Over the course of the past few months I have had many friends in need of some comfort cooking--because of new babies, illnesses, work stresses, and other major life changes.
Instead of a card, what these people need the most is some good food that they don't have to cook for themselves.
This cookbook has updated classics, like polenta lasagne or stuffed peppers a la Michael Chiarello, old stand-bys like chicken noodle soup and oatmeal cookies, even a section with herbal tonics and smoothies.
The ingredients are easy to find and the recipes are easy to follow. I especially like the To Make Ahead instructions for each recipe. There's no guessing if a dish freezes well, or how to cook/assemble it for later. I write out these instructions for whomever gets the dish. Everyone loves gifts of pre-made, homemade meals.
Another excellent title from the Chronicle Cookbook Series
"Food has the power to heal, to comfort, and to convey care and affection" -From the foreword by Joyce Goldstein
Julia della Croce's savory Minestrone Romano Soup to soothe a friend under the weather. Marion Cunningham's hearty Tamale Pie for a family with a newborn. Beth Hensperger's delectable Cinnamon Rolls with Irish Cream Glaze to welcome the new neighbors.
In times of transition and change, there's nothing more satisfying than delightful gifts of homemade food. Cook'n From Our House to Yours brings together over 90 recipes from respected
cookbook authors and chefs for portable comfort food that's easy to make and even easier to share.
Benefiting Meals on Wheels of San Francisco, it also includes tips on preparing ahead of time, transporting, and reheating. Dedicated to spreading cheer, From Our House to Yours is a delicious opportunity to feel good and do good at the same time.
Joyce Goldstein, chef, author, and teacher, is an acknowledged expert on both Jewish and Mediterranean cooking, as revealed in such books as Enoteca (0-8118-2825-5) and her unprecedented exploration of Jewish cuisine from the diaspora begun in Cucina Ebra Meals on Wheels of San Francisco delivers hot meals, as well as nutrition counseling and social services, to 1,500 homebound seniors every day of the year. E.J. Armstrong s photographs have appeared in magazines such as Travel & Leisure and many books, including The Perfect Match (0-8118-2918-9). She lives in Seattle.