Sorry about that;) Life has been uber-crazy over the last two months. I haven't had the mental capacity to take pictures or do any writing. I'm trying to get back at it though, and while I don't have any pictures I have lots of ideas to share!
Lent is wrapping up right now for many, it is only beginning for Orthodox Christians. We have a far more strict practice than many others too. To follow the Great Fast strictly, we are to be essentially vegan, though we are allowed shellfish. According to the strictest traditions, there are even days we are not supposed to use oil for cooking. However, the strictest version of this practice is generally expected only of monks and nuns.
For the most part, those of us with families will try to go without meat throughout the Great Fast. Well, that is what my family and I have as a goal anyway. What I try to do, as far as shopping and cooking goes, is to avoid purchasing and cooking with meat products. I've included here a sample menu from the last couple of days.
Potato pancakes (platki)
- I can't share this recipe because I didn't get it until I married into my husband's family
Sauerkraut and noodles
- Boil kluski or other egg noodles, drain, and add some sauerkraut. Mix together with some melted butter and serve.
Polish Cucumber Salad
- Salt sliced cucumbers and sliced onions, stir and let sit for at least 10-15 minutes. Drizzle with oil and stir gently. Add some white vinegar (a lot of you are like me), and stir gently again. Chop and add some fresh dill, check the salad's seasoning and salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with a plate of fresh veggies (radishes and green onions work perfectly) and maybe some brick cheese or rye bread with cream cheese.
Oranges and some dark chocolate make for an absolutely perfect dessert here, and believe me, you don't even miss the meat!
