Growing up, my family always went to my grandparents’ house for holiday meals. When we got there, my mom, my sister, and I would sit in the kitchen with my grandma while she cooked and pitch in whenever she would allow. Usually my dad, grandpa, and uncles would sit in the living room, watch sports on the television and, every now and again, ask how the meal was coming along. When all of the food was ready, my grandma always asked me to go let everyone know it was time to come and eat. This was an important role in my family not only because, as Italians, food was the centerpiece of our holidays, but because it involved yelling the phrase “vieni mangiare” as loud as possible to make sure my grandpa, who was hard of hearing and not very good with English, knew it was time to eat. I was always nervous to say it correctly (just like now I’m nervous that I’m not spelling it correctly!) but it usually produced great excitement so I kept at it!
Today I found myself yelling, “vieni mangiare”, to Eric when I finished cooking my grandma’s homemade pasta sauce and meatballs. A few times each year, I get ambitious enough to take on the task and I’m always brought back to the days of sitting in my grandma’s kitchen in anticipation of a great meal. The mostaccioli and sauce – sprinkled with just a bit of romano cheese – is definitely a comfort food and a great treat for me. This time I made enough for an army so we’ll be comforted all week long…
