la cocina

The recording proceeded with the dedication and experimentation of fresh ingredients and fresh ideas from the kitchen. La cocina symbolically is the heart of the home as it holds the fire, nourishment, and table. It serves as a comfort space, warmed by the hearth and gathering of the family. The Bustamante kitchen (of my host family) provided that warmth and seasoning of my South American adventure:

Dishes from various regions were prepared here. Orange placemats would cover a checkered, green tablecloth. Glass bowls of hearty soups were served with a spicy, pepper salsa called llajua. Fresh-squeezed juice would moisten those lips holding conversations of current events such as the revocation of the local leader. Segundos would follow as the dial of the hand radio would search a new signal, a new signal to add further commotion to the lunchtime affair. Potatoes would certainly be served, either boiled, fried, or baked. The grandkids would negotiate lesser portions of food and larger portions of ketchup. Eventually, the conversation would slow with the onset of digestion. A piece of fresh fruit, perhaps a cherimoya (if in season), would be sliced and passed around the table. Finally, each person would retire from the table, offering “provechos” to one another before slipping to his or her bedroom for mid-day siesta. The table would also rest in silence, awaiting the next gathering of dishes and mouths.