Actually, in hosting and in life in general, people who make it seems easy and chill and effortless sometimes do a load of work (just like Joanna does with this blog). I host a lot and like others above me said, I asked guests beforehand if they are vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, have allergies or diabetes, then shop and cook accordingly so no one of my guests will feel uncomfortable. If you cook a meal that everyone can eat then the party goes smoothly (and chill and effortless). So, yes, sometimes it takes a lot of efforts and consideration (and love!) from the host’s side to make things look effortless so people can chill :)

Ahhh basbousa is one of my all-time favourites! It reminds me of holidays spent at my aunts’ houses in Cairo (my family is Palestinian but my aunts have lived in Egypt since the seventies). I’ve tried to recreate it several times but I haven’t found the perfect recipe yet, if you have a go-to recipe I would love to hear about it!

I always liked Mom Fitche’s peanut butter cookies; peanut butter brown sugar, egg and salt. So much peanut butter flavor and GF! ( if that matters)

That’s why I portion and freeze mine!