The folks at the South Philly Food Co-op started the holiday season a little early this year with our first fundraiser at the South Philly Tap Room. We all had a wonderful time meeting members from the community and enjoyed the opportunity to talk about what we've been up to and next steps. Thanks to everyone that came out to support us!
Now, on to the food . . .
Today feels like a good day to share some favorite holiday food traditions. Large or small, every family has their own special way to celebrate the season. A particular favorite in my family is all about the snacks on Christmas Eve. Growing up, we would load our plates with cheese, crackers, shrimp cocktail, and whatever special goodies Mom came up with to delight us; we'd watch Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed in Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life" and enjoy the company of family. As time moves on, situations change and traditions evolve. We're pickier with our cheese selection now and have switched out the shrimp cocktail for oysters . . . still delicious (even more so I might say), but I look back very fondly on our simple beginnings.
The holiday season is also about remembering loved one who are no longer with us. In my case it is Grandma and her baking. Simple but classic . . .
Christmas Butter Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt