Back to the Basics

I have had enough.  It's time to get excited about cooking again.  Since the little one was born, we have been getting take-out at least twice a week, and on the nights that I cook, it is pretty much the same thing week after week.  This weekend, in an attempt to reignite my excitement for food, I spent some time checking out cookbooks at the library.  I also paid a visit to the farmers market to stock up on ingredients.

I am craving nourishing, whole foods, and every recipe that I was drawn to emphasized this.  I don't want anything fancy, just good, wholesome basics.  My body is telling me what it needs. So, this weekend, armed with a renewed excitement and a host of interesting recipes, I began cooking again.  Really cooking.

On Saturday, I made an incredible chicken in the slow cooker, and using the bones, made my own stock, with carrots, onions, celery and spices.  It was so rich and flavorful.  It tastes so real...so healthy.  With the stock, and leftover chicken, I made a spicy tortilla soup, chock full of veggies.  For dessert, a pan of homemade cookies, filled with oats, nuts and good chocolate. On Sunday night, I made ground lamb kabobs.  The lamb was straight from the farm, and it was so tender and fresh.  I served it with locally made yogurt, flavored with diced garlic.

Right now, as I write this, I am snacking on roasted chickpeas, seasoned with a variety of Indian spices.  For dessert, a gorgeous macaroon, bought at the farmers market at the recommendation of a trusted foodie friend.

I feel nourished, and filled with excitement at the thought of summer, and the bounty it will bring.  My renewed commitment to good home cooking will also soon be enjoyed by my little one.  I am excited to make his foods- and what better time to start solids then at the beginning of the growing season.  Oh...are his little taste buds in for a treat!