Heaven in a pot

During the week, it's an even bet who will prepare any particular meal, or what that meal might turn out to be. But Shabbat in our house is fairly predictable from a culinary point of view. Zahava is generally in charge of the side dishes (kugels, salads, etc.), chulent (a special stew that is put up Friday afternoon and served with Saturday lunch) and dessert(s), while I usually am in charge of the main courses (chicken, roasts, ribs, etc.).

Of course, Zahava and I occasionally ‘mix things up’ and try new recipes (OK, Zahava more than I), but we generally stick to time-tested dishes that we know will come out well, and that everybody loves.

This past Friday night, though, Zahava broke with tradition (ours at least) and prepared the entire dinner… in one pot.

That’s right, in honor of the Boston Red Sox victory in the American League Championship Series she made the ultimate sacrifice and made me my favorite meal… a gesture made even more magnanimous because it is something she absolutely loathes:

New England boiled dinner

Basically, this is a big ol’ hunk of corned beef, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, onions and seasoning, all boiled up in a big pot of water until soft and yummy!

In 13 years of marriage, Zahava has made this meal for me less than 10 times… now that I think about it, maybe less than 5. It is a testament to her love for me that she has made it at all since she hates everything (the texture, color, and taste) about this lowbrow repast… but for me, there is no more comforting meal.

Forget the Yankees… forget the curse… forget every other reason one might have for being happy about the Red Sox victory… the real reason for celebration landed on the dinner table Friday night!!!

I know I’m probably pushing my luck, but maybe if the Red Sox win the World Series I’ll get lucky next Friday night, too!