I wrote up so many drafts of my post election reflections but couldn’t get myself to publish any of them. I’ve just been obsessively consuming news and commentary from my Facebook feed, calling my local representatives for the first time, trying out this thing called civic engagement after getting over all the stages of grief. So many of my peers and associates are disillusioned with our country men. Could not perceive so many would vote for someone with such horrible character. Fearful of the spike in hate crimes. Frustrated that a majority vote in the Popular Vote is not enough to win office.
My father in law put it succinctly this weekend: leaders reflect the societal health of a nation. Until we address the economic, xenophobic, racist and sexist challenges embedded in our culture, we have little hope for a more inclusive, progressive government.
Despite our losses, we have a holiday coming up. And while contemplating the origins is depressing, the opportunity to gather with loved ones is something I cherish. Here’s a roundup of the dishes I plan to include in the spread on Thursday. It’s always a combination of Bengali and American dishes so that there’s a little something for everyone:
Butternut Squash Soup
I adapt this recipe by adding a cup of half and half, and some crumbled sage leaves fried in extra virgin olive oil.
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Pomegranate
Mashed Potatoes Two Ways
One with chili and mustard, the other with butter and half and half
Khichuri or Rice and Mung Bean Pilaf
Cornbread
Photo courtesy of Sally’s Baking Addiction
Kale Caesar
Photo courtesy of Jason Lee and Devon Knight, NY Times
Cranberry Relish
Swiss Chard and Mushroom Strata or Bread Pudding
An adaptation of the NY Times recipe for Kale & Mushroom Bread Pudding
Two Organic Roasted Turkeys
One with citrus and herbs, one with spices. I will try a dry brine this year and roast at a lower temperature (350) for 2-2 1/2 hours or as long as necessary
Cranberry Apple Cake
Ina Garten’s Easy Cranberry and Apple Cake for Easy Desserts as seen on Food Network’s Barefoot Contessa.
Sweet Potato Bars
Photo courtesy of Ethan Calabrese.
Pumpkin Pie – also courtesy of my sweet sister in law
