A Good Friend Related this Story:
Maxine was a superb cook and well worth emulating. However, there was only ONE way to do things when you cooked. It was HER way. Several things come to mind.
I was taught NEVER to boil corn or it gets tough. She INSISTED that it be boiled and THEN, sometimes grilled. I was taught to NEVER boil eggs or they get a black ring around the yolk. One should put the eggs in cool water, bring it to a boil and turn off the heat, covering the pan for 15 minutes. Maxine insisted they be BOILED for 15 minutes, as 'there was no other safe way to eat them." I've forgotten her way of cooking rice, but she was upset with me when I didn't do it her way.
Oh........We came from Idaho, and strawberry shortcake was nearly unheard of, as strawberries were expensive and not all that available. A single store bought biscuit with a tablespoon of whipping cream and 5-6 berries was a REAL treat to us. She invited us over after church to have strawberry short cake and brought out a plate heaping full of homemade biscuits, dozens of strawberries, and whipping cream nearly dripping off the edges. There were only 4 of us there to share it, which meant we would each get a LOT....my husband and I were thrilled. THEN she brought out 3 more plates, one for each of us. We couldn't BELIEVE it......A whole plate of deliciousness to ourselves.