Recipes of Happiness. Diary of an Eastern Culinary Expert

My grandmother used to say that cooking is an opportunity to share love and happiness. When she poured honey syrup over baklava, she would whisper: "May the fate of all those whose heartache exceeds sweetness change for the better." When she sprinkled thyme over hot bulgur pilaf, she would close her eyes and continue: "May this thyme bring peace to those who have lost it." Food brings happiness only when it is prepared with the soul. This daily and, at first glance, ordinary process is an additional chance for each of us to feel the true taste of life.