Food for thought

What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth & touched your soul?

This is a difficult topic. I like food, but depending on circumstances, it is good or better.

Take birthday cake, for instance- if it's your birthday, it is usually great no matter what, and the more cake you eat, the longer you live. I would say that birthday cake touched my soul, contributing to my longevity in some way. But  the cakes are forgettable, as they mush together in a lifetime of cakes  for all occasions.

Amy's dinners, found in your local supermarket's frozen food department, was another delightful treat this year. The spiced Indian meals palek paneer, or lasagna, became a tasty addition to the weekly table adding variety without hard time in the kitchen. Did it touch my soul? I don't think so.

Now, for the real deal... vegetable stew with plenty of squash, carrots and other tasty items, topped off with a dollop of plain yogurt. Add a slice of cheese, some crusty bread and a salad, finally crowned with a group a friends whom you have known for years in conversation and laughter, and of course chocolate cake with chocolate mousse frosting... that becomes an unforgettable meal. This happened tonight.

It is not the food that matters, but rather the community built around the meal. It is the sharing of fun and ideas. It is what comes out of your mouth around the table that makes it possible for what goes into your mouth to touch your soul.