Food has always been a big part of my life and not just because I like to eat. I come from a long line of talented and devoted cooks, people that created meals that go beyond something that just nourishes you. My maternal grandparents prided themselves on home grown, home cooked meals long before that was the trendy thing to do. For them it was just a way of life. The recipes were shared with friends and passed down to the family. So needless to say when my brothers and I were growing up dinner was quite an affair. Our table was usually filled with extended family, friends, and on occasion a stranger that someone had befriended along their travels. Sunday dinners were a place to share a meal and were certain to contain a good story or two.
Growing up with so many good cooks at hand, my interest in cooking revolved around the eating dinner part. I watched them cook, I helped when asked, and I ate when it was served. There was no way to know that someday this would drastically change.
Unexpectedly, within a two year span, my world was rocked to it's core when I began to lose those who nourished me both literally and figuratively. First with the sudden death of my grandmother Bette. Then, losing my mother Patti to a long battle with cancer. Then, finally the loss of my grandfather (Papa), Don. As my brothers and their families sought to stay connected during this difficult time we turned to the only way we knew how, "Sunday Dinners". With little experience and a pile of family recipes, this new chapter in my life transformed me in more ways then one.
My wife says I cook to stay connected to those we've lost, which may be true. All I know, is cooking on Sundays with my family turned on something inside me and cooking good food for good people became a passion. My mom always said that when we were growing up she couldn't afford to buy us all the things she wanted to but she could cook us our favorite dishes. When you change your purpose of cooking from making the meal to sharing something special with others, your cooking takes on an all new meaning and your food is never the same.
Forward ahead to three years ago, where I found myself in the best job in the world as a fire fighter. As is stereotypical, you would expect my love of cooking to fit right in at the firehouse. Working with great cooks and feeding guys who love to eat, I cherish the challenges that cooking at the firehouse brings. Whether it's cooking on a budget, learning to make new dishes out of left overs, having to pause the meal while we go on a call, or making sure that I don't cook anything that I'll get hazed for later are obstacles that have helped shape my skills and keep my constantly learning new things.
I don't believe its merely a coincidence that firefighters are known for their cooking. The fire service is seeping with tradition and camaraderie. Sitting around a dinner table and sharing a meal together is a tradition that many of us have long since abandoned and yet it's the best way to connect with family and friends. The brothers in a firehouse are a family by definition and sitting around sharing good food with good people is one of the greatest gifts.
Through my blog I will share my family recipes that I have adapted at the firehouse, as well as tips and suggestions about how to find your way back to the table.
