Sunday, December 5, 2010

The Smell of Home...


This week I've been in a little bit of a funk. I think I've been a little homesick for CA, my mom, my nephew, decent shopping, etc. It's annoying how those moments of melancholy creep up on you.

I wanted to do something different with our meals, so I made Mexican rice--a staple in my home growing up--for the first time in about 20 years. It turned out OK, but not as flavorful as I would've liked. It tasted better the next day and with some added salt.

Today I made a second batch of Mexican rice. I used a shallower, but wider pot, more onion, and made it early enough so that it could sit even after it was cooked. It was better! Posting a picture of it on Facebook elicited all sorts of responses and suggestions from friends. There are a million and one ways to tweak the recipe.

And in an attempt to do something different, I wanted to try albondigas (Mexican meatballs) soup. I found a great recipe online, (click HERE for the recipe,) ran to the store to get the things I was missing, and did it. I knew it would be a success because I was making it in my grandma's pot. Anything made in that pot is going to turn out good because she was an amazing cook.

I was so happy that it turned out great! Eric got a great dinner and I got a good sense of satisfaction and a kitchen full of childhood aromas. They are comforting smells that made me feel less homesick. And now we have enough to last 2-3 more meals. Yum!

4 comments:

Karen said...

Sounds yummy! Why don't you fly out here and cook it for my family this week? =)

And hang in there - I remember when we first moved to NC years ago. Within the span of a week, I quit my job and became a full-time mom, and we moved clear across the country where I had no car and zero friends. It was definitely an adjustment (understatement), and it took awhile before I felt like I kinda found myself again.

Kristie said...

If I could twitch my nose and visit you in NC, Karen, I would! Happily, I'm out of my funk and have my mojo back. Thanks for the uplifting words!

Sally said...

The soup looks amazing! Don't worry about getting any Mexican rice tips from me because I have never been able to make good Mexican rice. I don't even try anymore. I wish I could taste yours!

I'm always in a funk about not being in Taiwan. Especially in the winter. I wish I had the knack of just enjoying my life completely no matter where I'm at.

Kristie said...

Thanks, Sal! Sometime just knowing that what you're going through isn't just you makes it easier. =)