What’s your favorite TLC meal? A “to-go” recipe to make for a loved one who needs a little extra support. I’ve been thinking about this lately, thanks Zahra Tangora new memoir, extra sauceabout her life of “great food and great love.” “Cooking is a very powerful way to care for someone,” she told me. “In an increasingly technological world, cooking is an ‘analog’ language of love.” Below, Zahra and eight other food writers share the dishes they’re delivering to their loved ones.
Zahra Tangorachef and author extra sauce
“lasagna This is something I always make when someone loses a parent, has a baby, or just needs a little more warmth. It’s a simple and hearty meal, but when you layer the pasta, sauce, and cheese, it feels like it’s layering a simple and heartfelt message. I care about you. Personally, I lose my appetite when I’m grieving or getting over a breakup. But the lasagna is solid. You can easily reheat it by storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. ”
Eric Kimauthor of korean american And the upcoming Spaghetti Junction
“Vegetable-packed pasta salads are my go-to TLC meal. When I cook for friends in need, I try to do three things: 1) something that can be eaten cold or at room temperature, 2) something that requires a lot of vegetable preparation and knife handling, which is often the most time-consuming part of the meal, and 3) something that doesn’t take up a lot of refrigerator space. I love it. This pasta salad recipe isContains plenty of crunchy vegetables. ”
Melisa Denizelli Orleylighter dream dinner guest
“There’s something comforting about leaving a moist cake on the counter for a few days, because you can go back and slice it and eat it if you want. I keep it there (and it’s easy to transport) for both celebrations and hard times. butter orange tahini recipe For me, a spoonful of tahini is pure comfort. Topped with whipped cream and orange zest for a fun little twist. ”
alex beggsFood Writer, CoJ Contributor
“I often find that loved ones who have had or are expecting a baby are far from my kitchen, and I mail them a box of cheese. Zingerman’s. (My picks: Brabander Goat Gouda, Cabot Crossbound Cheddar, Artisanal Manchego). Who wouldn’t want a box of cheese? A doctor should prescribe it. ”
Ella Kutnerjournalist, author stick to the best
“I like to bring delicious food.” and Something sweet. I aim for recipes that have a long freezer shelf life in case I have food already packed. On the savory side, I make the green mac and cheese in my book on a sheet pan (which I also like) This one (from Sumiton Kitchen). For something sweet, make me double the amount malt cookie dough chocolate chunk barsYou can store it forever in the freezer, so it will never lose its taste. ”
caitlin tier Big Salad Newsletter Editor
“My thesis is that quiche is the perfect meal for anyone convalescing, grieving, or postpartum because it’s suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Quiche is also a dish that almost anyone can make, especially if you start with a ready-made crust. Here’s my recipe without a recipe: Grease a pie pan and transfer the crust (I bought one) Trader Joe’s frozen 2 pack). I pre-cook the filling, starting with sautéed onions and garlic, then add my veggie combo (I usually add frozen peas and broccoli, and chopped spinach). Whisk 8 to 10 eggs with milk and season with salt and pepper. Fill puff pastry with vegetables, pour in egg and top with shredded cheese or crumbled feta cheese. Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until eggs are firm and dough is golden brown. end! “
clancy millerauthor of cook alone and for culture
“Quick answer: cookies. I usually make chocolate chip (classic). ginger molasses cookiesis a favorite among my friends. ”
melina hammer, author and the writer Catbird Cottage Story
“Grain salads are perfect for this situation. this is my personal favoriteBut the best thing about grain salads is their easy versatility. Do you prefer brown rice to wheat berries? No problem. Just use similar elements when assembling your dish, adding something earthy (grains), something tangy (like red onions), and something juicy and crunchy like radishes, nuts, and herbs to create a crowd-pleaser. Finish with salty crumbled feta and creamy avocado for a nutritious feast. ”
Kelsey Miller, Cup of Jo Senior Editor
“The food I bring is Scottish flapjacks. I especially love making this for new parents because it’s delicious, hearty, and easy to eat with one hand. I also like to make a batch of homemade granola. I actually made this myself the week before my daughter was born (#nesting). It helped during those early wild weeks. My husband and I scooped up a cup in the middle of the night to snack on while breastfeeding. I use this.” this recipe As a starting point, try using mixins. ”
Do you have a favorite food to “take home” for your loved one? And congratulations Zahra about her new memoirwhich inspired this post!
PS It’s helpful to bring along a large pot of self-serve baked beans or hot soup. How to write a letter of condolence.
(Top photo courtesy: Curated Lifestyle/Unsplash)
Source: Cup of Jo – cupofjo.com
