People talk about their love language, whether it’s a kind word, a gift, an act of service or a hug.
For us, our love language is time at the table sharing a good meal, delicious wine and great conversations that linger into the night.
In fact, it was the many meals we shared over the years, that inspired LoveFeast Table. There is something sacred that happens when you pull up a chair to a common table with a group of people. With candles flickering, scents of roasted lamb and caramelized onions wafting from the kitchen, the pop of the cork as the wine is being poured and passed…the stage is set for everyone to settle in and just be.
Back in the day, when both of our families lived in the same town in Maryland, we were a part of a progressive dinner group. Every month, a different couple prepared and hosted the dinner. The rest of us would bring wine. We were all foodies, so every meal was thoughtfully prepared with the freshest ingredients. Most of the women in the group were artists, so the table was always creative and beautiful. We were at different stages of life. A few of the couples were newly married and others of us had a few kids in tow. But, what we loved about those evenings were the depth of conversations, hearing and getting to know one another better. We heard about each other’s pasts and passions, future dreams and goals. We shared parenting tips, joys and hardships. It was a special time.
Now, when our families get together, there is always one night carved out when we go the extra mile to make a special meal, light the candles, pull out the linen napkins, set the table as we would for our guests, sketch the menu on our chalkboard and settle in for a long night that is composed by the conversation. Our children know the drill, the littlest will curl up on a grown up’s lap as the candles slowly melt down. The teenagers don’t rush but pull their chairs closer to the table to engage all the more. They’ve come to value the sacredness at the table, (even requesting five course meals for 16 year old birthday parties.) They know the value.
Today we are part of a virtual dinner party with some of our dear friends. We have all been inspired by Shauna Neiquest’s new book, Bread & Wine~A love letter to life around the table and decided to each create one of the recipes from the book. Being chocolate lovers, we volunteered to make Simplest Dark Chocolate Mousse.
- 2 Cups chilled heavy cream, divided
- 1½ Cups dark chocolate chips
- ¼ Cup honey
- Stir ¾ cup cream, chocolate chips and honey in a saucepan over low heat until smooth. Cool for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate bowl, beat ¾ cup cream to soft peaks. Fold cream into chocolate mixture in 2 additions.
- Divide mousse among three ramekins or glasses. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- Whisk the remaining ½ cup cream to firm peaks. Spoon a little bit of cream on top of mousse. Top with berries, nuts, chocolate shaving, chocolate covered espresso bean or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Be sure to taste each course of our virtually progressive dinner party.
Blog-hop to a new table for every course, meet new friends and pick up a delicious recipe from Shauna Niequist’s new book, Bread & Wine: A love letter to life around the table, at every stop. We’d like to send you home with the gift of Shauna’s words, so be sure to enter the giveaway at the end of the party!
- Bacon-Wrapped Dates at DearAbbyLeigh.com
- Sullivan Street Bread at LeighKramer.com
- The Green Well’s Michigan Harvest Salad at theBlahBlahBlahger.com
- Annette’s Enchiladas at SarahBessey.com
- Simplest Dark Chocolate Mousse at LoveFeastTable.com
- A Bread & Wine Giveaway at HollywoodHousewife.com
