Season's Greetings!
December has arrived, and with it a flood of food, festivities, friends, family, and fun. While the stress that often accompanies this time of year is a perennial topic, I'm learning that a simple shift in perspective is the key to embracing and enjoying the season. It is a privilege to experience the holidays! Any "stress" I attribute to sensory overload; it's sometimes a challenge to absorb all of that love and goodness in such a short time! And if this year your holiday season includes grief or pain (and I've been there during the "merriest" season of all), please know that you are being remembered with love and prayer! For each of us, whether this season is very merry or mixed with a bit of melancholy, Love really is the reason for this season. Remember, you are loved!
Of course, one of the ways I express love is to cook! This month I'm sharing recipes that are a bit unique, including some with Asian flavors and one with French technique. Honestly, as much as I appreciate "fancy" food during the holidays, sometimes I long for "regular" food. Most of my Decembers have consisted of either fancy feasting, Chinese take-out or pizza (because I'm so busy making fancy food)! So here are my humble suggestions for December foods that are simple and satisfying.
I am sharing a recipe for a rather fancy looking French-inspired breakfast dish, that is really simple to prepare. "Tarte Tatin" Baked French Toast with Cranberries & Pecans is glorious to behold and utterly delicious. Made in an iron skillet and turned out onto a platter, your friends and family will be duly impressed! A cup of soup and a sandwich for lunch is perfect this time of year. Cecily's Veggie Sandwich was a best-seller at the cafe, with homemade Italian Ciabatta as the foundation, spread with a roasted red pepper & sun-dried tomato hummus (Cecily's Sandwich Spread), and filled with fresh veggies and cheese. Spicy Thai Chicken Noodle Soup will satisfy your cravings for Thai food and chicken soup! And a Dark Chocolate & Cherry Eve's Bar is the perfect sweet ending to any lunch, or to sweeten a coffee or tea break
For a comfort food dinner, how about a Chicken & Beef Apple Meatloaf with Chinese Five-Spice Glaze? Far from mundane; I predict this may become your favorite meatloaf! Herbed Coconut Jasmine Rice and Crunchy Napa Slaw are absolutely perfect accompaniments, too! Dessert? How about a slice of Chocolate Ice Cream Roll drizzled with Chocolate Sauce? Make a few and keep them in the freezer to serve at a moment's notice!
Remember to check out the Holiday Edition, there are new recipes each week during this season! You'll find awesome dishes for entertaining or enjoying all by yourself.
There is still time to purchase a gift subscription to Feast of Eden Cooks at Home! The special price is just $60 for a 12-month subscription. Just email me at cheflisa@comcast.net to arrange for payment and delivery!
Believing your holiday will be peaceful and pleasant. I can't wait to see what 2017 holds for all of us!
Blessings,
