Every Christmas Eve, our family would attend Mass together and then gather at my aunt’s house for a festive dinner and exchanging gifts. Since I was in middle school, my aunt has gone out of her way to make a spinach, mushroom, and cheese casserole just for me—a dish I look forward to all year.Continue reading “Spinach, Mushroom & Cheese Casserole—my aunt’s holiday specialty, a dish made just for me every Christmas.”
Tag Archives: history
Ancient Royal Greens
Molokhia, also known as jute mallow or Jew’s mallow, is a beloved leafy green vegetable and soup with deep roots in Egyptian history dating back to the time of the pharaohs. Revered as “the food of kings,” this nutrient-dense green earned its name from the Arabic word “mulukiya,” meaning royal, reflecting its status as aContinue reading “Ancient Royal Greens”
Diwali: The Festival of Lights—History, Culture, and the Taste of Samosas
Celebrate Diwali, the vibrant Festival of Lights, through a journey of food, culture, and history. This blog and companion YouTube video explore how Diwali’s ancient traditions—lighting diyas, creating colorful rangolis, and gathering for prayers—symbolize hope and renewal. Readers who love cultural food storytelling will enjoy learning about traditional dishes like samosas, barfi, and gulab jamun, alongside a simple homemade samosa recipe perfect for first-time cooks. Discover the deeper meaning behind Diwali rituals and how food connects families across generations. On the ItsNickyLynn YouTube channel, experience these flavors and stories come to life with step-by-step cooking visuals and festival highlights. Ideal for audiences passionate about global food culture, culinary traditions, and heritage-inspired recipes, this Diwali feature blends history and taste into one heartwarming celebration. Join the community to cook, learn, and explore — where every recipe tells a story of light, love, and cultural connection.
A little back story about my family heritage
My grandmother Theresa was born in the Azores Islands of Portugal in 1941. She was the 5th child of 9 kids. Born and raised on the island of Faial, Theresa aspired to become a Carmelite Sister. On her 18th birthday Theresa, her parents, and her 8 siblings left the Azores and emigrated to the UnitedContinue reading “A little back story about my family heritage”
It's Nicky Lynn 