Dining as a celebration

Over the past year, I've read a number of books on French customs. While there was a handful of things that did not resonate with me, one thing in particular did: the way French view food and dining.

Dining should not only be a delicious, sensual experience, but it should be a celebration! Fast or hurried food is not a part of this equation. Homecooked food is always best, and lingering around the table a must. Since reading about this idea, I have adopted it in my home.

I read a quote somewhere that said, "Everybody eats, but few people dine." Eating good food is like reading good books; it is worth sitting down for. So, for starters, I set the table. I don't use the plastic dishes we've acquired over the years, but the nicer, breakable ones. I also prefer to make plates for everyone, because it just seems a nicer presentation. And, of course, wine is essential. I try to use placemats and cloth napkins because I like them. I like to play slow, pleasant music in the background, because it is believed to cause people to take smaller bites, chew longer, and eat slower.

We eat mindfully, aware of our food and how it came to be on our table. We eat slowly, in order to savor each bite and flavor. And we talk. And talk. And talk. I prefer leaving aside any topics that will cause indigestion, so unlike the French, we don't discuss politics or any subject that might upset the civil mood I try to create. I read once that the brain will create chemicals that counteract effective digestion when we worry, fret, or argue. Those topics are most welcome other times, but not while dining.We sit at the table a long while, talking, enjoying a glass of wine, taking pleasure in the company present. In Spain, this practice is known as sobremesa; it's the time after a meal to digest, converse, and relax around the table.

I extend this even to the times I eat alone. Often I will use other plates that lack a complete set, but are still nice. I eat slowly and mindfully, not in front of the tv, and often without a book. Admittedly, after a few bites, I might open up a book I'm currently reading, but I definitely try to not start off that way. I do usually save the wine for supper, not lunch.

I decided to research some dining customs in other countries, and it was fascinating! In France, one doesn't ask for seconds, but in Greece, it is considered a compliment to ask for seconds and even thirds. In America, children are taught to clean their plates and not waste food, but in some Asian countries, cleaning your plate is an insult to host because it suggests they did not feed you enough.

The Mexican culture emphasizes that eating a meal together, strengthens a family. I agree. So if you don't dine together as a family already, strive to do so at least once a week, and make it special. Make it a celebration!