THE LAST BITE: On Traditions

Like most, I first learned how to cook from my grandmother. She planned our lunches during breakfast and our dinners during lunch. Her joy never dwindled but rather seemed to grow exponentially as she thoughtfully prepared homegrown ingredients into tasty dishes. From beginning to end, she wore her smile and nodded with pleasure as a table full of rowdy kids licked their plates clean with mm’s and aah’s. While her recipes were simple, I keep a mental rolodex of them in my mind when I’m planning meals for family and friends, and especially when I’m in need of a little extra comfort.

Working on this issue about preparing for the High Holidays made me reminisce about my own family traditions. Yes, as culinary professionals we can really get into the nitty gritty of entertaining dos and don’ts, but as Naomi and I discussed in the off-recording moments of her interview: the holidays are about being present with our loved ones, our faith, and ourselves. As we get into the holiday season, I wish nothing but love and joy for you and yours—may you treasure your time together as you create new and celebrate old traditions.

With gratitude,