The Altar

None of us cooks alone, even when we are alone. These are some of the people who’ve inspired me in the kitchen, whose presence is never very far when I cook or eat. Some of them I knew and loved, some I just read or watched. I always thought if I had a restaurant I’d have a shelf for their photos and books, the kind of altars that many cultures — Chinese, Vietnamese, Hindu — have to honor the kitchen gods, give thanks and keep the ancestors happy. 

In these homes, a kitchen altar might feature a photo of a loved one, a candle, a food offering. I don’t have a shelf built in to our kitchen where we honor the people whose love of food inspired us. But, hey, I’ve got a web site.

If there’s someone you want me to post on the altar, please send me an email with a photo and a few words about the person who watches over you in the kitchen.