HUNGRY GERALD

There are few things more comforting on a cold winter day than a steaming bowl of chili (Texas style, no beans). And, that’s what BSK served gifted daughter Lesley R. and Lesley’s brillânt husband, Massimo R., when they came to dinner. a few nights ago. Rhode Island was shivering in an Arctic below zero chill.  But, all was warm and cozy at HG/BSK’s Central Falls, RI, loft.   BSK has often made chili from the Wick Fowler mix but this time she made the dish from BSK’s own blend. So good and modestly picante. Grated cheddar, chopped onions and Mrs. Renfrew’s Salsa topped the steaming bowls. Everybody had second (and third) helpings. BSK made a large pot of the good stuff so there was an ample amount leftover for dinner and lunch the next day. HG has always loved chili. When HG was eight, HG would earn tips from errands at Kingsbridge Road markets, the Bronx neighborhood where HG’s family lived. HG took his pennies (1937, a Great Depression year) to a local diner.  “Bowl o’ Red,” the little guy ordered. Big bowl of pleasure for a dime. Years later when HG was a journalist headquartered on Manhattan’s E. 45th Street, HG would dine at a local chili “parlor”. A bowl cost a few dollars and an option was to have it over spaghetti (a very filling meal). Many pleasant memories.