This dish is more than a recipe—it’s a love letter to my grandma, her traditions, and the earthy simplicity of her cooking. Growing up in Timisoara, Romania, I spent countless days at her home, surrounded by her love and the aromas of her kitchen. Her meals were always the centerpiece, bringing comfort and connection to everyone who shared them.
One of her signature dishes was a humble mushroom and rice pilaf, cooked perfectly every time. She used simple, seasonal ingredients—locally foraged mushrooms like boletus, chanterelles, or field mushrooms, a handful of herbs, and perfectly cooked rice. These mushrooms, with their deep, earthy tones, shaped my lifelong love for their flavor.
Grandma’s cooking wasn’t just about food—it was deeply tied to the rhythm of her life. She followed the Orthodox calendar religiously, with its fasting and feast days guiding her meals. As a child, I didn’t fully understand why her cooking revolved around that small calendar on her wall. But now, I see it as her way of staying grounded, connected to her faith, and bringing a sense of structure and meaning to her days.
This recipe is my way of honoring her while adding my own creative twist. A creamy garlic-miso sauce elevates the earthy mushrooms she loved, and the rice cooker ensures the rice is cooked perfectly without the need to watch over another pot. The result is comforting, indulgent, and practical enough to enjoy for days.
Cooking this dish feels like sitting at her table again, sharing stories and love. It’s my way of reconnecting with her memory and the traditions she passed down, while making them my own. I hope it inspires you to connect with your own family traditions and create something truly special in your kitchen.
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