tell me. Moderation is the key,
with patience required for slow, but steady results. Yeah, I hear you.
In the meantime, what does food mean to you? And what is your
favorite food memory?
Marian, the Northern half of Evelyn David
_____________________
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I love food, just not onions. :-) But I'm always trying to lose a few pounds and find that I think too much about that while I should be focused on my health and nothing less. The rest will follow, right?
ReplyDeleteAnd your baked salmon sounds delicious. Maggie
Marian, I love noodle kugel, and your baked salmon sounds grest. I like to eat and to cook. I've even written a cookbook, THE "I DON'T KNOW HOW TO COOK" BOOK: MEXICAN. We cement relationships over food, celebrate triumphs over food, and mourn together over food. I try to think in terms of what is good and healthy food to give my body, and let it go at that.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks Srk, Maggie, and Linda.
ReplyDeleteYour cookbook sounds great, Linda.
As for the salmon -- very easy and never fail. It's for a large crowd, but can be tailored to a smaller group.
1 side of salmon
2 Tablespoons of brown sugar
2 Tablespoons of butter
Melt butter and brown sugar until it makes a slurry. I do it in the microwave.
Spread on salmon. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 20 minutes.
I always serve mine at room temperature. Often I make a yogurt/dill/cucumber dip to go with.
Enjoy!
I love cooking and eating. All the things you said about celebrations and food are oh so true.
ReplyDelete