Dula Delight, by Michele Dula Baum
by Michele Dula Baum
Ecclesiastes 4: 9 “Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do.”
When we share food, we share ourselves. In biblical times, offering hospitality to a stranger was of paramount importance because today you may have food, shelter and water, but tomorrow you may be in need of them. Small groups and far-apart settlements were havens for the traveler, just as travelers were important sources of news of the outside world for the people who lived in remote areas.
In the 21st century, our need for friends, loved ones and neighbors is just as great. We especially need to look out for those among us who are without food, shelter or warmth. It is difficult to know how to begin, but we must begin.
This is a picnic recipe that combines macaroni, potato chunks and hard-boiled eggs into a harmonious whole. There are no correct proportions to share. Amounts depend on how much you want to make and how many people are coming to the table. Seasoning is to taste.
A college roommate, Lisa (an Italian surname lost to time) made this. She wouldn’t share food so I didn’t get to taste hers, but experimented until I found something that worked for me. It’s been a hit at many potluck–so much so that about 30 years ago, a friend dubbed it “Dula Delight.” We just call it “Delight.”
You will need:
potatoes
elbow macaroni
eggs
mayonnaise
Lowry’s Season Salt
1. Boil eggs, cubed potatoes, and macaroni in separate saucepans as normal until cooked.
2. Peel the eggs and place on the bottom of a bowl large enough to hold all ingredients. After the eggs are mashed, it doesn’t matter what order the other ingredients are added.
3. Smash eggs up with potato masher; dust with Lowry’s
4. Add cooked, cubed potatoes or mac; dust with Lowry’s
5. Add whatever you didn’t add in step 4; dust with Lowry’s
6. Add mayonnaise and stir to bind
Have a taste to see whether there’s enough seasoning for you. I usually dust a little more Lowry’s on top of the mixture before serving. I prefer this salad warm but it can also be served chilled.
English