Friends Make the World Go Round

With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, I've spent the last few days reflecting on those things I'm thankful for: good health, family, friends, and corgis. I have family a mere 90 miles away and friends who are more like family that are a phone call or quick plane ride away.  I'm thankful for a loving and supportive spouse who has taught me to live spontaneously and not stress over things that are out of our control.   One of those things is his upcoming fellowship match.  In a few short days, D and I find out where he matched for his cardiology fellowship.  We have our wish list, of course, but in reality we would be happy in any of the fifteen (!!!) places on the list.  As the date approaches, I try to think about what it will be like on the other side, after we find out where we're moving to for the next 3-5 years.  I appreciate the calm before the storm and am trying to soak in this time.  This holiday at home was the perfect escape for me and I slept better and longer than I have in a long time.  Isn't it great how being home can do that? Life seems to slow down in a way that doesn't seem possible in Chicago.  I revert back into my old ways of wearing PJs for most of the day, having spontaneous dance parties with my sister, drinking New Glarus while watching movies and taking long walks with Parker along Lake Michigan.  Time with family is my reset button. 

Last week, before the holiday, I had the chance to see one of those people who falls into the "friends who are more like family" category. Lo was in town from California and we decided to make dinner, drink wine, eat chocolate and just chill.  She is one of the main reasons this space exists.  While chatting a year ago, she asked if I ever considered putting my recipes and thoughts into a blog.  The thought hadn't crossed my mind and I was honestly terrified of putting my thoughts out there.  She sent me this book and several months later after several brainstorming sessions with her and D the space was made.  So thank you Lo :)

In a previous post, I mentioned that pizza was my go-to meal for when friends are over, however, bibimbap is a close second.  The recipe was passed down from other friends who are like family, L and C.  At first I read the recipe that C sent and I was a bit nervous since there were so many steps.  However, there are a few time saving steps that I've acquired, and I've learned that you can throw just about any veggie into this bowl and it's delicious, so it's hard to screw up.  The one key ingredient you can't skip is the sauce.  C's recommendations include: "make sure to buy the Korean sounding sauce and a nice hoppy bomber." I used this Korean sauce and I agree, your favorite IPA is a fantastic pairing with this meal. 

C recommended using two separate recipes to make bibimbap: this recipe for the rice and this recipe for the rest.  You can include meat, tofu, or more veggies.  I recommend using two skillets simultaneously so that the prep goes faster and when the veggies are done put them in separate bowls for serving later.  Follow the recipe's instructions for final presentation. 

We enjoy this meal for it's simplicity, warm flavors and the heat which comes from the sauce.  If you prefer more heat, bring on the sauce! Once you've put the bowl together, break the egg yolk and mix it in with the sauce and goodies.  Playing with your food is encouraged!