Cooking all at once...

annie1992

13 years ago

When it rains, it pours, I guess. The new boss decided we needed a potluck tomorrow and so I agreed to bring a quiche and a pan of lasagna. He's making shrimp and grits, so we've just hit two of my....um....favorites. (grin) No damage to my diet so far.....

Amanda just got a job, working 3rd shift at a local assisted living facility as a CNA, and I have Friday off, so I'd agreed to take the kids overnight and we'd go to lunch the next day and that we'd make Ann T's cream cheese danish for them to take to the "other Grandma's" for Easter breakfast.

That was just before I got the phone call that Aunt LulaBelle passed away on Monday. She was a force of nature and they did a lovely obituary about how she loved gardening and canning and playing with her Grandkids. All true, they just didn't mention that she did it all with a glass of Canadian Mist in one hand and a cigarette in the other, and she outlived her fifth husband. She lived life at full speed and left on her own terms, so it's all good. She was 76, my Dad's sister, and there's only one sibling left, my Aunt Ellen. Anyway, I need to make scalloped potatoes for the funeral luncheon.

Oh, and did I mention that I'm cooking Easter dinner?

Is this just me, or does everyone have lives that just go crazy in spurts, and do you cook for all of them?

and LindaC, how many potatotes would you peel for scalloped potatoes for 50?

Annie

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Comments (32)

jessicavanderhoff
13 years ago
I shudder to think. . . I think I peeled 10 pounds for 15 of us. I think I might just leave the peels on!!
seagrass_gw Cape Cod
13 years ago
Makes me tired just reading about it, Annie. I'm sorry you lost your aunt. Lately I feel like I'm tethered to the kitchen. If I'm not cooking, I'm planning, shopping or cleaning up. AND it's just 2 of us. When warm weather comes we eat simpler foods. Looking forward to those days...

seagrass
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I've been a long time Garden Web member but have not visited here before. I live in Southern Missouri now. But we've lived all over the world. England, Washington DC..and more. I like to keep a comfort meal in the freezer. If I travel leaving my husband alone I prepare enough that he can treat himself every few days by taking out just one pan and heating in the oven or microwave. He likes it so much he'd just live on it but that wouldn't be the best idea. The frozen meal consists of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and Mac n Cheese. By making sure they all touch sides in the freezer package it helps keep them moist and avoid any freezer burn/drying out. I make a meatloaf of quality meat (whatever you like, Turkey, Lean Ground Pork etc. But for us I use a quality ground beef)and adding, for our taste, finely chopped mushrooms, onion, fresh garlic or powder, drained canned tomatoes chopped very small or crushed, oatmeal soaked in the tomato juice rather than using breading. Eggs if you like. I like to mix the eggs in the oatmeal while it's soaking up the tomato juice drained off the canned tomatoes. This holds the loaf together nicely. Just use similar portions to your favorite meatloaf recipe. I season liberally..whatever appeals at the time. Seasoning salt, celery salt, white pepper, italian herbs seasoning, different things as my mood calls for or what is at hand in the pantry at the time. Before baking I scoop a furrow about 2" w and at least an inch deep down the length of the top of the meatloaf and fill it with spicy ketchup and sprinkle brown sugar over that. Be sure to let a little of the brown sugar drift from the ketchup to the top of the meatloaf. Bake. The tanginess of the ketchup and brown sugar are a great taste treat with this particular meal. You could freeze the meatloaf whole for a large family. But slice it before freezing. Here's the comfort meal package: For a smaller family like us, just two, I slice the meatloaf, packaging meal size portions for the freezer in a disposable pan or cake pan. If you want the meatloaf to stay moist in the freezer you can spread a little fresh ketchup over the entire piece. (Gravy will keep it moist too.) The ketchup on the top will have caramelized with the brown sugar so it will stay on the meatloaf when you cut a slice and lay it on it's side. Or if your meatloaf isn't tall just cut a chunk and set it upright in the pan and spread a little extra ketchup on the side that's up to make sure it stays moist. You can freeze this meal for quite a long time..but it won't last that long. :-) Then I make mashed potatoes, place a meal size portion beside the meatloaf in the pan and be sure they are covered with a thin coating of gravy. A well in the center will hold enough gravy for a portion, and you just spread a thin layer of the gravy over the entire potato portion to keep them moist in the freezer. I make homemade mac and cheese and add another meal size single portion. This is the reason this is not an every day meal and is called a comfort meal. Since you are going to heat this in a microwave or hot oven the pasta is not going to deteriorate as it would reboiling it. All he has to do is make a small fresh salad or steam some broccoli and he's done. I plan the portions of potatoes and mac small enough so that he'll think he needs a large portion of broccoli or salad to "make ends meet". :-) That way I don't feel so bad for feeding him too starches in a single meal. I know it's not for everyday. But it's such a comforting meal. I think it must be one of his favorite treats. I had to be away for five weeks years ago, so I left enough of these for about three or four meals per week. Most of them went to his office for lunches. I have to tell you the other men were begging and bragging on his wife and he didn't feel nearly as abandoned as he might have. Starchy as it is, it's far better than hamburgers or pizza every night. And really, if you portion it out wisely it's not worse than one large helping of either potatoes or pasta. And they think they are getting away with something! And when I am not away from home it's nice knowing there is comfort meal an arm's reach away. There are those times when comforting with food (and no work) blesses a gal too. The ketchup and brown sugar idea were my great-aunt Ellen's idea. I have never tasted better meatloaf than this. Another thing she added to the meatloaf was breakfast sausage like Owens or Jimmy Deans. You cannot believe how good. But who needs the fat?
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lpinkmountain
13 years ago
Four words for your posse Annie . . . I Need Some Help! Use them!!!!
and another three words I'm trying to take to heart, "Less Is More."
bunnyman
13 years ago
Sounds like LulaBelle was a special woman.
ann_t
13 years ago
Annie, I'm sorry about your aunt. Sounds like she enjoyed life to the fullest.

But I have to tell you, it sounds like you are slacking off to me. This just seems like a slow day/week in your life. LOL!

Ann
lindac
13 years ago
AW! Annie....it does seem to happen all at once doesn't it...?
Funeral meal scalloped potatoes...5 pounds of potatoes feeds 25 to 30 easily.....so 10 pounds will do it with leftovers....unless that will be the only thing served.
Condolences on the loss of the sassy aunt!
Linda C
doucanoe
13 years ago
So sorry to hear of your loss, Annie. She sounds like a really fun gal. I don't smoke, but wouldn't mind going out with a glass of red wine in my hand! LOL

You certainly have a lot on your plate, as usual! Personally, I would leave the peels on the potatoes, too. I rarely peel potatoes, I like the peels on.

Linda
annie1992
Original Author
13 years ago
Ann T, did I mention that the first calf of the season was born last night, in the middle of a hail storm? And that it's a bull, so at some point in the next few days, it needs to become a steer? (grin)

Thankfully David was there and carried the poor little guy into the barn, where he and the Bossy Cow are enjoying some peace and quiet and a bale of really good second cutting hay...

LindaC, there will be ham and fried chicken, bread and baked beans and cold salads and, if I know my family, a raft of desserts. And coffee. Lots and lots of hot, black, strong coffee. so 10 pounds of potatoes should be enough? I think that'll pretty much fill that big 18 quart Nesco roaster.

I told my cousin Becky last night that I'd sneak a thermos full of cranberry juice and limoncello along, and we'd have a toast to Aunt LulaBelle (actually her nickname was Midge and that's what nearly everyone called her), she'd be glad to know we were drinking in her honor. We hired a bagpiper to play "Amazing Grace" at the funeral, she'd get a charge out of that.

Seagrass, I've felt tethered to the kitchen too, mostly with wedding food, I guess I should be glad that this is something different. And of course, the Grandkids always make it more fun!

L, I can tell you that I just ditched about 3 items from Easter dinner, though.

Michael/Lyra, she was something all right, you'd have loved her. All 5 feet and 85 red-headed pounds of her...

I'm going to miss her, and it seems that I'm very quickly becoming a member of the "oldest generation" on Dad's side of the family, which I don't like much at all.

Annie
annie1992
Original Author
13 years ago
Linda, I think you're right, the potatoes very well could just stay unpeeled. Especially if the store has some red ones. Scrub 'em and run 'em though the slicer on the kitchen Aid that Arlene so kindly sent me, that'd the the way to do it, I think.

So, you coming to the wedding? You're more than welcome, you know. Oh crap, that reminds me, I haven't even posted an invitation here....yet. I will, I will, I promise.

Annie
rob333 (zone 7b)
13 years ago
I am so sorry Annie! Hugs to you. You can do it. I think I would get help on peeling 10 pounds of poatoes. I adore your tribute to your aunt you obviously love.

Do I have to cook in spurts? I seem to have gotten out of this duty after the past two years of slim finances. But yes, it does all seem to come at one time. Right now, I haven't cooked in weeks, been sick with allergy crud. I miss food, but I won't ask you to cook for me.

:)
annie1992
Original Author
13 years ago
rob, come on up. I'm cooking. And cooking. And cooking, LOL...

Yeah, I loved her, she was.....unique. And a treasure trove of information and family history, recipes and gardening tips. I'll miss her.

Annie
mustangs81
13 years ago
Baby bulls to funerals--you better slow down girl! WOW.

My grandmother, whose name was Lula too, sounds very much like your aunt including the husbands. Just switch the "gardening and canning" to "hunting and fishing" and you have my grandma.

Take care of yourself!
claire_de_luna
13 years ago
Oh! Just to share...my grandmother was Lulu Mae. It must have been a popular name!

Annie, if anyone can pull it off, I've no doubt it's you. I'll raise a glass of 80 proof to your Aunt, and think of you in your kitchen!
nancylouise5me
13 years ago
Annie, very sorry to read of your favorite Aunt's passing. She sounds like she was a real pipper! Ahhh come on. What's a little thing like cooking for the luncheon to someone who is cooking for a whole weddding! I have every confidence that you can handle it with bells on. LOL Take care and ask for help if you need it. NancyLouise
annie1992
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks for the vote of confidence, everyone. I think Lula must have been a very popular name in that generation, I know a couple more besides my Aunt.

NancyLouise, it's not just the funeral cooking, it's the funeral cooking in the middle of the wedding cooking, with a side trip of cooking for the potluck and Easter. All of a sudden I just started feeling a little.....overcooked, LOL.

A deep breath and a list of what needed to be done and when, and I'm all good to go. It'll all work fine, as long as I stay organized and nothing else happens...

Annie
wizardnm
13 years ago
Annie, I have nothing to add. Just want to send my condolences.

Nancy
lpinkmountain
13 years ago
So sorry about the loss of your aunt. I too hate that I'm becoming the oldster generation, and the passing of the keepers of my history.

As for the potluck, bring a frozen lasagne like that thread from a couple of days ago, or order one from a restaurant, or make one without preboiling the noodles and use store bought sauce. Sometimes ya gotta do what ya gotta do. I made quiche last week in about ten minutes, using frozen spinach, dehydrated onions and store bought crust. It was very yummy!

Another option would be to make ricotta muffins instead of the danish, they are yum and will be appreciated too. But I know for you making bread type things are a snap.
nancyofnc
13 years ago
Shoot - I think I am related to LulaBelle (my confirmation name was Clarabelle - such a hoot). Hardest thing in the world was to have to go outside to smoke - like behind the barn at 17, 25, 35, 47, 51, 60, 72, 99. Quit at 60 but we'll see. My grands do not know anyone who smokes, 'cept me, the decadent warrior renegade hippie from SF / LA grandma. But, every single person they know (even below 15) drinks something alcoholic - everyday. Hmmm.

I truly think that later generations need a LuLuBelle/Midge for considerations and to be able to make choices for themselves.

Nancy
lsr2002
13 years ago
Annie, I'm sorry you and your family lost Aunt LulaBelle; she sounds feisty, independent and wonderful - all traits I'm sure she passed on.

Apart from that, your week sounds like most of your weeks to me. But I'm sorry you have these other distraction when the wedding is so close. You are more than capable, amazing in fact - but I would also hope that you listen to Laurie's second suggestion and consider seriously that less can be more. Of course, I'm not sure you can do that because sometimes some is good but more is better! I know you'll work it out.

Lee
Islay_Corbel
13 years ago
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. She sounded wonderful!
beachlily z9a
13 years ago
Annie, I would have loved to have met your Aunt! Somehow, I think a know someone who inherited a bunch of that spunk, but not her glass. Yep, you will miss her!

I'm so sorry I can't help you cook! Take care of yourself, Annie.
cookie8
13 years ago
I will wish you good luck for the weekend. Sounds busy! My weekend no longer seems so busy. Sorry about your aunt, btw.
BeverlyAL
13 years ago
I'm so sorry you lost your aunt Annie. She sounds like someone I would have liked. I've only two aunts left so I'm fast becoming the next generation too and it sure don't sound like fun. It's far better than the alternative though.

I second leaving those skins on the potatoes. I do that quiet frequently with hot potato dishes in order to save time. My mother thought that was low class and she would methodically try to get them out of her helping. LOL

Good luck Annie! I have no doubt you can do it.

Beverly
Solsthumper
13 years ago
AB, my life has never been crazy in spurts. Rather, it's been an ongoing whirlwind of crazy. I pick myself up, dust myself off and keep going with the same ol' rituals. And I have complete confidence in you to do the same.

My sincere condolences to you and your family, for the loss of aunt Lulabelle. A genuine ball of fire, whose spirit the angels will welcome with an all-ablaze jamboree as lively as she was.

Sol
kathleenca
13 years ago
I also want to give you condolences and warm thoughts, Annie.

I can't believe how busy you will be this week - I hope you have helpers. On the potatoes, remember the rule of thumb for a 1/4 lb per person, plus another lb or two if you want leftovers. That ratio has helped me out many times when I've been studying recipes.

Take care, and best wishes,
Kathleen
pkramer60
13 years ago
Aww, Annie, I just saw this. A big hug to you and I have a bottle for toasting Aunt Midge in May. Heck, I might just bring two! She reminds me of the bumper sticker about a life well lived....where you go WEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! at the end.

And you are her neice/blood. A red headed ball of fire, a true compliment from the heart.

Love and hugs,

Peppi and Dad
shaun
13 years ago
Annie I'm sorry for your loss. Xoxo
lakemayor
13 years ago
Annie, So sorry to hear about your Aunt. She does sound like she was fun and full of life.

You are amazing Annie with what you accomplish. You are an inspiration to me!

Karen
lakeguy35
13 years ago
Annie, sorry to hear about your Aunt. I'll raise a glass and clink to her right now. My sympathy to you and all of the family. Sounds like she was a great and fun lady that did it her way. You know, dynamite comes in small packages.

Congrats on the new bull soon to be a steer. A small town just northeast of me host the largest calf fry festival in the country. The Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo takes place at the the same time. Yes, I've tried them but they are not at the top of my favorite list. : )

My life in general has been one wild ride since last fall. So yes, it comes in spurts but this last ride has been more like a main water line break. Lots of cooking, traveling, and company. I'm ready for normal... whatever that might be. : )

David
caliloo
13 years ago
Annie I am so sorry for your loss, she sounds like a fantastic lady! Good luck with all the cooking and take a little time for yourself - even if it is just a few minutes leaning on a fence and watching Copenhagen pull the first few blades of spring grass........

Hang in there!

Alexa
chase_gw
13 years ago
So sorry to hear about your Aunt Annie. I had a Great Aunt just like that. My Nana always frowned at the antics of her little sister but Aunt Ethel was way more fun than Nana!

Good luck with the cooking.........I'm feeling a bit cooked out myself this weekend but the smiles and the yums make it all worthwhile.
lisa-in-me
13 years ago
Awww, Annie, seems like everything does happen all at the same time. I'm sorry for your loss though, your aunt sounds like she was quite a character.

I don't know how many potatoes to recommend for the scalloped potatoes but I'm sure they'll be delicious. Hugs to you and your family.

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