I have always cherished family and I love having a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. That is why I feel so strongly about the importance of passing down family recipes. For me, I feel a part of that person is still with me and by making a recipe that they passed down, I feel their presence, even if they are no longer alive.
Both my grandmothers passed away when I was entering my teen years and I still remember their cooking and their recipes. They weren’t big on writing down recipes because they didn’t have to measure. They just knew by taste how much of “this or that” was needed. I have tried to emulate their recipes by asking both my mom and dad to tell me how grandma fixed a certain dish. My parents have confessed that I have come pretty close to their mothers’ cooking. That was quite a compliment because my grandmothers could throw down in the kitchen. They made it all look so effortless and their memories were impeccable to make the same dish taste the very same every single time.
Now that I am an adult, I started a recipe journal that I keep all of my favorite dishes in so that I can someday pass them on to my kids, grandkids and so on. I love traditions and I plan on making several copies that are leather bound to be handed down to my sister and cousins while I’m still alive. Eventually, we will all start having our own kids and I will tuck some away for them too.
When a good recipe is replicated by someone you love or had the opportunity to love during their lifetime, it allows you to reminisce and feel nostalgic about that moment in time. I have an impeccable memory and have always had a love affair with food. I still don’t trust myself to re-create the same recipe like my grandmothers did if I do not write it down.
A good meal brings a family together for a time to bond and appreciate each other’s company. And, if the food is out of this world delicious, people will usually linger a while longer just to have another plate or take leftovers home. I always make a dessert of some kind when I host my friends and family. Dessert alone, is worth the extra wait. And who doesn’t love a good slice of cake, pie or cobbler. More recipes for the family to enjoy currently and many years to come.
I truly hope that the importance of passing down family recipes resonates with you and your family members too. They can be great business ventures. Who knew grandma’s pound cake or grand dad’s homemade chili would be a big hit? What an incredible way to honor a treasured family member who is missed by all. The long lines at the door will be the indicator that the dish is definitely worth the wait and you have your beloved family member to thank for your growing bank account. Try this: The next time you make a dish that is a family favorite, write it down and pass it on. Enjoy!