I spoke about doing this project for many years and it's finally a reality. I wanted to pass along to my family and friends some of the recipes they've always enjoyed and/or requested of me.
Yes, you read correctly... I started off with desserts, why not?
As you will gather from these recipes, I love the whole essence of food. It means so much more than nutrition. Cooking has always been a wonderful, creative, relaxing and therapeutic experience. I know some people feel it's something they have to do every day to survive. But for me, it means creating and being able to share my creations with people I love.
Some people enjoy the smell of burning incense in their home, I enjoy the aromas of sautéed garlic, onions, and tomato sauce. What could possibly be better? Well... always the smell and taste of CHOCOLATE! (Sorry, no chocolate recipes here, that's a whole other BOOK).
I hate to cook for people I don't love; that would be a chore. I enjoy the whole process of planning a meal or dessert, preparing it, setting the mood, and sitting around with my friends and family communicating and sharing our lives.
I just love watching peoples faces and moods change as they enjoy their meal or dessert. I think both my siblings feel the same way.
This book was also a way to put together recipes that were passed on to me from my parents and my friends. Of course, as you will see, I also stole some recipes. But with good intentions....
I hope this cookbook brings back some happy memories for all of you as a lot of these recipes brought back to me. There are so many more but not enough time.
So grab a box of SMARTIES, sit down and enjoy.
Happy cooking,
ARETI*