When I was a kid, our church hosted homemade dinners every month. The tasty smells would fill the air and draw people in. I looked forward to those meals, especially the meatballs, mashed potatoes with gravy, and the sweet frosted cake.
Think about the gatherings you attend—weddings, birthdays, or even game days. Food is always there, creating a special atmosphere. Just think how strange Thanksgiving would be without a feast.
March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is “Food Connects Us.” Sharing food goes beyond meals; it symbolizes togetherness and cultural traditions. For people of Scandinavian descent like me, coffee breaks are often accompanied by something sweet—this tradition is known as fika in Sweden. Similarly, the Danish word "hygge" refers to cozy moments spent together, often over delicious snacks. In the Netherlands, they use the term "gezellig" for warm gatherings, whether around a family dinner or at the pub.
Eating together isn’t just about filling our stomachs; it also nourishes our connections. Studies have shown that sharing meals can boost mental health and encourage better eating habits. For instance, a 2022 survey found that 71% of people felt happier when they shared meals with family or friends.
As we dive into nutrition this month, why not set a goal for yourself? It could be as simple as adding a piece of fruit to your daily snacks or ensuring half your grains are whole grains. Think about what food group you neglect. Are you getting enough vegetables? Or perhaps it’s time to incorporate beans into your meals a couple of times a week.
You might also inspire connections by sharing your family recipes. The “Exploring North Dakota Foodways” publications offer insights into how to tweak traditional recipes for healthier eating. Experimenting with new cuisines can be a fun way to bond with others. Why not gather friends to cook Indian curry or Italian pasta together?
Here’s a unique chocolate cake recipe from a community church cookbook that uses mayonnaise instead of eggs, creating a moist treat perfect for sharing over coffee or tea.
Chocolate Cake (with a Secret Ingredient)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- Powdered sugar for topping
- Mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, and cocoa together.
- Beat the water and mayonnaise, then mix with the dry ingredients.
- Pour into a 9×11-inch cake pan and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
This cake yields about 24 servings, each with approximately 150 calories. It’s perfect for sharing and enjoying with loved ones, adding to the connection that food creates.
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Home and Garden,PrairieFare: Connect with food during National Nutrition Month
