There was an old cream and brown collapsible stool that would rest next to the cellar door in my grandmother’s kitchen. The kitchen itself was no more than ten by five. Enough room for a stove, sink, and a little counter space. But that was where we learn to love food. I respect the fact that it is a little “Norman Rockwell” to picture a young boy standing on a step stool next to a white-hair woman watching as she mixed or mashed or stirred, but that is the truth.

Our grandmother doesn’t have any secrets ingredients. Her food is simple, but then maybe that’s her secret. She doesn’t over think, overcook, or pile on complex flavors. She simply cooks old world, home-style dishes (that’s German/Amish for our family, for those that are wondering). And while she did teach us how to make these meals, she also taught us probably the most important lesson; put passion into your meals.

Grandma had five kids, those kids got married, and they each had two kids; and those kids had kids. Our normal holiday meals now have 30 or so people involved, and despite being over 90 years of age, grandma still make a good amount of the food. She loves her family and wants to make sure they are filled with good food. It’s one way she shows her love for us.

I know that I (Ben) will be referring to Grandma Miller from time to time, as she is really the driving force behind my interest in food, food preparation, and respect for food. But for now, I am happy to provide just a few of the tasty treats that Grandma Miller has brought into my life.  

1.    Snitz Pie

 2.    Bob Andy pie

3.    Fried Bluegill

4.    Mashed potatoes, with brown butter, NOT gravy.

5.    Cherry Jell-O with cinnamon and apples (that’s right a Jell-O salad)

6.    Stuffing (as in the bread you stuff in the bird)

7.    Ham or chicken or elderberry pot pie

8.    Angel food cake with brown sugar frosting

9.    Apple sauce

10. Cream chicken