November Cozy Traditions

Hearty recipes steeped in tradition

Fall Is Steeped in Family Traditions

As I look forward to going home to visit family for Thanksgiving, I am salivating thinking about our traditional Thanksgiving Meal. There is something comforting about things remaining the same and having that to look forward to each year.

I did not grow up in a home where my family played football on Thanksgiving Day, and I did envy my friends who did. My household was a bit more formal. But I grew to love our own traditions — mainly food-related.

When asked what November means to me or what comes to mind when I think of this month, so many wonderful images pop up in my mind. Gratitude, warmth, candlelight and fires, comfort, love, and joy are the sentiments that come to mind mainly because I think of family and friends. I spend more time indoors beginning in November, which gives me more time to look at photographs, talk with loved ones, and reminisce great memories.

Diwali, The Festival of Lights

Diwali is the traditional Hindi Festival of Lights. I love to celebrate this ancient tradition each year. This year, the five-day festival begins on November 12th, and the main celebration is three days in, so the 15th. Diwali is associated with happiness, prosperity, and warmth.

It represents the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. It also means knowledge conquering ignorance. There is deep meaning in this beautiful celebration.

On the third day, people are encouraged to light oil lamps or candles to illuminate their homes. These lights represent our inner spiritual light and guidance and also celebrate and honor one another.

Lighting so many candles and participating in this celebration with friends by preparing a nice feast makes my heart and soul so happy.

Sweaters, Tea, & Cozy Blankets November is also a time for comfort and coziness. I do not drink hot tea during the summer, but on cool afternoons or evenings, I love a mug of hot ginger or peppermint tea while snuggled up in my cozy blanket on the couch, reading a good book. I love rotating my wardrobe and the comfort of my soft cashmere sweater.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love the spirit of Christmas, too, but with gift giving it gets overwhelming and expensive. Thanksgiving is all about spending time with family and eating — two things I enjoy. There is such a laid-back, relaxed vibe about it.

I will be staying at my mom’s with my daughter this year since we are both coming in from out of town. But my sister’s family, my son, and my brother will all join us in the early afternoon. We will have light appetizers, drinks, and boisterous conversations. A roaring fire in the oversized fireplace, and the volume will escalate on the television as the guys try to catch the football score amongst the varied conversations taking place and likely a game or two of Password or Mexican Train.

My family has had the same meal for as long as I can remember on each holiday. We are crazy about our food traditions. We might add a side dish from time to time, but lord knows you do not dare mention replacing a dish, or someone’s nose will be out of place. Each dish is delish.

The Menu

Broccoli Casserole Mashed Potatoes Sweet Potato Casserole Stuffing (We call dressing) Cranberry Salad Homemade Rolls Turkey & Gravy (Organic turkey breast) Green Beans Apple Pie Pecan Pie

Final Thoughts

Even though I now live in Arizona, and the temperature change is not as drastic as it was in Ohio, I can still feel the chill in the air at night and in the morning. There is a crispness during the day. The nights are longer. There is still a noticeable season change, and I am grateful for that. Although my kids roll their eyes when I say that because I still enjoy my time in the pool each afternoon. — the perk of living in the Sonoran Desert.

I have started to crave heartier foods, such as Tortellini Soup, Stuffed Acorn Squash, Vegetarian Pot Pie, and Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Brown Butter Sage and Walnuts. I will enjoy these foods throughout the winter before returning to lighter foods again in the spring.

I made my Stuffed Acorn Squash the other night. Did you know you can eat the skin and all? It is so healthy and delicious. Acorn squash has more carotenoids than any other food, which is an antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory. It is very low in fat, but it does have Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for our brain health. First, I bake the squash with a little mushroom-flavored olive oil, salt, and brown sugar — salty sweet for forty-five minutes at 425 degrees. I stuffed mine with herbed stuffing, sauteed onion & celery, chopped pear & apple, and toasted walnuts. Then, I baked the stuffed squash until the stuffing was slightly crisp. Each half serves two people.

Thank you for taking the time to read. What are your favorite fall recipes? Please comment and share your thoughts.

Peace & Light, Libby

This was inspired by David Fertitta’s lovely Story of memorable lasagna and the gift his mom and grandmother imparted to the family of cooking with love. It got me thinking about how many meals my mom and grandmothers have so lovingly prepared, and now they pass the torch onto me and my daughter.