My bean club order came today, a homely quarterly treat.
I’m fascinated by that word, homely, and how it has two almost-opposite meanings:
home·ly/ˈhōmlē/adjective
home·ly/ˈhōmlē / adjective
- 1.NORTH AMERICAN unattractive in appearance. Similar: unattractive plain plain-featured plain-looking plain as a pikestaff ordinary-looking unprepossessing unlovely ill-favored ugly …Opposite: attractive
- BRITISH(of a place or surroundings) simple but cozy and comfortable, as in one’s own home.”a modern hotel with a homely atmosphere “Similar: cozy home-like homey comfortable snug welcoming friendly
Although we are by no means vegetarian, for so many reasons, I frequently cook meat-free meals. Since I discovered Rancho Gordo that often means beans. Beans bubbling in a clay pot is certainly a familiar sight in my kitchen. I value cozy and comfortable, but actually I think beans are often beautiful as well.
Besides the beans, I appreciate the whimsy of Rancho Gordo. Old Mexican movie posters. Annual calendars that make me smile all year. And Stardust which is calling out to me: “Make margaritas.”
I met RG’s owner, Steve Sando, once at a farmers market. He was on hand when I visited the store, too. Most of my interaction with RG is on line, but even there it’s easy to recognize that this is a special company. Great customer service. A bean club. A special facebook group for bean club members. I feel that I belong.
Food isn’t just food. Shopping isn’t just shopping. I REALLY dislike big grocery stores, and I avoid them as much as possible. I’m grateful for farmers and vendors of real food.
Cook beans with me?