What’s your favorite thing to cook?
So my Mum was Greek, born on Zakinthos with many sisters and brothers.
One of my favourite Aunties was Helena. Her moussaka was out of this world! It helps when you make your own olive oil, grow your own aubergines and all the ingredients of course.
It’s a labour of love. There’s loads of prep to do. No short cuts available. And anyway, you wouldn’t want to spoil the end result by thinking there are.
I lived in Cyprus for a year and entertained many friends from different lands. Some of them were locals, Greek origin born in Cyprus.
Well one day I invited a couple round and I knew she had a reputation as a good cook. In Greece, that’s real kudos!
So, being me, I decided to do 3 courses. Tatziki starter, moussaka main course and a shop made baklava (I’m in Cyprus, everyone does that!).
Long story short, I asked her what she thought of my moussaka. “9 out of 10” she replied. Hesitated, then looked at me directly and said “who am I kidding, 10 out of 10!”
That’s when we opened another bottle of Retsina. And there was much rejoicing!
I’ve made it since for friends and family and it’s always satisfying to do something that brings a smile and adds to the enjoyment of any occasion.
I love cooking even though I came to it late. My 1st wife was a brilliant cook. Legendary dinners and puddings (English for the sweet course. We’re ordinary people and glad for it) that were praised by all and sundry.
When she died after 2 years fighting cancer, I suddenly realised I had to cook! Yikes. It gave me a focus fighting the grief so I was grateful but I had no idea I’d be any good at it!
So whatever you’re good at, keep trying to make it the best you can. It’s good for you, your friends and loved ones will also be glad you did!
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