Timeless Traditions - Christmas Cookbook 2021

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2021 2 Evan Dixon/Features Writer A S THE windmoves across the top of mountains and hill- sides, and the dancing trees sway back and forth as if they are following the choreography of the cool breeze, we know it’s starting to feel a lot like Christmas. The holiday stirs up feelings of nostalgic bliss as we relive memo- ries of hearty laughs and satisfying bellyfuls, surrounded by loved ones who truly make it the most wonder- ful time of the year. The feeling of togetherness is pervasive, and fam- ily and friends gather to spend time with one another in the spirit of love, joy, peace and goodwill. However, equally as pervasive is the aroma of traditional Christmas dishes escaping from the kitchens of mothers and grandmothers, such as baked ham, curried goat, and oxtail mixed in with the familiar fragrance of sorrel and fruitcake for dessert. The Gleaner ’s Christmas Cookbook is an annual end-of- year compilation of dishes that can add novelty and decadence to any Christmas spread. This year’s Cookbook is a reminder that despite having to contend with the uninvited guest that is COVID-19, the spirit of Christmas still stands strong in Jamaica. No doubt we will still need to abide by all existing Disaster Risk Management protocols, but there will be no social distancing between anyone and a packed plate of all their Christmastime favourites. Hopeful ly, The Gleaner ’s Christmas Cookbook can help you find a new favourite, and something that will become a must-have at your dinner table every Christmas. Happy holidays. ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR A BELLYFUL THE GLEANER’S CHRISTMAS COOKBOOK |