Gifts

A hand extends a cup of tea or coffee purchased with me in mind. A box unexpectedly arrives on my desk, filled with chocolates from Davos, Switzerland hand carried by a willing intermediary, from a dear friend continent’s away... just for me.  

When I receive a gift of food I feel so… blessed. There simply isn’t any other word for it. 

Today, I received, a gift of mamool. My friend (and kindred little brother) Mohammed asked his mother to bake me these delicious treat to take to my family as I journey to the U.S. Although I haven’t met her, I strongly suspect Mohammed’s mother is one of those beautiful women who works exquisitely with her hands to create and preserve the ancient recipes that is part of her heritage. I am so honored that she baked these goodies just for me!

Throughout the Middle East this stuffed cookie appears again and again in all its variations: round date, oblong walnut and pistachio all sifted over with powdered sugar and scored along the delicate cookie shell – some even dipped in chocolate. At first I had store bought mass produced mamool. But one day, Mohammed’s mother sent him to office with some of her creations. 

As with everything homemade, I could taste the care. A cross between a shortening and butter cookie formed into a hearty and generous mound of a cookie. Taking the marmool in hand it gives with slight pressure of the fingertips. Breaking the cookie for me is always essential. I ruin my own sense of surprise and I attempt to discover what lies inside. Not too sweet, a paste of dates, pistachios or walnuts infused with cinnamon and anise awaits. This mamool is true treat especially as it comes from the kitchen of one mother to one who is missing her mother.

Food is a gift isn’t it? Even if its a mundane “get it on the table 30-minute meal”, the recipient is cared for, a basic need is tended and if the gift is sweet, its receipt is accompanied with a heartfelt thank you and a lingering smile. 

At Live Well, Victoria and I believe in presenting food as a gift. From our kitchens to the table just for you.