May 22, 2020
I’ve met some great people in my community. When I was working and commuting, I did not have time to appreciate those that were right next door… so to speak. During sheltering in place, I am discovering many blessings in my community.
Through some friends, I learned of their mutual friends that are offering FaceBook Live Indian Comfort Food cooking on Friday nights. They use the following hashtags: #quarantinecooking #foodislove #cometogether #cooktogether #keepingbusy #stayingconnected #indiancomfortfood
Tonight was my first night. The dish was Chicken Palak! The event forced me to leave my home; which I do not do. I had to get chicken and a couple spices I did not have. I ventured out to my favorite Middle Eastern market. Even needing to wear a mask and keep hands clean, going out is a sense of empowerment. And for the extrovert in me; it does a soul good to see and interact with other humans.
Once home I gathered all the ingredients and some of the tools I would need; such as a cutting board, knife, food processor, pans. I knew a couple people but the hosts and many others were people I have not yet met in person. Still, there was a lovely camaraderie as we were led step by step to create this savory chicken and spinach dish. Lots of chopping, lots of simmering, lots of patience. Ingredients included chicken, spinach, ghee, cloves, cardamom pods, onions, garlic, ginger root, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, garam masala powder, black pepper, salt, tomatoes.
So Much Goodness!
The photo shows my steps toward deliciousness. Even through a FaceBook Live… I felt like I was in community!
Tonight’s prayer is an English translation for a prayer called Bhojan Mantra.
Before we take our food, We pause to think, For what purpose should we nurture and protect our body. O God, grant us this prayer, for which I bow with respect at your feet, that my body, mind and wealth be put to use in the service of Universal Dharma.
Let us protect each other. Let us eat together. Let us work together. Let us study together to be bright and successful. Let us not hate each other.
Let there be peace, peace and peace!
May it be so…
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