At any point this week, you could have found me surrounded by nearly 20 pounds of squash – peeling, chopping, and roasting in anticipation of the Squash-tastic Side Dishes for Thanksgiving class I was teaching. Standing in my kitchen, packing up tools and ingredients, the feelings I wore for many years playing competitive golf came over me again. Excitement with a few nerves, wondering if I had prepared enough, wondering if those who attended would be inspired…..
As I introduced myself to the fifteen eager students and began making the Golden Curried Acorn Squash Hummus, they seemed to welcome me with open eyes and ears. The anxious feelings left, and it began to feel like we were a team. Next I showed them how to peel & cut a large butternut, and shared tips on how to safely handle all squash to take a little of the intimidation factor away. I dispelled the correlation between pasta and spaghetti squash, as many times this can trick our brains and not meet expectations. Instead, I think of it as the only vegetable that can spiralize itself.
And I also mentioned the many uses for leftover squash puree, like this Chai Porridge with Roasted Kabocha Squash.
The four courses came and went, their questions created conversation, and the sound of forks scraping the plate hinted at approval of the recipes. Seeing the smiles on their faces as they left, and the kind words of, “I’m a squash convert!” spoken, I was humbled once again.
As I cleaned up that night, wiping the orange stains from the cupboards, and even a bit that decided to take residence on my cheek, I thought about the uniqueness of each of our paths, that lead us to our passion. Of which in writing probably sounds quite cliche, yet isn’t.
Never would I have thought that what we put on our plate and the connections with others it brings would fill my cup every day. Not the golf course, not the marketing degree, or even the pharmaceutical job I held for many years. Somedays I wonder if I’m doing enough to pay the bills, to buy the really expensive artisan cheese at the market, but I know I’d wonder the same thing regardless of job title.
For now it could be queen of dirty dishes and squash whisperer, and I’m quite alright with that.
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genevieve @ gratitude & greens
November 22, 2015
Aw, this post was so lovely to read. I think it is worth doing what you love, especially if it means you get to be the queen of dirty dishes and squash whisperer. Hooray for all the newly converted squash lovers! I love making chai spiced porridge but have never thought of adding squash purée to it- must add this to my to try list! xo
danielle is rooting the sun
November 20, 2015
amanda, i enjoyed reading this immensely! passion is such a driving force, a comforting friend, a unique path, and a fulfilling choice. it’s those moments when we really fall into our element that remind us of our love for certain things – the cooking class sounded brilliant. as well a beautiful recipe here, such a great use for squash. i really adore the chai, too. ♥
Emily | Gather & Dine
November 20, 2015
Sounds like such a rewarding teaching experience, Amanda! I’m sure that you were wonderful and inspiring. Chai spiced porridge sounds so inviting and I love kobocha. Happy weekend!
Christine // my natural kitchen
November 19, 2015
Amanda! I wish I could have been in your class, it sounds like you and your recipes and tips were a total hit and who wouldn’t love a sweetheart like you teaching them about the best ways to use squash? You are totally the squash whisperer! This breakfast sounds so nice – kabocha plus chai spices and porridge basically combines all my favourite foods of this season. Love! xo
amandapaa
November 19, 2015
:) i wish you could have been there too Christine! teaching makes me so happy. and at least someone besides my beau could be my squash sounding board. :) xo
Liz @ Floating Kitchen
November 19, 2015
Oh your class sounds amazing. Glad you can pass along the #squashlove to so many other folks. And this is the perfect way to use some leftover puree. Genius girl!
Abby @ The Frosted Vegan
November 19, 2015
Oh what a fun class, I so wish I lived closer so I could come hang out with you! :) I never think to have squash for breakfast, so I think you are convincing me to give it a try. Also, your pictures are GORGEOUS here pretty lady! xoxo