Collectively all over the globe we start to ponder the holiday season.
Should you have a moment in this hectic time, to look back a few centuries, several of the customs we’ve come to associate with Christmas actually evolved from pagan traditions celebrating the winter solstice. The Pagan origins come from the idea of bringing the evergreen into the house to represent fertility and new life in the darkness of winter. It borrows from the pagan holiday called Yule, which Europeans observed during the winter solstice as a way of ringing in the new year and the promise of its crops.
What a beautiful acknowledgment it is to commemorate the abundance nature brings, then with the harvest of the season to our table.
Whether you celebrate the winter solstice, or the birth of Christ, it is a time of re-rebirth gratitude, and celebration; What better way to salute this auspicious time than with the gift of food. There is something alluring about the universality of a language and an entire culture that comes from the belly rather than the brain.
In this very literal way Christmas is about food…
As families come together to exchange gifts, and gather around the table, the holidays are also a perfect time to celebrate good tidings and the many blessings of the past year.
Let the stream of culinary adventures flow, with the pure love of cooking, and giving, however humble or grand. Bake some cookies, wrap them in parchment paper, tied with twine, and a twig of rosemary or pin. For this will surely bring a smile of joy.
To Your Good Health
A Holiday Healthy Indulgence ~ Grain-Free Gingersnap Cookies
If you are a curious cook, join me on my Podcast ~ A taste for All Seasons ~
It is a cooking, cultural, and inspirational way for us to explore the world of food. And… as always, l will share a seasonal recipe, cooking tips, and kitchen essentials that will make your life easier in the kitchen.
You can now listen to all the shows, @ laurierichardone.com/podcast or on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast.
We talk to local farmers, where you can learn how to cook your way through the seasons. This Podcast is in conjunction with WPVM FM 103.7 in Asheville, NC.
Laurie Richardone is a seasonal gluten free chef and certified health coach.
To work with Laurie, visit LaurieRichardone.com