Closed Loop Cooking Weekly Newsletter 5.8.20

May 8th, 2020

Hi fam,

What makes a recipe memorable? So much of a compelling dish is told through a beautifully crafted photograph or video. But what about the narrative of a written recipe? To write a compiled list of ingredients and dictate successful directions is an art form. Praise to every cookbook writer developing foolproof methods for us to navigate. I’m in awe of this understated craft. As I’ve been testing out new sourdough recipes (hello bagels! hopefully…) I’m at once impressed and confused by this myriad of how-to’s, that I’m too novice (or stubborn) to grasp. Recipe writing as storytelling, this is one of our most vital vehicles for communicating.

I’m flipping through the 40th Anniversary Temple Shalom Cookbook I’ve had since high school and noting the simple tone of this recipe for Jello Jigglers from Susan Schnee.

Dissolve one large packet of any flavor jello in 1 ¼ c. boiling water. Stir until well dissolved. Pour mixture into a glass baking dish to cool and chill until firm. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes and enjoy.

I love this free form, food focused poetry. Susan’s underlying wish is for you to have fun! Jello Jigglers is a cry of expression and I’m quietly moved by her constraint in conveying an afternoon of joy in three sentences. There’s a reason I read cookbooks as literature.

Whether it’s jello or otherwise, I’d love to know what recipes have stuck with y’all. Something passed down, found in a random mag… recipes that resonate. Let’s share these good words.

Stay hungry,Hawnuh Lee | Founder, Closed Loop Cooking

S U P P O R T

Made Trade masksOur dear friends at MT HQ have developed a beautiful face covering using recycled hemp and organic cotton. Handmade right here in Portland, OR these reusable masks are two layers, including a pocket you can drop a coffee filter into for extra protection. Genius, comfortable, and an awesome way to support small biz!

R E C I P E S

Sourdough discard herbed crackersIf you’re also drowning in discard, these delicious, herbaceous crackers are an excellent way to use up leftover starter and are easily customized with whatever herbs you have on hand.

A T T E N D

How to garden in an apartmentWe’re big fans of Amanda McLemore’s work over at Baguette and Butter. She’s launching an online course in the next few days on how to garden in an apartment! Great for all of us struggling to keep plants alive. Make sure to follow along for when it launches. (Psst she also has a Patreon!)

W I N S T A

The Gemini BakeClassic cool cakes my nostalgic heart pines for. Obsessed with the aesthetic, icing, and tender towers from this NYC baker.

Have an idea we should feature in the newsletter? Want to support us? Drop us a line at [email protected] and tell your pals to sign up. We can’t wait to see what y’all cook up next! #closedloopcooking