Introduction
Some meals are made to fill the stomach; others fill the silence left behind. A Supper for the Storm is a reflective dish created by a husband who learned that cooking can be a way of holding onto the one person whose laughter once warmed the kitchen. The recipe below is more than food—it is an invitation to taste memory, heal slowly, and keep love alive even when the rain comes down.
Ingredients:
2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional—can be replaced with beans)
3 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
A squeeze of lemon juice
Optional Memory Touch: A small pinch of a spice your loved one adored—anything from cinnamon to oregano.
Instructions:
Prepare the kitchen, and your heart.
Lightly wipe the counter, breathe deeply, and let the sound of the rain—or silence—settle around you.
Build the base.
Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they soften and turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Layer the flavors.
Add the tomatoes, smoked paprika, and thyme. Let the mixture simmer until the tomatoes break down slightly.
Honor the memory.
Toss in the mushrooms and stir until they release their juices. If adding chicken or beans, fold them in gently.
Pour the broth and let it transform.
Add the rice and pour in the warm broth. Stir once, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow to cook for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Finish with brightness.
Turn off the heat. Add salt, pepper, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon. If using the optional “memory spice,” add a pinch now to let it bloom in the steam.
Serve thoughtfully.
Spoon into a bowl and eat slowly, letting flavor and remembrance meet.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for added texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of broth or water to revive the rice.
Variations:
