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At some point, an idea popped into my head. It was cold and blustery outside and I was craving the trappings of a homecooked meal. I did like to cook when I had the chance, which wasn’t often. There was something incredibly therapeutic about preparing a hearty meal. I left the work on the computer and went to the kitchen. I was craving stew. The kind of stew that stuck to your ribs and made you nice and sleepy.
The morning sun streamed through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow on the shiny countertops. I rolled up my sleeves, relishing the freedom of working from home. With the nanny out running a few errands for me, I had taken it upon myself to don the apron and take charge of the dinner prep for the night. After all, what was a little extra multitasking among friends?
I grabbed the meat from the fridge and started slicing it into bite-sized pieces with practiced precision. The rhythmic thud of the knife against the cutting board provided a delightful soundtrack to my culinary symphony. As I worked, I couldn’t help but imagine the rich flavors melding together, creating a savory masterpiece that would warm both body and soul.
Next came the vegetables—a vibrant medley of carrots, onions, and celery. I relished the vibrant colors as I diced each ingredient, savoring the anticipation of the flavors to come. Lily hated cooked carrots, but if I diced them small enough, she could choke them down.
My cooking skills were developed at a young age. I was often left to my own devices. I took care of Izzy quite a bit when our parents were working or traveling, doing whatever they did. I liked making comfort food. I set a large, heavy-bottomed pot over the flame, the metallic clang echoing through the kitchen as I did. A drizzle of olive oil hit the pot, sizzling and spreading a delightful aroma. I added the beef, allowing it to sear and brown, coaxing out its deep, caramelized flavors.
The symphony of sizzling intensified as I added the onions, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. I inhaled the smell. There was something about onions and meat cooking that made a house feel like a home. I liked to cook just because I liked the way the house smelled. The carrots and celery followed suit, transforming the pot into a veritable cornucopia of aromas. The savory dance continued as I sprinkled in a medley of herbs and spices, each one adding its own unique note to the symphony of flavors.
I poured the beef broth over the meat and veggies and put the lid on. My work was done. I left the pot on the stove and headed back to my office ready to dig into the boring reading material. The simple act of preparing a meal had provided a welcome respite from my usual responsibilities.
I heard Lily’s little feet running down the hall and glanced at the time. “Damn,” I murmured.
Time had gotten away from me. I got up and rubbed my eyes before heading to the kitchen. Lily and Dee were unpacking a couple of bags. “Hello, ladies,” I said as I walked into the kitchen.
“You’ve been busy,” Dee said.
“Working?”
She nodded at the stove. “What are you cooking? It smells amazing.”
“Just a beef stew,” I said.
“Are there carrots in it?” Lily asked.
“You need vegetables,” I told her.
She groaned. “I hate carrots.”
“They are small,” I said. “You need to eat some. You can pick out the rest.”
“Are you going to stay for dinner?” Lily asked Dee.
“Oh no.” She smiled. “You and your dad have a nice dinner ahead of you.”
“Stay,” I insisted.
“I don’t want to intrude.”
“You’re not intruding. You want to try my stew. It’s good.”
“Stay!” Lily said.
“I’ll stay.” Dee smiled.
“I’ve got a little more work to do,” I told her. “Dinner will be ready in about an hour.”
“Should I make anything to go with it?” Dee asked.
I shook my head. “No, just some bread if you want. I’ve got everything else covered.”
Dee nodded and started to unpack the rest of the groceries. I turned back to the stove and stirred the stew, breathing in the savory aroma. Cooking always made me feel relaxed, like I was in control of something. It was a nice change from my usual chaotic schedule at work.
As I added in the final seasonings, Dee came over to stand beside me. “Can I help with anything?” she asked.
“Nope, I’ll be back in a bit,” I replied.
