We have been enjoying a rainy end to the month here in Michigan, a cozy kind of rain that carries with it the promise of green, of growth. I'm glad for the promise, because all around the house there are giant, old old trees and once-healthy myrtle, now looking...not well. We've had the plant doctor here and just seems there's not much to do but wait and hope they bounce back. Sounds a lot like the grieving process to me, one I've experienced but also am seeing around me in friends and family a good bit lately. In the midst of that I was asked: what comfort dishes do I like to make to share when taking to friends in need?
"Expect to have hope rekindled. Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways. The dry seasons in life do not last. The spring rains will come again."
So this week's "menu" offers ideas for meals that I find easiest to pack up and give, and are so well-received. These also are favorites right at home of course, because they feed a group or work as divine leftovers throughout the week.
All-time favorite. Comfort food of the highest order because this chicken-and-rice is simple to make and huge on savory flavor. Also: economical and easy to expand to a huge batch (if giving this, make some for you, too). Beloved by everyone from the oldest to the youngest at the table.
Lubieh, yah'neh, this is a hearty stew that does a beautiful thing with green beans and beef or lamb (or chicken, as Dan's mom did), seasoned with cinnamon. Serve or send along with a bowl of Lebanese rice to soak up the thick tomato broth.
This soup-stew is big on flavor with lots of onions, Lebanese couscous (the largest in the couscous family), caraway, and pieces of tender chicken. Find the couscous here.
Garlic butter glazed Talami bread. This is a loaf of light, ethereal love! Anyone who has ever eaten this bread remembers. Last week a neighbor told me her daughters are still talking about the warm loaf I baked for them when her husband passed away (two years ago...).
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