When I first saw the topic of this week’s Carnival of Beauty was “comfort food” I did not intend to submit a post. The reason I initially recoiled at this particular topic was the suggestion of posting a recipe to share. I do not like to cook nor am I any good at cooking, so it’s better that I not share any of my “recipes” (experiments). However, the topic made me think of my Grandmother who passed away recently, so I decided to write something in honor of her.
My Grandmother was a wonderful cook. Growing up we did not live terribly close to my Grandparents, but we did visit at Thanksgiving and Christmas when we were able to enjoy the wonderful meals my Grandmother would prepare. She never made anything terribly fancy, but it was delicious. And she made it all look easy. As someone who doesn’t cook well, I have really come to appreciate her cooking talents.
But it’s not really all about the food. It’s about the love behind the food. My Grandmother was a very family-oriented person who enjoyed showing her love through keeping her family well-fed. Being at my Grandparents house was like a never-ending feast, but there was also a very special quality to the food that I just can’t describe. You really could almost taste the love.
Of course, my Grandmother had many special qualities that I appreciate and remember her by. But it’s her cooking that I remember most fondly, maybe because of my own deficiency in that area. Unfortunately though, I never got any of her recipes. I did however find a recipe online for something she made at our holiday dinners so that will have to do. It’s not exactly comfort food, but it was simple enough that I was able to remember.
Pistachio Jello Salad:
1 (3 oz.) pkg. pistachio instant pudding
1 (8 oz.) container cool whip
1 large can crushed pineapple, with juice
1/2 cup chopped nuts
Mix together dry pudding mix and pineapple; fold in cool whip. Add nuts and stir. Must set 4 hours before serving.
I think this is one of the few things I actually helped make – four ingredients mixed together is just my speed. What can you say. It's easy, it's green-good for potlucks.
My Grandmother was a great woman, completely devoted to her family and very well-loved. While I may never be able to cook as well from her, I can still model her character in other ways. What will my grandchildren say about me? That’s something I need to work on.
4 comments:
It is wonderful to have had a grandmother like you had. I had one (she was terrific cook as well) on my mothers side. She raised 5 children and did it on a minimal budget. But you could just feel the love coming from her. I remember spending many Summers at her place...
Thank you for bringing back some memories...
Great post.
Like you, I found myself remembering the few recipes I was able to 'help' my grandmothers prepare. Why is it that those are my favorites? The love that was shared then, like you said! WIth one grandmother it was cheese straws (a southern thing), and with the other a chocolate meringue pie you couldn't believe. You've made me wonder if i should try these recipes. Never have before, since I dont' cook much, but it would be a nice thing to do in their honor.
I have a grandmother who is similar to yours. I don't share her love or skill of cooking but she is certainly good at it.
Thank you for sharing your grandmother with us. ((HUGS))
One grandmother didn't cook, the other cooked to beat the band and wouldn't let me in the kitchen while she was doing it!
What a special memory for you, Carrie! And I bet you can't eat that jello salad without thinking of her, can you?
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