I talk to myself… (quite often in fact) with assorted random instructions, reassurances, quiet reminders, admonishments and encouragements …and the occasional boisterous song thrown in for good measure. ♥ I find it particularly useful when I’m trying to decipher a music theory question: “I knew I should have (insert here: listened, studied, practiced.. written down every…
Monthly Archives: March 2012
Numbers 8 and 9 are just precious 
Yowza! A pound of lard to five and a half cups of flour seems a bit rich, but I’m down with the egg and vinegar, which we always use in our pie crust. Your expert is right about the light hand and the chilling though. We don’t bother with ice water either (our kitchen is cold). Can’t wait for your book.
I did love the photos at the beginning – reminded me so much of Mad Men but the 1955 housewife rules that must have been written by a male or a very ‘under the thumb and loving it kind of a woman’ was just nauseating. No wonder the divorce rate went sky high in that generation. Must go and powder my nose and practise speaking in a soothing, feminine voice – Carl’s about to return from the office! xx
Ha, now where’s the ribbon for my hair!!
I love these pics!
Thank goodness for equality now days – right…
LOVED your video Smidge!
Mandy
You laugh, but Katherine keeps putting this list under my pillow….
Hey! I often dream of my whole house being clean, then I wake up and face reality – LOL. Good one here and I have better luck with graham crusts than I do the flaky ones but nothing ventured nothing gained.
It’s funny and seriously outdated but they all thought they were every bit as moderne as we think of ourselves today. I wonder what people 70 years into the Future will think of us after they’ve read one or two of today’s Cosmo quizzes.
Thanks for sharing this recipe. I’m going to be making a bunch of pies soon, so this is great to have!
Be hygienic! Actually, the woman who runs our local bar could take a few notes! Love the pictures and do we really believe that Dita irons in her heels and corset?! Love the recipe, lard is indeed the trick to good pastry (so my granny used to tell me) plus the egg to make it “short” but the vinegar is a new one ot me. Am intrigued so will just pop off to powder my nose, slip into my heels and corset and get back into the kitchen 
hahahaha I love this! I think I may have those shoes as well:)
The pie crust looks perfect.
Oh I grill like that all the time. And my children are certainly always clean, polished and quiet when Mike comes home. LOL! Once a few years back I went to a social group in an effort to meet more women. The topic of the day “how to spice up your marriage.” Seriously they were advocating for many of the things on this list. (Make sure to compliment your husband daily because you know the girl at the office is. Um ok. How about compliment him because you like him?!) I came home horrified and disillusioned that I’d ever meet any women I could get along with in that town. Fortunately I was able to find some more like-minded people, but wow. I thought we had come farther than this. Mike and I still get a kick out of it to this day. Now off to go do the wash, better find my pumps first. LOL! Love this post Smidge!
I think that is how we were raised even though that article came out before I was born. That sentiment prevailed through the early 60′s until all hell broke loose. Thank God! Hahaha!
Great post!
heheh, when I see those antique pics I always wonder how did they clean the house with their hair done like that, make-up on and those high heeled shoes? I fail miserably! LOL!
Haha! You gave me a good laugh. I fear this could have been my Mother. I obviously did not inherit her need to be a good housewife. My husband howled with laughter as I read this post aloud.
His-terical, Smidge! If you have any questions about how to clean your house, just ask your mother-in-law! She’s sure to have some good tips! and why has no one told me before now that I STILL need to bathe, even After snagging my man? And “listen to him. What he has to say is far more important” ! Well, starting tonight when my man comes home, I’m turning over a new leaf! (I suppose this means I have to shave my legs too?)
Smidge loved your video too, especially the song! And the pup. And your own sweet hands!
xoxo. spree
I’m looking at the third (and risque?) vintage image and thinking to myself…what can this mean?! What a great post, Barbara! All I can say is that if all this were true, I would fail as a wife and housewife. Do write a book…what fun that would be to read. Love your video…you are always so inventive and creative!
I love reading those old “How to be a good wife” quotes. My mother in law has an old cookbook with a bunch of them. Hilarious! We laugh about them frequently. I have a pretty traditional marriage so I don’t mind trying to be “a good wife”, however, I’m not sure that I really ever accomplish it. Ha!
Pie dough is by far, my favorite food group.
Hahaha! Hilarious! Great finds Smidge. I can’t help but laugh my way through these. I swear I can hear my grandmother in some of them. Oh my. And by all means, yes! Write that book! It would be a perfect companion to these
Thank you for the pie dough recipe too!
Cute little comics, Barbara. It was a very interesting time indeed. Nice pie crust recipe!
Haha if my future husband (wow that is long way away!) expects me to be like your last two google finds then he has got to go!
But if he expects this pie crust I will be more than willing to oblige
Yum recipe 
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I loved the pictures too… And yes, where is our ribbons… Thank you dear Barbara, with my love, nia
I loved this post and the illustrations that are at the top of it. I too wonder (like an earlier commenter) what a generation or two away from ours will make of the articles and advice in today’s magazines.
Oh, wow – I was excited I was from a later generation – until I read your googled tips… My husband must be super disappointed in me when he gets home and the kids’ stuff is everywhere and I may not smell as fresh as I should. I mean, how can I expect him to help out. lol. Crazy views! I love the Good Housekeeping advice about letting him talk since he’s more important and I have no right to question him. At least I’m picking up in the baking/cooking department – but like you, it’s totally for me. Thanks for the fun reads, today! And for the pie crust.
What a fun read…Any time I am tempted to think I’d like to go back to the “good old days” I’ll whip this out! I am excited for all the instruction you’ve added about making a good pie crust. Mine are sadly disappointing, but I haven’t tried (again) for some time. Maybe I will give it a try! Seems like anyone who is a REAL woman ought to be able to make pie crust! Debra
My husband found this page from Good Housing magazine years ago and promptly posted it on our fridge with one of companies work magnet. We can all find the humor in this now… But somehow I really think that our hubbies think this is how it should be each and every day. They are caught up in some “Pleasantville” movie fairy tale. Your crust is just housewife picture perfect. Thanks for the humor Smidge. BAM
Good Housekeeping Magazine that is, darn with that auto word detection….BAM
I just love this no fail pie crust. This is just a great recipe . And the how to be a good wife article is just interesting. Since me and my future husband, whoever he may be lol, will be working.. I think we should both clean the house
You are so fun!
I loved the Louboutin
Yes.. “even if he stays out all night”??? What the..
Hahaha, that’ll stop the old arteries! Must be why it came together so nicely:)
I never thought of that.. But yes, it is no surprise divorces went sky high!!
I think I have a drawerful here;)
Thought they would give you a laugh.. But they are pretty, eh?
I know.. But I grew up watching this go on!!
I think you may be feeling oppressed;) Thanks for the laugh, Greg!!
Hahaha… Yes, I have those dreams and dreams of it staying clean once we’ve done the work!!
You raise a very good point.. I think there will be all sorts of comments about this generation for sure, judging by the music videos I’ve seen.
I hope it works as well for you as it did for me.. And if it doesn’t, call Tenderflake! Lol!
Hahaha, yes, be hygienic!! But only for your man, not yourself;) You sound like an experienced pie crust maker! Now go powder that nose!!
They ARE pretty, aren’t they??
I just knew you were that kind of girl;) Wow!! What an awful group?? I’m so glad you found some like-minded, progressive women to hang out with!!
I vaguely recalling trying to look nice in the mornings.. For about a week!! Lol!
I know!! I think some men our age still think this way but won’t admit it!
It was my mother, til she got wise and went to school and decided to have a career.. Because she wanted to… Glad you husband had a good laugh!
Oh, gosh.. You’re his-terical yourself!! Yes, shave those legs, by all means, your husband will be so relieved!! Lol!
Hahaha, what can this mean is right. Well, I think that some advertising companies sold women on a whole lot of nonsense back then!!
I’d love to see that cookbook.. The recipes are probably priceless as well! I think traditional is fine.. If that’s what women want and choose to do.. Not just because society expects it of us. I love to bake and have a clean home too:) xoxo Smidge
I was lucky, my granny and my mom were both pretty progressive for their times.. Very progressive, actually. Xo Smidge Yes, I’ll write a book.. Just looking for the time to do so! So much housework to do;)
Glad you liked them!
Yes, make that a long way away!! I know you will choose well!!
I’ve got a ribbon for you too!! Xo Smidge
I’m sure there will be so much commentary on this.. I’ll be curious to see what is said!
I know, eh? Who could write that stuff in today’s world?? I think my father-in-law could have told me more about cleaning the house than my mother-in-law ever could? Oh, well… I’m all for questioning my husband;)
Mine have been disappointing as well. The lemon meringue crusts worked because they were almost like a cookie short-bread crust so easy to handle.
I think it’s hilarious your husband posted that! Yes, some men still expect this.. I think my generation of husbands grew up watching this and thinking it was awesome;)
I was so happy to find this recipe.. I’ve been searching everywhere for the perfect one. I know your future husband will be just the best husband ever, he’ll be lucky to have you!! Xo Smidge
Hahaha, someone finally noticed the reference to Louboutin!! xo
What? I missed a Louboutin reference? Where? *blink blink*
Hahaha, in the kitchen photo there is a bit of writing on it…
Ohhhh… what to say, where to start?? Watching Mad Men is good enough for me I think.
I’ve got one of those ‘handy’ little how to books from the 50′s. Says I don’t need to do any exercise as the light housework I will be doing as the woman of the household will be ample.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go pretty myself up, pop some lipstick on, clean the kids, dust, make dinner, arrange his pillow and practise my best low feminine voice.
thank you for stopping by my blog and for your comments! i’m excited to have found your blog as a result — and i loved this post made me laugh
Hahaha.. we laugh, but we often do so much of this anyway:)
I’m so glad!!
LOL! We are soooo bad!
Lovely post, Barbara! I would fail as the perfect housewife especially when it comes to keeping the house spotless so I’m glad that we have a cleaning lady who comes once a week.
You’re a lucky gal!
Sent from my iPhone
That’s what I used to hear from my grany’s at their age, wonder if there is any of these in our days.
Yes, I do also have such those dreams of waking up into a cleaned house, but I think when you have kids at a school age, don’t even think about it.
Your pie crust is so easy, will try it. Thanks so much for sharing such a beautiful article.
Very happy to know your blog, and very thaks to let me know about it.
Enthusiast to follow, keep up the good work.
I love those pics! And that was a great title!
Unfreaking believable!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love old lists and such like that, but man…that one is a piece of work!!! No wonder so many marriages were unhappy!
I am horrible at pie crust. Perhaps this recipe would be the magic touch for me?
I know, it makes me angry when I read it! But then I laugh hysterically and wonder what the women did to get even!! They had to have resented some of those “rules”?? I’ve still tried to perfect my crust. The recipe is the right one, but I didn’t have cold lard, didn’t use regular flour and I cut the lard in too small.. It should be mostly pea sized. I don’t know if that helps.. But I’m trying again!!
Good tips! And yes…I get they did get even…in ways maybe we don’t want to know!!!!
Lol!!
In the whole scheme of things, 1955 wasn’t all that long ago and thank GOODNESS we have come such a long way from those times ! I am still gobsmacked from reading them. I would take the perfect pie crust and throw it at my husband if he thought that way lol.
Isn’t it sickening, especially the one where she shouldn’t question him if he stays out all night! Unreal! I’d have the locks changed, lol! And yes.. the pie in the face would be worth opening the door for!!
[...] your favorite pie crust recipe, I like the one I used for my Spring Flower Lemon Tartlets or the The Good Housewife’s No-Fail Pie Crust. Roll it out, cut out circles and press them into muffin or tart tins. Make sure to poke the [...]
♥ Walk at Dawn dawn’s stealthy creep across soft and warm wooden floor to scarved woollen face, mittened hand and leashed collar earnestness clicked in place then door slammed while wild white cotton snow swirls around blanketed sky… and longing creeps stealthy down Barbara Bamber, March 2012
Oh yum! The sequel
I could happily eat this on a cold day — or a rainy one.
Looks like my bro and dad know what they want for dinner
You make even my mouth salivate! It looks fantastic!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Looks fabulous – it’s going to rain tomorrow maybe I’ll just try these.
Oh I saw this recipe the other day and it looked great, and now you’ve made it it looks great. regardless of snow – we currently have plenty of the white stuff on the slopes but now have blue skies which would be perfect for thise dish!
How wonderful that you made it – it did look good (both times)! Hope things warm up for you – but maybe not as you want to enjoy those leftovers
You have the right idea lady, bone in is the only way to go!
My mouth is watering, my hands are getting shaky, and I find it rough to type this message to you Barb.. because these short ribs look so darn delicious. I mean wow.. yes I love this
I checked this one out at the Bartolini Kitchens, too! And now that you’ve both highly recommended it – it has to go on my to-do list for sure.
I’m envisioning enjoying this with lots of extended family around the table, great conversation and a good bottle of wine. We’re talkers in our family, so I imagine we’d be there for quite awhile. This looks perfect for that kind of gathering, Smidge!
I like the very evocative lines ‘wild white cotton snow – swirls around blanketed sky’. The recipe sounds yum and a glass of a Super Tuscan with the beef ribs – well that’s perfection.
Yum!
So glad that you not only liked the recipe but that you blogged about it, as well. You took such great pictures, Smidge, that it looked far better than mine ever did! Thank you for treating my recipe so kindly!
Well, that’s not true.. yours was so tempting it compelled me to try it out so I could taste it:) You’re always so welcome…
What a mouth watering recipe, Barbara, and it’s making me want to head back over to John’s blog and try this recipe before it gets too warm to eat these types of foods.
I was going to ‘borrow’ this recipe. I’ve been waiting patiently for the weather to cool down a bit before I start slow roasting. It just looks like the best comfort food with so many flavours and yes, perfect with a glass or two of red. I definitely will be making this but probably not until after Easter xx
Snow?! Gasp! Well, these would be the perfect way to pick me up on a snowy day. I know we’ll be trying these.
Making me droooool – looks delicious!
You will be so glad you did!! Perfect for a cooler day!
Honestly, it’s one of my family’s favorites now:)
I know!!! Snow!! And lots of it.. Why couldn’t it stay in January where it belongs??
It was an awesome recipe:)
It was so much like the cotton we get from trees here in the late summer..
I’m so glad I had that effect on you.. John’s really an awesome cook, er, chef!!
You sure won’t be disappointed!
Now that sounds like a lot of fun! We are a chatty bunch when we’re all together too. I was thinking this would be a great recipe for company because it goes in the oven early and just stays there!
And it looks so much prettier too!
Still more snow today.. I’ve almost given up… Oh well!
You’re right, it would be perfect for that ski trip!!
I’m drooling while looking at the photos. It’s such a comfort food for me!
You definitely made John proud here Smidge, beautifully done! We are heading into winter – not fun although we don’t get snow – anything below a perfect summers day is cold for me.
Mandy
this looks positively YUM
I also seen this on John’s post and thought to myself this is one rocking meal. So did your version fall off the bone too? Love the new photo Smidge, Take Care, BAM
Wow that looks amazing!
It’s kind of neat when different bloggers head into different seasons and different food choices because of it. I look forward to seeing what you make!
It sure did.. one of our family’s “keeper” recipes for sure now.
Now that you’ve borrowed Chicago John’s recipe and done such beautiful things with it, I bet he’d like to see it back! At least a big plate of it! xoxo
Gorgeous and mouth watering! I have a whole list of John’s recipes to try. I need to get on that!
I never know which I love more…your photos or the awesome recipes. You are a genius and btw I so LOVE the new profile pic. You are beautiful!
Beautiful poem to start out the post! I thought John’s recipe was lovely when I read it at his site, but I still read every word of it again…I took in the smells and tastes–I swear I can enjoy it even from a distance. I am sure you have spread even more comfort by extending the timeline on this winning recipe! Debra
Oh my gosh, I want a serving of those RIGHT NOW! Braised short ribs are one of my favourite meals, nice work
Hahaha, yes.. wonder what John’s got up his sleeve??
That’s so true!
This is definitely a man’s meal:)
I hope you do, they’re highly recommended!!
His recipe made it so easy to succeed!!
WOW they look incredible !
John is an amazing cook…
Much Ado about Nothing, Act IV, Sc. I I never tempted her with tart too large, But, as a brother to his sister, show’d Bashful sincerity and comely love. Othello, Act II, Sc. III Tart, I love thee; But never more be officer of mine. Othello, Act III, Sc. III But, O, what damned tarts…
Those are the loveliest tarts on the universe! I enjoyed how your post unfolded with Shakespeare’s quotations. Your words and enticing photographs are sure to inspire tart production in kitchens around the world.
What a great post, Barb, and a real delight to read! Your photos are gorgeous and using Shakespearean quotes was brilliant! And I haven’t even gotten to the recipe yet. Those mini lemon tarts look delicious and would be perfect for any number of occasions — or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a lazy Sunday morning. Suddenly, I want lemon tarts!
You manage to make food look so beautiful that I just want to sit and admire it for a while rather than eat it. Well, okay, I want to eat it, too.
Taking liberties with Shakespeare (but I’m sure he would have liked the pretty tarts).
You crazy tart! This is such a funny post and what a great recipe.
Hahaha, I’m happy to be called a tart any day:)
Sent from my iPhone
Yes, I’ve taken advantage of poor William… But I bet he wouldn’t mind:)
Sent from my iPhone
Me too!! It’s hard giving them away.. Great to have photos!
Sent from my iPhone
Thanks… Once I got started I couldn’t stop:) kind of like Chinese Fortune Cookies game where you at “in bed” at the end:)
Sent from my iPhone
Love it! You are so creative. And these look gorgeous. I love tarts, I love lemon.
Smidgen, O Smidgen, how clever tart thou!
Another beautiful (!!!) brilliant post, and what an exquisite little tart! Is this not perfect for Easter brunch ? Afternoon tea ? A bridal or baby shower ? Breakfast ? Yes yes yes!
Twenty years in this country, and I still find it hard to read Shakespeare and other classics, I sense the beauty of his words, but I lack the knowledge of the language to fully appreciate it. I never give up, though – go on reading, and dreaming, and learning with each phrase
another beautiful post, shock full of Spring beauty!
Thank you!!!!
I bet you get a tremendous number of neighbors that “just had to stop by” for some random thing when they smell the fragrance of your baking! I would be one of them!
Oh how I love to read your blog posts! What a great way to start my Sunday. And the tartlets look divine! Like sunshine in a cup
That’s a very clever Shakespeare-Tart Combo!
Haha what am awesome post! I didn’t know Shakespeare liked tart so much
If he was your scrumptious delicious tarts he would have written a play called Tart just for you
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
What a wonderful post Smidge. I love all the Shakespearean quotes. The quotes from Much Ado About Nothing took me back to that wonderful adaptation by Kenneth Branagh. The tarts are so gorgeous. I love how you piled the meringue so high. They look so delicious. Now I feel I must make some lemon meringue tarts! xx
Beautiful! Thou art so creative!
I think Shakespeare would approve of these dreamy lemon tartlets.
Very cool how-to videos for meringue beginners!
So many things I love about this post, Smidge. The tarts look divine and I especially love the photo of them lined up on the platter with the vintage linen underneath. I’d love to serve these at my next gathering out on the front porch. I think my girlfriends would love them.
You are so naughty rewriting shakespeare.. hilarious!! gorgeous tarts and i would know!! have a fab evening.. this was a tremendous post.. c
Thank you so much, Ruth:) They were fun to make!
Thanks, Gretchen!
What a delightful post! Those tarts are so beautiful, perfect for Easter or Mother’s Day brunch. Or, any other spring brunches really
Oooh, so the meringue is already cooked before you pipe it on? That’s very clever! Beeyootiful post, Smidge, as always. You really have such a wonderful touch with your lighting and photography!
What an absolutely beautiful post! The words, the photos, the recipes! I have had a really hard day, LOL, and reading this at the end of it was just the perfect stop for me! And I can’t wait to view the video clips and learn some tricks. I am a so-so cook who absolutely loves to learn from bloggers such as yourself who are artists! These little tartlets look like something I need to master before Easter. Debra
spree o spree, it is the smidge and the tart is the sun…
Thank you.. just went to a shower today in fact! Breakfast, yes, always;)
Never give up on Shakespeare.. even if there’s just a feel and love for the language I think it’s a gift?
Thank you so much:)
And you would be always welcome in:)
I hadn’t thought of that.. but they are like the sun…
Why, thank you:) I do like to write Combos
Hahaha, that would be hilarious! Maybe I would be the main character.. the tart in the play..
Oh wow! These are my favorites! I am going to get fat just by looking at these gorgeous tarts you made! Absolutely stunning post! I loved how you worked Shakespeare into it. Just beautiful! I am in awe!
Oo! Beautiful and ambitious! They’re gorgeous and I love your Shakespeare quotelets sandwiched between. Beautiful!
I love Shakespeare and Lemon tarts..I don´t rememebr it being quite so much fun at school though. I think The Bard will be chuckling right now
the quotes make the tartlets come alive – thank you for a lovely recipe
Beautiful photography!
And your winning streak continues….
Good work creating an original piece of blogging gold, young woman!
It’s not everyday you get Shakespeare and deserts. And here DH was wanting a lemon meringue pie and I had no clue about the meringue part – THANKS!!!!!
How lovely! Every little bit of it–the recipe, the photos, the prose–a delightful way to start the day for me. Thanks.
Love the quotes and love those adorable little tarts!
Mandy
I’m a tart for tarts. And that blue bowl of yours makes me swooooooon. Thanks for happy photos on Monday mornings. From 70s and 80s last week to snow this morning. Too good to be true, that warm spell!
Very impressive Shakespeare references to the recipe! Kudos!
Lemon tarts are one of my favorite treats. These are presented just so beautifully and what fun to read. That is so impressive how you pulled all of those quotes for this. Loved it Smidge!
I want a slice of your Spring flower lemon tarletts, I am having a sweet tooth today and yours look to good to be true. Hamlet with tart sounds great! XD make it all tart in live.
Oh Smidge. It seems I start every comment here like that, but that’s how I feel. You have written another beautiful start to my week here. I can’t tell you how much I love how you write, and put such beautiful words with fantastic food. You. Are. Amazing. I love this…thank you…
xoxo
Love your creativity in ‘editing’ the quotes. And the tarts look SO good!
It was so much fun to find them:)
They weren’t as difficult as I thought they’d be.. Fun once I got going:)
Yah, I think they teach it much better these days!
I’m glad you liked it!!
Thanks!
You say the nicest things *blush*
One word: Brilliant. No. Two words: Tastefully done. Two more: Absolutely delicious. And I leave you with these final words from Henry Brown’s “Your Little Heart”…
Don’t look at someone else’s tart
It’s yours that stand’s apart
Don’t be known to have a little tart
But one filled huge with love to start
The lovely little tartlets look delicious. I see one real problem though. They are small and you will want to keep eating them…lots of them. Loved the last photo…the platter went so well with the little swirls of the topping.
[...] week, Just a Smidgen serves a purely creative delight in “What’s in a name? That which we call a tart by any other name would taste as sweet… Hamlet, Act II, Sc. II – Doubt thou the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; [...]
Mmmm I love the smell of toasting meringue. These look amazing !
They’re soo good, I love meringue as well.. and my new torch, it’s fun to play with;)
Some of you may be familiar with the Paper-Bag Princess.. She goes on a quest to slay the dragon who has kidnapped her Prince Ronald. She is successful, as one would imagine, being a very clever and talented young Princess with all sorts of dragon-slaying skills… but she loses her clothes in the process. Out-witted,…
I did enjoy it! The combination of herbs in your recipe look so good. Fresh dill is one of my favorites and I don’t use it as much as I’d like. I love this way of cooking fish (in parchment) and especially love your photos!
Thanks for the story (and recipe) today!
WOW! I fall in love with all of them… Beautiful tale, beautiful writing… and your photographs… Especiall this red chili… fascinated me. I want to eat all of them… Thank you dear Barbara, have a nice weekend, with my love, nia
Love the fairy tale!
What a wonderful story and so true. I love this fish in a package. I just have a few questions. It sounds like you place the strings on top of the lemons that are setting on parchment rather than under the sheets and tie, which seems odd to me so I must be reading it wrong. Then it sounds like you pour the wine inside the packet and tie. Wouldn’t the wine leak out? Then tiring again?
Am I reading this all wrong? I envision doing the process differently but would like to know if I’ve totally read this incorrectly or not? Looking forward to your reply and to trying this magical fish
The string is mostly to hold the “insides of the fish” and the herbs on.. but definitely you could slip it under the lemon.. it would be tough to keep all the slices from coming off when you serve but sure worth a try. I was worried about the wine as well, especially because I’d made it so much earlier in the day and stuck it in the fridge.. but the parchment didn’t leak and it didn’t go soggy:) I figured I’d rewrap if it did.. I take photos early in the day due to light (need to get an artificial photography light soon!!). The whole fish was sooo pretty.. but we also loved the taste of the fillet as well.. the string is also meant as part of the “rustic presentation” too.. once it all bakes, it does hold together quite well… I hope that helps:) xo Smidge
I loved that story! Happy ending divorce and all! Hahaha!
The fish looks mahvelous too~
Thank you:)
I love the way you photograph Smidge.
Mandy
Brilliant story – I expect the old man lived alone in his big house and young girls laughed at him showing off in his jag! Meanwhile the lovely people got to enjoy delicious trout like this and loved each other for ever after
beautiful beautiful blog.
Oh Smidge! What a delightful update to the old tale!! Adorable! Ahh, what love and kindness do bring! and your fish, oh my! I do want to try! All of this, pure magic!
(and then there’s the staging, the plating, the lighting, the photos! Wow honey! Fabulous!) xo
Is it bad that I hoped the husband would get a consequence of some sorts? I guess I’ll just have to go with him living a sad lonely life after she left. This trout looks so lovely – we haven’t had trout in years, not since our then three year old caught one, not realizing we would need to, um, kill it and clean it because we were going to eat it. He actually thought it was coming home to live in a tank and be his friend. Trout trauma ensued. It was not a good afternoon, to say the least. The lessons us parents learn about full disclosure before an activity. He’s been fairly anit-fish (or at least fish that still look like fish) since.
Love the story Smidge…. and the trout en papillote. Wow! Great photos too
I always love a “they lived happy ever after” story. The fish sounds great steamed in the parchment and would make a lovely presentation when serving guests.
Thoroughly entertaining post, Barb, and a treat to read! I’ll be heading out to the store in a few minutes. If they’ve fresh trout, guess what I’ll be having for dinner? If, and when, I do make this dish, I’ll come back here to tell you. Thanks for a great recipe!
Lovely tale and trout Smidge
What a lovely tale and recipe. I’m not a huge fan of whole fish (it’s something I picked up after I read Margaret Atwood’s The Edible Woman, I couldn’t eat eggs for months after that book!). But I would love the fixin’s with a fish steak. Very nice summery dish.
I love love love your fairy tale!!! It is so sweet
And bring out my inner 6 yr old
So appropriate for this beautiful and delicious looking post
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Amazing dish. Your photos look simply stunning.
Great fish tail, I mean tale!
Oh, Smidge. That looks truly great. I just cooked some trout myself – it was yummy. I turned it into a fish chowder with potatoes, carrots and a home made fish stock. It was delicious. I love trout, especially since it’s so cheap.
Your Friday fairy tale made me smile – I love it. And I am still smiling – it’s a happy-making story.
Great story Smidge!
It was lovely to wake up this morning and find your post. What a treat. I love your fairytale and like a true fairytale there is a good motto to the story. This fish in a bag dinner must be wonderful and so full of flavour. Have a lovely weekend Smidge xx
Love fish, especially trout – looks delicious! Have a Great Weekend:)
Can’t beat a handsome fish! Beautifully told and I could certainly eat that trout.
Oh Smidge, The Fisherwoman And Her Husband….oh my! That’s terrific! You are loaded with talent my dear. I loved your tale so much and I’m so glad you were inspired to write it and share it
Your trout looks delicious! Thanks for the recipe.
Just dropping by to let you know, Smidge, that I made this trout for dinner tonight and really enjoyed it! Cooking fish en papillote is a favorite of mine and this is a very good recipe for doing so. I really liked the dressing and will be using it with other fish preparations, as well. Thanks, Smidge, I’ll definitely be making this again!
This recipe is so gorgeous! Your pictures are really professional and the simple ingredients are so earthy.
You’re so welcome:) The fish steamed and kept in it’s juices so sort-of poached as well. It was incredibly moist. I think I’d make all of my fish in these little packets now. Xo Smidge
Thank you nia.. It was fun to write.. Fun to make and fun to eat;) xo Smidge
Lol.. Yup, had to figure out a way to get rid of him;)
Hahaha, or the old man had the young girls as girlfriends.. That happens sometimes when they drive a jag;)
Thanks spree.. I’d have a wee glass of wine before I wrote it.. I’m thinking that’s a plan for next time as well;)
I know.. Just couldn’t punish him, I don’t think she would have since she was so kind-hearted, lol! You made me laugh today!! Your poor son.. Yes, that would be trauma, definitely! I think you should post that story!!
Ooooh, love your title more…”trout en papillote” sounds ravishing!!
Yes.. I remind myself (and kids) that only happens in fairytales;) I thought the same thing.. What else could I make in parchment??
So.. Great minds think alike.. I can’t wait to try your short-rib recipe.. You should smell my kitchen.. Heavenly!!
You know, I was VERY squeamish about this fish… Kind of freaked me out to be honest. But I thought it was time to step “out there” and cook a little more “organic” and wild!! Lol, it turned out after all:)
Ahhh… You’re so cute.. 6 wasn’t as long ago for you as it is for me:)
Thank you:)
Hahaha.. Too cute!
Now if only I’d have some left overs.. I’m going to have to try that chowder of yours. We’ve got snow again and I’m craving warm comfort food just like that!!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Oh.. If only life were that simple;)
It was fun to rewrite.. Bit more of a draft or a story a teacher would tell her students.. Guess the “teacher” is still in me:) It would have become a puppet play for my class!
You too!! Hope it’s a fun one!
Hmmm… Well, he was handsome in the end:)
Hahaha, yup, things are a bit different today than back in Grimm’s day:) I’m glad you stopped by
Yay!! I’m glad it turned out.. I think the paper adds steam and poaching liquids to make it so tender. If you think of anything else to make in a packet let me know… Maybe a dessert??
Thanks so much, I always say I love the photography, no, I love the cooking, no the baking, no the writing.. I guess that’s why we blog, right:)
Yep! You are so lucky you have a lovely kitchen and so many nice accessories! I am slowly building my collection, very slowly:/
I so love your blog
Thanks!
This is truly a beautifully presented dish! The detail is impressive. I love that you even chop the olives with style, and the colors are simply gorgeous. I’m not sure I’ve ever said that about trout! Debra
I love fish in parchment, and your flavors….lively and mouth watering. A great story and a great recipe!
Oh Barbara.. my mouth is watering and boy am I getting hungry right about now lol. This trout looks excellent. Wonderful recipe that you know I’m going to try
Hooray for cabins in the forest I say. Fish yes I do like, but fairytales?… love them.
Another one please?
No.. It’s past your bedtime, now go to sleep! Hahaha! Xo Smidge
Fabulous story Smidge! I really enjoyed reading it. And I do enjoy the Paperbag Princess as well. Miss A has the book. This looks like a beautiful way to cook fish. I was just talking to someone last night about trout and how I’ve never made it at home. When I do, I know where to come for a recipe now!
I loved your tale Smidge. I hope the old man has to pay tons on taxes for all of his free fortunes from the fish. LOL Very unique flavors of dill pickles, olives and mayo on the fish. I am going to try it in my steamer and let you know how it goes. Also we do not have trout in HK but many other mild white fish so will have to see what they have in the wet market. Have a great weekend. BAM
You’re on the right track, young woman! Keep producing these innovative, clever posts that are unlike anything on WordPress and who knows what will happen!
Such a foodie, inspired by art. This is a fantastic recipe and fish cooked this way is always wonderful. What a great post.
Lol, I should have been a little more “Robert Munsch” expressive;) Glad you liked it!
Haha, there’s been a bit of backlash against the old man, taxes are a great idea! I think ‘she’ is just happy to be free and.. Well, happy;) I think a steamer is an excellent idea! Let me know how it goes, I suspect any mild white fish would work. Xo Smidge
You’re one of my biggest fans:) Thanks!!
Thanks so much.. It did end up being my new fav way to cook fish..
You’re so kind.. thank you!
I hope you do.. I loved it!
I love that description.. lively:) Thanks!
Who knew fish could turn into a work of art? I love the shadows in the pictures. It makes it feel like we’re inside a dimly lit cabin of a fishing boat or at the bottom of the sea. Of course, love the story, too! Much better than the traditional version where the woman is the greedy meanie (boooooo!).
Hahaha.. Yes, time for the “housewife” stereotype to be a little updated I think!
nice new version of the story. Some days ago I was thinking of that story with the fisherwoman and the golden fish but I had forgotten the name so I couldnt check.
Perfect flavoure combination, =P thats my type of food. love trout and cooking it in a paper bag is how my mum prepares it. Its so delicious! Your dressing sounds interessting too, thanks for sharing!
I love that you wrote up this story with your recipe! Perfect. I really love fish…though cooking it scares me, a little. I might be brave enough to try this, though!
Count me in!! I’m loving the flavours – olives, garlic, lemon….
A lovely tale that had me smiling, thank you..
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Wonderful herbed pate and photographs. Love the knife too
THIS is my new favorite post of yours. ANd that is a huge compliment, because this post has heavy competition, my dear.
loved it. I can relate so well to so many aspects of it. The time I ruined a recipe made to my first husband because my English was not good enough to understand that small t meant teaspoon and not tablespoon, and that is a huge difference in cinnamon amount for moussaka
that evening was ruined, because I allowed him to ruin it. But today I laugh about it, and my forever husband eats with a smile my worst culinary mistakes..
WOW! Before the real taste it is a great feast for my eyes… So beautiful dear Barbara, I haven’t known this recipe… seems so delicious but fascinated me your presentation as always… Thank you, with my love, nia
Kind of you to include the single malt, Smidge — I’ll just have that while the rest of you eat pate and clean the ceiling.
Wow! I love chicken liver pate but this is very interesting with the single malt. By the way, Oban is a lovely Scottish town. Been there way back in 1998.
Hmph to the ex – never more will he enjoy your music, your photographs, your poetry and your beautiful cooking! Lovely recipe…I often put brandy in my paté but am looking forward to giving it a go! Had to chuckle at you saying you are part “Scotch”…if you have any readers from that beautiful country they will flap their hands and say “och Miss McSmidge, only the whisky is Scotch, the people are Scottish” and then invite you to partake of a wee dram of their beautiful single malt
Such a funny story! I am glad he is expunged.
Love your new spring header…I want a slice of that cake!
Oh, this is truly decadent and fine. I am so glad for you that you are free of that tyranny and are courageous enough to follow your own dreams and your heart. I love coming here Smidge and I think everyone can relate to coming into “themselves” at some later date in life. It feels so good to be finally in one’s own skin. Thank you also for your words of encouragement no my blog. It really does mean so much. I am trying so hard to make gluten free delightful and not a sentence and as a seventeen-year-old, my son doesn’t seem to really notice my Herculean efforts so really, thank you.
OK, before I even READ your recipe or pour over your always lovely photos, I have to tell you, my husband’s very favorite is Oban! Leave it to you Smidge to ring his chimes!
Now, I’m headed back to the post.
Ah, gorgeous photos, as always! Love the first shot. Sorry to hear about your ex, but you are clearly much better off without him. No one should ever bring you down like that. You are such a strong and talented woman…you deserve much, much better! xx
OK, now that I’ve read it I could go on and on with comments but will try to contain myself. First of all, I don’t even know if I like pate. (generally I’m not an organ girl. organist?) And yet you’ve convinced me to give it a go. Second, May that fussy and oh-so-ungracious Valdemort find pate in his lap and on his tight little tie one day for making pate on your face all about HIM! Third, and yes I do wish the new sagacious self could have whispered a thing or two into mousey’s ear, but it was all the mistakes mousey made that eventually gave birth to wisdom so I just thank her for all the sacrifices she made and humble pie she ate! She was a dear really.
Thanks.. I’m pleased to have found a single knife and not been forced to buy a whole set!
Wow, Sally, this is just sweet of a compliment. I love that your husband is called your “forever” husband.. That is just awesome!! Xoxo Smidge
Thanks nia.. It is delicious, I’m so glad you liked it!
Hahaha, I’ll pour you a double..
I talk to myself all the time – it’s a habit that’s hard to kick. I used to make chicken liver pate many moons ago maybe it’s time to make another batch with a simdge or two of Oban single malt added to the mix. The food styling in your images is always gorgeous.
I thought it was an actual town.. Might just have to plan a wee holiday!!
Hahaha, I love this.. I wasn’t sure if Scotch was correct.. Being only part “Scottish” I wouldn’t know;) Yes.. The ex..he also thought I couldn’t write and used to laugh at my writing, gotta figure he was just jealous of so much talent;)
Hey thanks.. You’re the first to notice!! Yes, I almost typed “ex-sponged” hahaha!
It’s funny, you think they don’t notice.. But one day they will. My son (as you may recall) moved out for a short time and lived in another home. He said her cooking was great, but not like mine… And he loves that I cook every day. So… In time, I know he will reflect back and tell you how amazing you are. It’s easy for us to see how much work goes into what you’ve done because we cook. I couldn’t imagine trying to convert my recipes like you’ve done! Xoxo Smidge
Glad you´re laughing – after I hit “reply” I wondered if it sounded rude
Exes are good for helping us realise our true potential…eventually!
Haha, guess who gave me the bottle of scotch when I said that I needed one??
That was so long ago.. Who knows what makes men think they need to be so oppressive?? It’s awesome growing up and become stronger:) Thanks, Caroline! xoxo
Oh, boy. I’ve ruined some stuff in my own cooking adventures, too. Glad this time it worked out! And I love the new header images. A happy, peaceful, clean-ceilinged day to you!
Oh, wise spree, you’ve got to the point straight away.. Yes”, the humble pie and mistakes are what gives us the wisdom we need. Love.. The pate on his tight little tie” heehee
Yes.. It’s only a little worrisome when someone else notices the chatter;)
Hahaha, and to you as well! Thanks.. I like having a seasonal header and thought this looked “springy”!
That looks so appetizing! And the pictures are so High Quality!
I talk to myself all the time too. I have no doubt my children think I’m crazy at times. I just tell them to just wait, we come from a long line of “crazy” women that talk to themselves.
The pate looks delicious and I too am happy you are free of such a critical overbearing person in your life. (Incidentally, my sister calls her ex Voledemort too.)
I always enjoy hearing pieces of the lives behind the posts. We all have stories with difficult past references, and sharing elements of those histories gives us a richer context with which to appreciate accomplishments today. From humiliation to confidence is a wonderful swing, and I’m so glad you let me peek at that emotionally painful explosion all over the ceiling and self! You have so much creativity–and now I know you also have wonderful resilience. So good to celebrate that! Debra
I must admit I talk to myself all the time too! Do you think it is a kitchen thing?
And I don’t think you need to worry about pate disasters ever again – it looks perfect
And beautiful presentation!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
We’ve had non-stop sun for the past 5 days… I’m burnt, peeling and uncomfortable to a certain extent, but I’m loving it! This is a really awesome idea, it must taste nom – a nice departure from the usual suspect, brandy.
That was a funny story about your old condo. I also like your pate recipe.
This looks amazing, Smidge. And I find that giving yourself a pep talk in the kitchen always helps! Whether it’s after you drop a sheet tray on your foot or spill peppercorns all over the floor haha. I love the story
Oh, Smidge! I cannot imagine you living in the shadow of that mope. Good riddance to bad rubbish! I did chuckle over the open blender mess. I once fell asleep with eggs boiling on the stove. I woke up when they exploded and I bet there’s still eggshell imbedded in that kitchen’s wall and ceiling! Your pâté sounds delicious and, once again, your photos make it look so very appetizing. Without exception, your posts are always a joy to read.
That is a great pun! Hahaha!
You know, I think it is a kitchen thing!xo Smidge
Oh, boy, sounds like you’ve done some of that as well:)
Wow.. Soo lucky!! High awesome to actually have a suntan, um, burn!!
Oh, my godness… You must have thought you were being bombed!! What a mess that must have been.. Sorry, but it made me smile just thinking about it..
Oh, what a story. Yes, it would be so good to be able to go back in time and bite back at all the people who put us down! I make my pate in a food processor rather than a blender. The good thing about food processors is that they can’t be turned on unless the lid is firmly cemented in place. And I love your new banner images. xx
That’s exactly what I did this time.. I don’t think I had a food processor back then:) Thanks for your compliment:) I thought it looked springy! xoxo
well we all know who I talk to all day!!! and i think that I married that fella of yours about two husbands ago! I lover pate and I have never made it. yours looks good enough, to make me brave enough, to try it! have a lovely evening.. c
I would love to try this recipe, I’ve never made pate either. I do love it though, and this recipe with the malt whiskey sounds downright wonderful Smidge! Weekend recipe for me to try? I hope!! Too funny that the stain was still on the ceiling all that time later. LOL!
Your ex sounds exactly like mine! They’re good practice. For what I don’t know. Would we appreciate our true loves as much if we didn’t go through those Voldemorts?
P.S. Smidge, i keep forgetting to mention how much I LOVE your new header pictures. So pretty! That ribbon cake…..swoon!
Hahaha.. I love.. Well, your sense of humor and just about everything about you c:) xo Smidge
If you love pate, you should make it.. Any sort of pate, I was kind of shocked at how easy it is. It always seemed so mysterious and “french” looking! Ha! Yes.. Voldemorts abound, don’t they?? Xo Smidge
Thanks, Sarah.. That was a fun one to make!
Meat, booze and bread. I think this is the perfect recipe.
Okay, you have definitely taught me something new today Barbara. I never heard of whiskey pate before ever. I can’t wait to show this post to my mom
It’s such a great sipping whisky..
Hahaha, for a second I thought it read “man, booze, bread”.. not far off, eh??
That would be more up Katherine’s alley!
Hi Smidge! I love Single Malt Scotch and so looking forward to making this! By the way… I was awarded the ABC (Awesome Blog Content) Award and have now passed it along to you. Your blog is incredible, and might I say “totally awesome”.
.. and mine:)
You’re so sweet.. thank you so much! There are so many awards going around, I find I forget to post a response! So I want to make sure I thank you here “in person” first:) It’s really do thoughtful of you!
You are so very welcome! I completely enjoy your posts. There are so many blogs to read, I can’t get to all of them. So I reserve a little time for my favorites.
I caught spree peeking at your post and saw the Oban Pâté in the headline and asked her to pahleez tell me more about that. When she told me it was Smidge I had to look for myself. The pic is beautiful and the story could have been me , when Spree wasn’t looking
( save for the Valdemort thing, thats usually my part). Love everything about the post!
I was snooping around the kitchen and spied the lovely Spree reading a blog post with Oban Pâté! When she told me it was Smidge I had to check it out. The pic is beautiful and the story, well it struck me as something I would do when Spree wasn’t around ( cept for the Valdemort part, thats usually me). Loved everything about the post , thanks.
Ever since I became an attorney, I’ve grown a fondness for single malt scotch. Great idea to use it in pate!
I love all kind of paté..but I never thought herb paté exist..;-) I should try this definitely! Thank you for sharing! I’m impressed on all your posts. You are soo artistic!
Yay another “talk-to-myslef” person to add to the family – we are a special breed I will have you know!
Mandy xo
So pleased you have moved past having a horrible person in your life. Kudos to being so strong.
Brilliant pate recipe – think I shall make it for my hubby when he gets home next week.
How wonderful!
Good for you for revisiting this recipe! (And I’ve had a blender moment or two just like that…) And I freely admit that I talk to myself all the time. Hubs totally makes fun of me for it – can’t wait for the time it totally embarrases my boys.
This story brings to mind a culinary disaster at home with Ma and Pa. Mum was preparing a dinner party with something like apricot sponge with brandy cream for dessert. Foolishly she asked Dad to whisk the cream. So he did. We were all milling around with him in the corner with the whisk. ‘Should it look like this?’ he asked. ‘Like what?’. ‘This’. We looked. It had separated completely. So then after a mild fit of hysterics she decided to make brandy butter. By this time everyone was on the brandy and in a melodramtic motion she pulled the baked apricot pudding out of the oven and accidently threw/dropped it all over the floor.
But by then it didn’t really matter – the guests were plastered and no one cared.
Is that your balcony? Lovely!
I see nothing wrong in talking to yourself as long as you don’t answer.:-). I loved your post today. It struck several resonant chords. This is my first visit to your site, so I took some time to browse around. I’m so glad I did that. You’ve created a great spot to visit and I enjoyed the time I spent here. I’ll definitely be back. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Blessings…Mary
I don’t blame you for talking to yourself; you rock!
Great post – and new Gravatar pic, as well!
I’m late getting out to read this week, and I sure am glad I didn’t miss this post! What an awful date that would admonish you under such circumstances…so glad you booted him. And what beautiful pate this is…it sounds divine with the Oban added to it. Yum!
Thanks so much, Kim, I really enjoy photography!
Hahaha, love that.. I bet you’ve got a long line of masterful chefs/bakers as well! Hilarious that your sister had one of those “who shall not be named”!
I am so pleased with your comments today, Debra.. you’ve really reached to the essence of what I was going for.. how those histories give us an appreciation for the beautiful of today. Really, that is my whole blog’s purpose, I guess:) xoxo Smidge
I know! My son went there for a sleep-over and when we went to pick him up it was really strange as we approached the place and realized where we were!
Well, hello there Mr. Grateful Guinea Pig of spree’s:) I am so pleased you came by and felt moved to leave such a lovely comment.. it made my day. And so did your lovely Gravatar portrait! Very endearing, indeed! I wish you better luck with your blender (when spree’s not overseeing things).. if you’re watching her, you will turn into a splendid chef, the world’s first Guinea Pig Chef! xo Smidge
That’s so cool.. I didn’t know you were an attorney! Then single malt scotch is definitely in order for you!! xo Smidge
Well, then I’m really glad you’ve come by to see this recipe. Thanks so much for your compliments:) xo Smidge
Ahhh, so I’ve become a member of an exclusive club, then? How absolutely delightful! I couldn’t be more pleased to join you!! xoxo Smidge
Thank you!
I think blenders are just a poor design:) It has nothing to do with the skill of the person running the machine! Must have been designed by a man! xo Smidge
That is an epic story.. of such proportions that I think you must reinvent the brandy with the apricot pudding and post it for everyone to see! I love that everyone was too plastered to care! It must have been quite the scene and laugh! xo Smidge
I like to sit and work there (on warm days.. with a blanket these days!!) xo Smidge
I’m so glad you have Mary!! I love meeting new people and will make sure to read your posts in the future! Cheers to a happy connection!! xo Smidge
Hahaha… for those of you reading my comment section.. The Hook is awesome as well.. you should check out his blog and look for his new book coming out! It will be a great read indeed!!! xo Smidge (and thank you!)
And I continue to boot to this day! Boot, boot, boot, anyone who isn’t kind or thoughtful to either myself or those I love:) Thanks so much, Betsy! xoxo Smidge
As a vegetarian, I’ll skip the pate (until I’m creative enough to figure out how to convert the livers to walnuts), but I will gladly have a sip or two or more of the Oban Single Malt Scotch.
Oban on it’s own is definitely doable:) I’d love to see you do something with walnuts! Way cool!!
Smidge, I love pate, but I’ve never ever tried making my own. Yours looks perfectly rustically elegant in the glass jars with string! I like that you didn’t add cream to it! Must put it on the bucket list..
xoxo
Hi ,
This looks wonderful. Never had pate before but would love to try this.
Lots of single malts on the shelf. I think there is a bottle of Oban among them. Caol Isla is my favorite. And I loooooooovvvvvvveeeee paté. We made a country terrine at Christmas, but a smooth paté remains my favorite style.
You are such a brave cook. I have a terrible pate storie and though I pride myself on trying any food…I’m not sure I can ever try it again (food poisoning)…BUT…I still love to read your recipes and stories!!! And it looks great!
Oh, that has to be the worst!! I’m sorry to hear that.. I don’t think I’d recommend trying this one then.. Kind of like my relationship with calamari… xo
To make a long story short, it was actually my mom who got the poisoning, but I was with her and we were in Paris…all in my mind as a bad, bad thing!
But no.. not in Paris!! Your poor mom!! Poor you!!
Perhaps it deserves a blog post!!!
Ha – as a Scot, consider me flapping my hands and saying ‘och!’. But only a little
I talk to myself often – probably more often than I realise! I’m also lucky enough to live near enough Oban, it’s a really pretty town.
Hilarious!! Lucky you!!! Near Oban itself.. What a dream!!
What a funny story and what a disastrous start to the new year ! I hope the rest of the evening went better ! And I think I will have to make this pate – it looks so good.
My memory of the rest of the evening is a bit fuzzy.. it was so long ago, but I’m sure my friends rallied! I love this pate!