In the lead up to Mother’s Day, Bon Appetit posted “Mother Knows Best” a compendium of food and cooking related advice from BA staffers’ moms.
This one, from Senior Food Editor Dawn Perry, really stood out:
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Biddy says, “A peanut butter and jelly sandwich tastes really good when someone else makes it for you.” Essentially, it’s the thought that counts. She’s the best.”
I think about all of the things that we make, or that are made for us, and how the act of someone preparing a meal, even as simple as a PB & J sandwich, can be a real sign of love.
Both of my parents are great cooks, but the perfect PB & J comes courtesy of my dad. Now, this recipes predates the gluten free, sugar free, dairy free, all-natural almond butter days, but that is also what makes it so good (and simple!).
- Two slices of Publix challah (egg bread) – it’s got to be challah and it’s got to be from Publix – toasted just ever so golden brown.
- A heaping knife-full of Peter Pan creamy peanut butter on both pieces of bread.
- An almost equal and even layer of Polaner All Fruit Seedless Strawberry jelly on both pieces of bread.
- Press together and eat, quickly, with a big glass of milk.
Thanks, Dad! What do you enjoy more when other people make it for you?
Also, here is some additional PB&J inspiration: kid-friendly options and outrageous spins on a classic.