You should know right from the start that I made this cookbook more for me than I did for my mom, Jane. I think we were both sick of the annual Thanksgiving phone call when I asked for the recipe for Niva’s Yams. And I don’t know how many times I have called her early Saturday morning for the sinfully delicious Buttermilk Syrup recipe.
Most of these dishes didn’t start out as her original recipes. But she has made them so many times, switched up the ingredients throughout the years, and morphed them into her own masterpieces. (You know it’s really “her recipe” when the recipe card is covered in notes and comments!)
This book is a legacy to our family and includes starters, salads, soups, main dishes and a chapter for desserts and a chapter for cookies. It is the basic family style cookbook with the easiest, most delicious meals.
My mother loves to serve and feels fulfilled by making people feel good. One way she has done that for literally thousands of people is through her cooking.
Her love of cooking and serving others has rubbed off a bit on me. Ever since I was a little toddler, she enlisted me in helping her make chocolate chip cookies and helping host family dinner parties. A love of cooking also runs deep in my genes thanks to my Grandma Helen and Nana, who also have many recipes in this book.
I have scrambled and searched to find all of my mom’s favorites. I have taken recipes from friends, family, books, websites, and dishes she has recreated from restaurants around the world. Thank you to the people who probably have no idea that their recipes have been enjoyed in the Taggart home for years.
This book, along with her life, is filled with friends, family, and meals that have brought so much joy and unforgettable memories. From traditional holiday feasts to everyday go-tos, I chose the best of the best from her collection. I hope you enjoy these delectable dishes as much as our family has!
Cheers!
Abi
