Dearborn, Country Cooking, and a Recipe

September 05, 2012

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the north branches of MCPL. We traveled around Platte and Clay Counties, stopping at every one. Some branches were majestic; others were tiny. One branch (Woodneath) hadn’t even been built yet!

Lunch was in Dearborn at this little place called Cook’s Corner Café. Wow! I grew up in the country, and boy, do I miss country cooking! For less than $10, I got Chicken Fried Steak, 3 sides (green beans, mashed potatoes & gravy, and applesauce), a roll, and PIE! All this good food sparked conversation about homemade meals. I make my own spaghetti sauce, just like my mom and grandpa used to make. If you want in on my secret, I use the plainest sauce or tomato paste I can find. Dinner for two consists of a can of tomato paste mixed with various spices. Mix the paste with water until it is the consistency you like. After that, add some spices!

Most of these measurements are approximate because I flavor to taste, but here’s what I add:
1 tsp Garlic Powder
½ tsp Onion Salt
1 tsp Parsley
½ tsp Basil – I use sweet basil, but if you prefer traditional, it works just as well
½ tsp Oregano
1 pinch of Rosemary & Thyme
1 pinch of Sugar – the sugar brings out the full flavor of the sauce, just as chocolate enhances coffee
Finally, as the sauce is mixing and simmering, I like to add a couple of teaspoons of shredded parmesan cheese. After that melts, I add it to my pasta. Tasty!

So, if you are so inclined, investigate country cooking or making sauces, because the Library is a great place to find new kitchen adventures!

Dan B.
Red Bridge Branch