When I was a little girl, I waited all year long for the days when I could take a little break away from my brother, sister, and maybe even my mom and dad as well, and spend time with my Bachan in Pasasdena. Bachan (or obaa-chan) means Grandma in Japanese and my Bachan is the most caring, loving and strong person I know. Bachan’s birthday was on 7/21 and this year she turned 89 years young.  Last year was a very special birthday for her because in Japanese culture the number 88, when written, resembles the symbol for rice. The prominence of rice in Japanese culture is immense and rice symbolizes purity and goodness. The 88^th birthday is celebrated as a joyous and happy occasion. We threw a wonderful party that I wrote about here for that very special day where I reconnected with the flavors of my childhood and Japanese culture.

This week I was lucky enough to be able to teach Kids Yoga in Pasadena to some amazing 6 and 7 year-olds, so naturally I saw it fit to spend some time with Bachan. We told stories, played jenga, watched TV, snacked on Mexican sweet bread and senbei (Japanese rice crackers), ate delicious food, took a walk to the market and went grocery shopping, but most of all, enjoyed each other’s company like I did so many times as a child. Those times, as well as these, are the memories I love; those nostalgic moments of pure love and happiness, things I’m so grateful to be able to experience as well as to have experienced. My Bachan is one of the largest inspirations I have for cooking. She taught me so many things in the kitchen, even though she’ll probably deny it to anyone who asks her. Her inspiration in my life is so prominent that on her birthday, I just really wanted to say thank you, Bachan, for everything.

Bachan knows that I cook often for everyone around me. She always made big meals for my dad and his two brothers and their dad (my Jii-chan) as well as cooking for extended family and friends. She always pats me on the back and says that I did so much work—in those moments I always feel proud.  Bachan wanted to make me dinner the night I stayed with her and I don’t think I could ever have said no. We had a delicious dinner of rice, chirashi, steamed broccoli, green beans and korokke (Japanese potato cakes filled with ground beef and fried in panko bread crumbs).  Everything was perfect. She brought out sauces and miso and it was just as I remembered it all. There’s something to be said about eating a childhood dish that hasn’t changed for over 25 years. I love you, Bachan! Happy birthday.

cheers

-Unrivaledkitch