Tahini
Annie & Alison Newsletter #11
I spent a lot time trying to think of what to say in this section of today’s newsletter. I searched my brain for a witty story, a moment of inspiration, a lesson I’m learning. Even a quality joke would do! I wrote the beginnings to at least six newsletters, only to realize that I couldn’t write more than a few sentences about any given topic. Some of my subjects included discus throwing, sun burns, and driving through Iowa farmland in the spring.
The well, as they say, was dry.
Dear, readers. Today, I have nothing more for you than a list of surprisingly delicious reviewed recipes. And when I say “surprising,” I really mean it — I didn’t expect to like half of them, but instead, enjoyed all of them.
Lamb Stew with Fennel, Preserved Lemon, and Crispy Fried Bread
Chocolate-Tahini Tart with Crunchy Salt (my favorite Alison dessert so far!)
64 recipes cooked, 161 to go.
During this week of cooking…
I learned… that trout isn’t half bad! Especially when cooked with buttery sourdough breadcrumbs on top. And I never thought tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds) could belong in a dessert. Oh boy, was I wrong.
I watched… a Netflix documentary about the world’s largest art heist called, “This is a Robbery.” I love a good who-done-it mystery, especially when narrated by folks with thick Boston accents.
I listened to… Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Once you start listening to this audiobook series, can you – can anyone – stop? (No.)
I read… some powerful essays about adjusting to motherhood, written by my friend Amy Bornman. With honesty and openness, Amy discusses the way motherhood impacts personal identity and the journey of pursuing meaningful work while caring for a tiny, dependent human. Her writing contains perhaps the most rich and complex descriptions of becoming a parent that I have ever read. (You can find her motherhood essays here.) Amy is also a poet and sewist. Her first book of poetry was published this past December. It’s called There is a Future, and you should really consider getting a copy, especially if you’re into pursuing the creative imagination n’ stuff. Amy also founded All Well Workshop, a creative sewing studio that sells hackable sewing patterns. Really cool!
(Alright, shameless friend-plug over.)
I hope your wells are filled with good things this week. And mine, too.
xo,
Annie
