When my husband and I first began our courtship, we watched the beloved film My Big Fat Greek Wedding. As the scene unfolded, showcasing Toula’s boisterous extended family gatherings, I couldn’t help but remark, “That’s exactly like my family’s holiday get-togethers.” In contrast, when the focus shifted to Ian’s subdued family meal, my husband Dan dryly commented, “That’s more akin to my family’s holiday traditions.” It was a moment of recognition, a shared understanding of the diverse dynamics that exist within families.
Both sides of my family are tightly knit, fostering a sense of togetherness that is cherished. Our Christmas celebrations were always held with my father’s side of the family, a merry gathering of relatives in the cozy confines of my aunt and uncle’s home in suburban Detroit. The air would be filled with the aromas of Lebanese and Polish delicacies, showcasing the cultural fusion that defined our festive feasts. On the menu, a highlight was always my Uncle George’s signature ham, gleaming with a glaze made from Vernors ginger ale. Complementing this savory centerpiece was the comforting presence of Cheesy Potato Casserole, a dish lovingly prepared by either my Aunt Laurie or my mother.
Ah, Cheesy Potato Cassole – a timeless classic that graces many holiday tables with its indulgent allure. Variations abound, from hash browns to diced potatoes, yet a unifying element remains – the use of canned soup, butter, and sour cream, crowned with a golden layer of crunchy potato chips (Better Made, for those hailing from Detroit like myself). While undeniably delectable, this culinary gem carries a hefty load of saturated fat and sodium, a concern for my family grappling with health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Driven by a desire to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile, I embarked on a culinary experiment. A simple white sauce, bolstered by strained yogurt, replaced the traditional components, delivering the same creamy tang with reduced saturated fat content. To mimic the beloved crunch of the topping, unsweetened cornflakes emerged as a surprising yet satisfying alternative. Not only did they offer a lower sodium option compared to potato chips, but they also introduced a nuanced flavor dimension to the ensemble.
Eager to share my revamped creation, I discreetly introduced it at our Christmas Eve gathering, curious to gauge the reception. To my delight, the revised casserole garnered praise for its rich creaminess, with many expressing a preference for the cornflake topping over the conventional chips. A cousin astutely observed that amidst the salty notes of the meal (thanks to the ham), the cornflakes provided a harmonious balance, enhancing the overall dining experience.
As the years have unfolded, my Christmas traditions have evolved, nudging me away from the bustling gatherings of my cousins.
