The shared table group meets on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month, sharing a theme-inspired meal.

Leader: Elizabeth Branagan

Email: emmeng@hotmail.com

Note: A community house fee of $2 applies

“We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink.”

Greek philosopher Epicurus in 300BC

Elizabeth Branagan, who runs the shared table group today, is just as passionate about people as she is about good food. She encourages everyone to join, regardless of their cooking skills, as the group is all about enjoying good food and building connections.

Elizabeth believes that food has an amazing ability to bring people together, spark friendships, and encourage people to try new things.

Our group consists of about fifteen to sixteen regular members, but we always welcome new people to join us. Don’t worry if you think you can’t cook. As long as you enjoy eating, that’s all that matters. If you’re short on time and can’t cook, please bring something else the group can share. The essence of our group is all about sharing and coming together as a community.

Christmas Shared Table

Our International Christmas theme was a success. We all thought outside the box, made untried recipes and learned new titbits from our foodie friends. Borscht soup and feta nibblies, for starters, made by Bev and Phil. Not only had many of us not made Borscht before, but we had also not tasted it. Interestingly both Alison and Jill made a vegetable crumble. Sweet potato from Canada and swede crumble from Finland. Both are very enjoyable and could be included in our everyday meals.

This was complemented by Jeannette’s whole-boned chicken roulade stuffed with delicacies. She may even have a shared table event where she teaches us how to bone a chook. Now that would be interesting. My offering was a Bavarian Apple/ Chicken sausage hash. (of course, sausages from Bavaria) Carol delighted us with a Black Forest Cake, amazing! Jill Grant returned once more to the shared table and provided two desserts, pepper cookies and the most divine sticky panforte accompanied by Tahbilk Muscat.

In lieu of Alice, we had Benson’s other best buddy, Susie, come along with minced tarts. She also gave us a short synopsis of the history of such tarts, having come originally from the East, and the recipe included both meat and fruit. We will meet again in January for those members who are in town and wish to catch up. Wednesday 17th at River Street Park: We have tried this park twice before to disastrous results, so perhaps we are lucky the third time. The barbecue is working, YAY, so bring your meat, chair, drinkies and eating utensils for personal use. Plus, a small nibble platter or a salad or dessert to share.

Wishing you all a safe and joyous Christmas period. I hope you are surrounded by those you love and remain in good health. Till next we meet, your friend in food.