Thursday, April 2, 2009

GRAMMY'S POT...

Many years ago my grandmother taught me how to make stuffed artichokes, in this pot. She then taught me how to make stuffed cabbage, in this pot. She told me about living in New Jersey and bathing her boys in this pot, and that this was the only pot she brought when moving West. So when she insisted that I needed a large pot, she sent Uncle Art out to purchase one. When she presented it to me I said, "No, thank you." You see, all I really wanted was this pot...the one that tasted like Grammy's food and shared the stories that went back 50+ years. So, she kept the shiny new one, and I got the bathtub.

What you see above is the first round of chicken soup for Pesach...it has been strained and cooled in the fridge, and I will use Grammy's large serving spoon to remove the layer of fat before transferring to large tubs to freeze. Tomorrow will be time for another pot, as soup for the masses takes days!

I had help preparing this pot of soup, and I have to say that I haven't enjoyed sharing the kitchen since the last time Mom and Ba and I did latkes... thank you David for stepping up and sharing what is for me a great honor: making soup for Passover!

Sunday is horseradish grinding day. I haven't done this since I lived in Dallas (1987/88), but am happy to help! If you've never done this...it's a bugger! Eyes burn, nose hairs melt... the stuff of legend!

I love traditions, and while part of the process is very difficult for me... I will always do everything that can't easily be done by another.

I hope everyone is preparing for their family traditions and looking forward to time with those you love!
xo