This Holiday Season
Family Traditions
Reimagining
As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to honor tradition, yet find ways to make the tradition resonate with you and your family.
By Vicki Martinez
Over the centuries, the kitchen has been a gathering place for young and old. It’s the heart of homes around the world, where stories are recounted or learned for the first time. It’s where childhood memories are made, where special meals are prepared for family and friends, and where many family traditions are born.
The first step to reimagining a tradition is to know what the tradition is.
Tradition: “A custom or belief that is passed down through the generations or that is done time after time or year after year.”
There’s something beautiful about the old ways. But there’s nothing wrong with reimagining a tradition to make it more healthy, simpler to create or just more fun in the kitchen.
Remake: “To make again or anew, creating a new version from an older one.”
MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Traditions evolve over time. Whether using new devices or experimenting with different spices, changing a family tradition for the better helps it stand the test of time. No matter if you’re ready for a complete tradition overhaul or simply looking for a small tweak, here are a few suggestions:
- Add your family’s favorites, keeping one or two dishes from the usual menu. Ditch the rest.
- Experiment with substitutions to give old recipes a healthier spin.
- If you’ve always been responsible for preparing the family meal, it’s okay to make it easier on yourself. Invite family and friends over the day before for a day of prep together. Enjoy some laughter and some wine so you can relax more the next day.
Of course, if cooking together has never been a part of your traditional celebration, why not start now?
Here’s a recipe to get you started: A pinch of old and a smidge of new; a dash of tradition and a sprinkle of reinvention; mix thoroughly; enjoy!
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