I had the great pleasure of preparing a four course Thai meal for some friends last evening. The menu:
Thai cucumber, red pepper, and mint salad
Satay chicken breast and portobello mushroom caps with peanut dipping sauce
Tom Yum Goong
Panang curry (both beef and shrimp) over jasmine rice
I think it was well-received, except for the occasional chunk of Thai chile upon the unsuspecting palate of certain guests (really, we needed to finish off that half-and-half anyway).
I was reminded of how much I enjoy crafting a meal with and for those I care about. Working side-by-side in the kitchen, smiling, laughing, and enjoying the aroma of the dishes as they waft around us, tugging at our appetites and urging a blush into our cheeks (ok, maybe the wine was responsible for that). Leisurely feasting upon the fruits of our creative labor as we bask in each others company. Food lovingly prepared and gratefully shared. Nourishment indeed.
Oh, and thank you to whomever did the dishes while I was sleeping.
