I grew up in a large family and was fortunate to have had a mother who was a wonderful cook. She seldom ever measured anything and, if she did, she had a tea cup that served as her measuring cup for many years. We learned to measure salt, soda, etc, in the palm of our hands and I still do that often.
The recipes which were handed down seldom had any directions or methods of mixing; most times oven temperatures were just listed as hot, moderate or slow. I have since written instructions to the recipes from my mother and grandmother so that future generations will know just how to prepare that recipe. One of my favorite recipes is one that was from my great-grandmother and mother always made those tarts at Christmastime. All I have to do is think of them and memories of childhood days come flooding back.
From time to time, I will include a recipe here and most will be from old books, friends from days gone by and clippings from newspapers or magazines from years ago. Times have changed with the addition of so many convenience foods and helpful tools. Still, I love the old recipes where I can make something from “scratch” and watch my husband’s face light up.
You can shape bread dough, cookie dough and even pie dough into a work of art. You can change an existing recipe and make it your own and you can modernize an old recipe by incorporating new mixes or sauces into it.
Get out a recipe, the ingredients and start your journey into this fascinating world. It is fun, productive and it will please the many who sample your works.
cookinnana 