The Greeks and Hindus share a belief. This belief says that the intent and emotions of the one preparing a disk are infused into the dish. The belief also suggests that all who consume the dish will experience the cook’s heart. Books and movies have been shared along the same lines (read or watch “Like Water for Chocolate”). A recent dish reminded me of the emotions passed and consumed, often without the individuals at the table’s knowledge.
Today begins with musings over what dishes I will prepare and the reasons behind them. I am still thinking through what could be on the dinner menu. Given the appointments in my diary, I will need to plan. I also know my attitude will come through, so I want to think through what I am trying to express in my dishes. I always enjoy the process, so the challenge is on! Whispers dominating my thoughts include the following.
Knowing one is embraced and accepted is a good start. There are lots of options, as I remember an old quote; “They’ll get to know me by being kindly forgiven, with the slate of their sins forever wiped clean.” (Hebrews 8.12) I am thinking of a light teaser with familiar flavours. Ideally, it will light any mood into a place of harmony, lightness, and anticipation.
This can be followed by comfort food with a twist. Many have labelled this a fusion style of cooking, but I have come to see it differently. It is not about having fusion as a priority. One starts with the premise of the familiar, using what is fresh, and takes it on a journey of the heart. It is an opportunity to, in the case of the potato soup, add some roasted garlic and toasted hazelnuts along with a small amount of vegan cream. The sides of poppadums, cooked without oil, use spice to complement the seasoning in the soup.
The final course is easy: homemade lemon marmalade with hard Italian cheese.
My dish aims to mirror my steps today, each from my heart to yours.
