Today…from the kitchen

Shompa called in ill this morning. She and her entire family have the flu…parents, in-laws, husband, and kids, all living together…all taken ill. I’m so grateful to work with Shompa, she invited her cousin Arna to fill in for her first thing this morning. This is the second time Arna has joined us in the kitchen and created the wonderful roast chicken meal with mixed vegetables and pulao that Shompa had planned…Arna is so helpful in the kitchen! This was the first time we’re serving authentic Bangladeshi Roast Chicken…let us know how you liked it!

Dave created his favorite meal, Batenjein Ablama served with Makmoora and Fattoush Salad, a Lebanese dish. Dave, a professional chef with a peaceful demeanor, recently spent time in the middle east and has plans to return soon to live there for a season! It was fun listening to Dave and Asmait speaking Arabic…Dave is learning Arabic and Asmait is fluent, having lived there for many years (after departing her native Ethiopia and before arriving in Boston).

Asmait, created another middle-eastern extravaganza! She made Degage Mushekel served with Kudra (mixed vegetables) and rice. I had the opportunity to try the Degage Mushekel…and it is amazing!! Asmait is very knowledgeable in the kitchen having been a professional cook for many years while living in the middle east.

I LOVE being able to work with people who are passionate about food, their own food traditions, and inviting others to experience their food and culture. And yes, while that is my hope for Peace Dinners…I was reminded of the absolute truth of that sentiment today in the kitchen.