We wish and pray for peace and happiness, especially during this week of Christmas. I learned at an early age that when large groups gather around the table, people tend to be the happiest when they like the food. We have our favorite entrees such as Beef Wellington, a classic rib roast, a Christmas goose with prune stuffing, an orange marmalade marinated whole chicken or Osso Buco but it’s the comforting consist side dishes to bring the accolades, too. “I am so glad you made that.” “Mom, don’t forget to make my favorite…” Traditions are consistentent and with all of our rapid pace changes, table consistencies have never been more important. Celebrate the joy of the season and the joy of family this week. May you find that little gesture of consistency that makes the gathered group happy.  Merry Christmas!  © Kelly McBride Loft
Kelly’s Individual Scalloped Potato Charlottes
Par-boil peeled and sliced red new potatoes. Butter a ramekin per person. Trim green beans to be even in length and set the green beans vertical to line the edge of the ramekins. In a measuring cup, heat 1 cup of whole milk. Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of flour until dissolved. In each ramekin, layer the par-boiled potatoes with sliced Cheddar cheese, a dash of black pepper and a small dash of kosher salt. Create a middle layer of shredded carrots. Pour on the milk mixture; but, don’t let it overflow. Top the ramekins with Cheddar cheese. Heat thoroughly and serve each happy guest an individual ramekin! © Kelly McBride Loft