Comfort food means something different to everyone. Who hasn’t turned to cake in a time of sadness, or felt the joy a favorite dish can bring?
If you’re like me, you might’ve spent the last few years getting more acquainted with the kitchen — perhaps baking sourdough and banana breads, or testing the capabilities of a Dutch oven. But after all the elaborate meals I’ve tried, there is no better balm than a parent’s home cooking. For an upcoming Mother’s Day feature, The Globe and Mail wants to hear your stories behind a favourite dish made by your mom or other caregiver that you still love today.
A photo of halwa, made by Alisha's mom.The Globe and Mail
Halwa, an Indian dessert that soothes my soul at any time of the day, brings back sweet memories of family celebrations. Every year on my birthday, my mom would wake up early to make a fresh pot of halwa. The smell of the thick, crumbly pudding wafted through our house like a bear hug. If I could bottle the smell of halwa into a candle, I would.
Typically made during religious holidays, halwa is often served while praying for one another’s health and happiness. It’s usually made with just four ingredients: water, sugar, ghee and flour. My mom’s secret? Adding semolina and chickpea flour. Over the years, I’ve played around with garnishes and can’t resist sprinkling halwa without a mix of pistachios and almonds on top. This dessert is practically made for stay-inside days: my favourite kind.
If you’d like to share a story about a beloved dish from childhood, fill out the form below and send us a photo of the dish by emailing audience@globeandmail.com. Please include “Mother’s Day dish” in the subject line with your name. Responses accompanied by a photo will be prioritized.
Sign up for The Globe’s arts and lifestyle newsletters for more news, columns and advice in your inbox.