11 Comments
founding

Loved the history and visuals -- your writing is always a delight. And everyone knows about that family member and their blunt kitchen knife, haha!

Expand full comment

this was a wonderful read.

the thanksgiving plate looks amazing. i always keep the cheap cans of campbells turkey or chicken gravy on hand in case it's one of those weird times the turkey doesn't produce much in the way of drippings, or if the gravy runs low. i just add some homemade chicken or turkey stock to thin it out, a little dijon, and whatever seasonings. doctored gravy is still absolutely great gravy!

also, i heard you on npr the other day! i sat in my car to hear the whole thing. it was awesome. you and the interviewer (sorry i cannot ever remember anyone's dang names!) sounded so relaxed and like you really enjoyed the convo, as did i.

Expand full comment

I wonder if there is a link? I'd love to listen!

Expand full comment

i found it!

https://www.npr.org/2022/11/17/1137354500/lionel-messis-last-world-cup-plus-a-diasporican-thanksgiving

illyanna’s segment starts at about the 22 minute mark 🙂

Expand full comment

yay! thanks so much!

Expand full comment

I definitely find myself doctoring things up. I also tend to use what I have on hand as well. The whole salami history was mind blowing! I didn't realize SF was known for salami haha. Thanks for sharing!

Expand full comment

Such a cozy read! I felt like I was right there with you in the kitchen. :)

I love the universal truth of moms who just go full on mad scientist with their doctoring up. My mom is a consistently great cook yet I can't help but laugh when she presents something she made to the table with a list of "I didn't haves" or a preface of "something went wrong this time" before we eat it lol. I'm such a live or die by the recipe gal, but my mom comes up with so many great things with what she just has lying around (like your beans and carrots dish, yum!).

Expand full comment

Loved reading this newsletter. Learned about the history of salami! And your Thanksgiving meal looked so delicious and comforting.

Expand full comment

Only you could make string beans, carrots and almonds a mouth watering delight.

Expand full comment

...inferno of demise.

I ❤️ this so much. 😆

Expand full comment

Im sitting in the corner of our dry storage on two boxes of 35# oil, enjoying my family meal and STILL had my mouth water reading your post! I have nostalgic memories of eating certain dishes my Mom made but I always find myself tryna make it more my own or dare I say, better? I’ve had few successful times and others i realize not to mess with the Original!!

Expand full comment