HOME & GARDEN CONSUMER GUIDE

A Meal to Remember

Old-fashioned cooking versus quick, fast food that meets the requirements of today's busy life-style, but ... Schedules are hectic, families are pulled apart with to-do lists and school, community, and business functions as well as a fast-paced environment that does not tolerate slackers and is not programmed to allow "taking the time" to enjoy and dream.

It wasn't always this way - modern technology was supposed to help us make better use of our shrinking time frames and give us that much needed R and R that bonded families, friends, and neighborhoods.

However, innovations and lifestyles changed rapidly and left many wonderful aspects of life behind in the dust. One of these was good, ol'fashioned cooking. No, not wrapped in paper, stuffed in a bag, and pushed at you through your car window. It was the lingering aroma of fresh baked bread, the spice of cinnamon and nutmeg greeting you at the door, and sauces and gravies that just caressed your taste buds. It was "real" potato mashed potatoes and pies that brought out the child in you - you know, the desire to pick up that plate and make sure you got every smidgeon of delight.

While we cannot go back in time, we can schedule meals that allow "old fashioned" to step into the limelight. This Holiday Season we can give a wonderful, loving gift - the gift of more baked goods, fancier feasts, and yes, there is a drawback - your family may just enjoy it so much that going back to drive-up windows and paper-wrapped offerings may bring a bit of reluctance. A true gift - taking the time to make something "from scratch". Letting yeast breads rise and grow into fine-textured rolls and loaves that absorb butter like a sponge, soups and chowders that simmered for hours allowing the spices and ingredients to bond together and create aromas that excite appetites.

From dramatic desserts to fork-tender cuts of meat -whatever you choose to make - schedule a week-end or an evening to cook a complete meal from scratch, without any fast foods or convenience helpers. Have small children at home - what an educational experience as you measure, add, stir, toss, and enjoy each other's company.

Invite grandma over and have her add "a pinch of this" and "you have to taste it to get it right." Pearls of wisdom that cannot be found at any hot dog stands or hamburger heaven. So, give a gift that will be well-received and long remembered - your time to make an old-fashioned meal, with all the trimmings.

Arleen Kaptur - Author of books and articles on living a simple, rustic lifestyle - and getting the most from each and every day. Websites: http://www.arleenssite.com