Thai Coconut Barbecued Ribs
I don’t mind sharing with you that I’m a little burned out. Even a little bummed out and a little stressed out. Maybe collectively a lot of all of the above.
And I just read that comment from my sister under the double double cake, and it made me all teary, which is probably very therapeutic. This looming Big Birthday must be getting to me more than I realize.
It could also have something to do with my to-do list. All good things on my plate, of course, but this week I’m writing for Swerve (four pages, plus photos!), the Herald, City Palate, Parents Canada, and over at Babble. I made samosas using the Nenshi family recipe this morning on CBC, and attended the opening party for the new ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen today, and presented to the CADA board for grant money for a community event yesterday, and emceed a morning brunch and talk at the Glenbow on Sunday. And last week I got to judge a latte art competition and teach/oversee a Soup Sisters class, and do and attend a bunch of other stuff, and I’m really very lucky. Where most people keep their time management skills I have a need to not miss out on anything.
Tonight I’m up late trying to put together a devil-vampire costume, putting together recipes and shopping lists for 3 back to back cooking classes I’m teaching at the Cooking Room in Red Deer on Thursday, and trying to figure out what gory things I’ll be making on BT early in the morning on Friday, and when exactly I’m going to prep it all. I’m working on another project that launches on Friday that I’m excited about – I’ll fill you in on it then, and Sue and I just got the last of our bean book edits in (but still haven’t finished doing all the photographs), and this weekend I have to plan and prep and tape a segment for Good Bite, and then there’s a Monday night event and another cooking class next Wednesday (theme: bacon), the night before we leave for New York.
Have I told you yet that we’re going to New York? I’ve always wanted to go. We’ve of course chosen one of the busiest (read: priciest) times of year to go, and have nearly maxed out our credit cards just booking flights and finding somewhere to stay. We’re still pretty clueless about what to do once we get there, I haven’t had a chance to go through all the recommendations in my inbox, and while we’re getting personal, I’ll confess on Mike’s behalf that he has a horrible fear of flying and hasn’t done it in about 10 years except once for a funeral, which was a bit of an anomalous situation. So he’s a stressed out wreck and I’m hoping it doesn’t a) go sharply downhill over the next week, or b) trigger an outbreak of gout, causing him to be unable to walk once we get to New York.
It’s really a shame that stress doesn’t count as a cardio workout.
Don’t you love it when I get all sleep deprived and cathartic?
Let’s get back to the ribs.
Yesterday, after spending the afternoon lost in the vicinity of Spruce Meadows looking for a convention I was supposed to be speaking at, finding it an hour and a half late (having toured Bridlewood and Somerset and stopping to buy a map, even, which turned out to not help at all because the address was wrong to begin with, and on top of it Google maps sent me to an industrial park and I wound up beside the main sorting centre for Canada Post) I fumbled through my bit, then came back into town at rush hour trying to come up with a reasonable birthday dinner for Mike that might seem like it had been planned. Mothers’ Little Helper was stuck in my head, and I was tempted to buy a frozen steak, just because. But then I remembered I had frozen ribs, ones that had been preroasted so really only needed thawing and a quick revival on the barbecue.
They’re ones I made for CBC a month or so ago – they seem to have stuck out in peoples’ memories, having been marinated in a slurry of coconut milk, ginger, garlic, fresh cilantro, brown sugar and lemongrass. Seems like a thoughtful birthday dinner, don’t you think?
Thai Coconut Barbecued Ribs
adapted from Bon Appétit, September 1995
2 racks pork ribs
1 14 oz. (398 mL) can coconut milk
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (stems too)
1/2 packed cup golden brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 shallots, chopped
3 Tbsp. chopped garlic
2 Tbsp. chopped peeled fresh ginger
1 stalk lemongrass, choppedPlace ribs on a rimmed baking sheet, cover tightly with foil and cook for 2 1/2-3 hours at 300F.
Combine coconut milk, cilantro, brown sugar, soy sauce, shallots, garlic, ginger and lemongrass in a food processor and process until almost smooth. Transfer marinade to a large baking dish, add ribs and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat) or preheat broiler. Remove ribs from marinade; reserve marinade. Grill or broil ribs until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes. Transfer to platter and tent with foil to keep warm. Transfer marinade to a small saucepan and boil for 1 minute. Serve ribs with marinade.
October 26 2010 11:34 pm | freezable and on the grill and pork
Wine Out Loud on 27 Oct 2010 at 6:49 am #
Words of wisdom from my 60 year-old friend Lida: ‘dahling, life is just getting started at 40′. Happy Birthday!
Manon from ONtario on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:16 am #
Just so you know…I’m 43 and still kicking
Julie, I so understand your schedule…I’m there with you girl!
PatW on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:23 am #
Hang in there Julie! If it helps, I can tell you how much you always brighten my day both here and on the CBC.
Lana in South Mountain (ON) on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:39 am #
Happy Birthday to Mike!
Those ribs look good..John would eat ribs every day if I didn’t care about his heart and his waistline.
It’s okay to feel cathartic and a little teary. You are one busy woman and even in your “quiet” times, are writing this blog!
I’ll be in touch soon, my friend.
xo
Kathy on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:44 am #
Happy Birthday Mike. For your present from me, may I suggest an Ativan before flying?
I too wish stress burned calories coz God knows I’ve had enough of it this month- but for me it does take away my appetite so that’s sorta the same thing.
Hang in there Julie, and enjoy New York.
Kathy on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:45 am #
Oh yes and Happy Birthday Julie too from one October baby to another! January must have been really, really cold, given the amount of people I know who were born in October
Erica B. on 27 Oct 2010 at 8:14 am #
Happy Birthday Mike!!
Julie I dunno how you do it-that’s a lot of balls to juggle. Hang in there sweetee!
jake on 27 Oct 2010 at 9:28 am #
busy girl! burn-out is bad, take it easy.
Re: New York. I’m heading there in a couple of weeks too. A zillion things on the do/see list, but Manhattans at the Algonquin (channeling Dorothy Parker has to be a good thing), and a selection of dive bars/music venues in Brooklyn are quickly moving to the top of the list.
Christine on 27 Oct 2010 at 10:46 am #
Julie
I love reading your blog. You brighten my day and inspire me, and I don’t even “know” you even though I feel like I do! Working at the children’s hospital reminds me everyday that lots of people just want to make it to 10, or 15 or 20. It’s tough when we see the wrinkles and the changes in our bodies, but Oh, we are so blessed to get to see those things. We can have a little pity party (maybe with double double cake!) and then we must move on. Take care and happy birthday to you and yours.
JulieVR on 27 Oct 2010 at 10:51 am #
You’re so right! I’ve had friends who would have loved to have made it to 40. Thanks for the reminder!
Donna on 27 Oct 2010 at 11:54 am #
Happy Birthday Mike and Julie !
I’d have believed the posters who suggested 3-0. 40 must be the new 30- you look great.
My DH has a dislike of flying, too. However he has discovered that he needs to take a plane to get to some really neat places, so he does.
Your schedule is brutal – enjoy a break in NY.
rose on 27 Oct 2010 at 12:21 pm #
Hi Julie
Ah! 40! I can look back now and see that the 40th marked my true start of being an adult and it’s fantastic! Feelings of being more empowered, doing what you want or you need, when you need to. Not being afraid to say NO to what you don’t want to do. It doesn’t start right away but grows each year. Boy, by the time I’m 65 I’ll be one bossy you know what! Also, if you’re thinking kidlets at all I had my third at age 45 and it’s been fabulous.
Enjoy New York and go to Canal Street for cheap purses and scarves….
Rose
Stacey on 27 Oct 2010 at 1:20 pm #
Just remember to breathe….often, and slowly…and somethimes, just for the sake of doing it, and not because your’re panicking!
ENJOY New York, if anyone deserves a vacation, it’s you. I hope that you don’t bring your computer with you, although on that same note, it’d be fun to have you blogging your appetizing updates from a variety of bathrooms along the way.
Fine women are like fine wine, they get better with age. You’re top shelf, Lady!
molly on 27 Oct 2010 at 1:48 pm #
From one Scorpio to another? It’s the best time for a birthday (ESPECIALLY those that end in zeroes!)
Hang tight, enjoy the ride, and a double double happy to you
colesangel on 27 Oct 2010 at 2:37 pm #
Happy Birthdays!
Your schedule is nuts…it’s tough, but maybe a new word would help? try NO. just once, to see how it goes?
age is just a number…I’m with Christine..i am blessed to be getting wrinkles.i’ve lost so many people who would have been amazing at 40 that i am reminded every day to be grateful for my time.
have fun in New York…thanks for the rib recipe YUM and remember that there are people who care and will help if you need it!
Robyn on 27 Oct 2010 at 2:52 pm #
re: your time management skills -> you have a condition that my friend Nicole calls FOMO – fear of missing out! it’s not a bad thing, just results in a full calendar and a lack of free time
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! you will have a blast in NYC!
Vincci on 27 Oct 2010 at 2:58 pm #
Darling Julie, I don’t have any more words of wisdom than what’s already been said, but hang in there! I think I don’t just speak for myself when I say that I admire all that you’ve put on your plate, and really, we know that it’s a lot and I’m sure people will be more than willing to cut you some slack! I agree with colesangel that it’s time to be assertive and use the word “No” – you’re not disappointing anyone because we all know you have a good reason!
Happy birthday (from a fellow Scorpio) and enjoy your time in New York! I hope I don’t hear from you until afterwards!
GynGirl on 27 Oct 2010 at 4:46 pm #
I too find myself often overbooked and close to burn out (busy mother of two and a physician on the verge of 40) – hang in there! Your spots on CBC and your blog inspire me to cook creatively for my family so thank you!
Enjoy NYC as you deserve the break … I would suggest one of the food & walking tours (www.foodsofny.com/) … somehow the exercise makes you feel less guilty about the calories consumed!!
Cathy on 27 Oct 2010 at 5:42 pm #
40 is terrific!! Embrace every minute. But, 50, as scary as that sounds ( and is ) is more empowering, enlightening and it is getting rid of judging, critisizing and trying to win.
Life is not a contest. We are all here for a reason and you are fulfilling that purpose more than most.
Happy Birthday!
Jenbird on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:18 pm #
Having just celebrated the Big Birthday myself, I can tell you that 40 is the new 30. Really. Happy birthday, Julie! You’re an amazing gal.
thepinkpeppercorn on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:35 pm #
OMG! If I was going to NYC, the least thing I would be experiencing would be stress… sheer bliss it would be! I can’t wait to go back, I miss it so…. I’ll gladly write you a list, but there isn’t much bad there. Enjoy!!!! I hope you do get a bit of a reprieve!
BC Barb on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:40 pm #
Hi Julie, A few years ago my son and his young family were in NYC for a week to attend a wedding. Not knowing the city, he found an orgsnization of New Yorkers anxious to show off their city (free) He told them the ages of the girls, the family interests and places & types of `real New York“. They were met at their hotel by a young retired gent who took them to neighbourhoods & then the usual sites they wanted to experience. These world travellers enjoyed it tremendously. Sounded interesting to me.
Barb on 27 Oct 2010 at 7:42 pm #
Wow. I think I would be overwhelmed, too. Do you need a secretary?
lovetocook on 27 Oct 2010 at 9:20 pm #
New York?? Lucky you! Wish you had told us sooner – we rent a great apartment in Gramercy, 3 Ave at 25 St. Spacious quiet well equipped and a much better deal than the hotels.
40 is just the beginning of the best. You don’t even have to slow down for 20 years. Stay well and happy and keep up the good work (You could say ‘no’ once in a while)
Kari on 27 Oct 2010 at 10:00 pm #
Ironic…I just went to NYC to celebrate my 40th that is happening next month! Amazing city…so much to do! Shopping, Broadway shows, city tours and restaurants…just to name a few! You will want to walk a lot, so stay healthy!
Cathy N in Inglewood Calgary on 28 Oct 2010 at 11:19 am #
OK… I just celebrated my 60th with a trip to Tuscany with my best bud (my hubby)!!! Shock to me to realize that in years I am that old… even more of a shock is that I feel about 30! When I was young I thought once you got to be an ‘old cout’ you’d feel old inside too! Not so!
I can’t wait to try yet another of your yummy rib recipes. Happy birthday to both Mike and you and have a great time in NYC (one of the great cities of the world that I have yet to get to – it’s on my bucket list!).
mmac on 28 Oct 2010 at 12:15 pm #
Happy Birthday Julie. Great comments and much wisdom here. Nothing to add except, as my mother (who turned 86 Monday and had her third child at 42) always says about another birthday, “It beats the alternative.” Enjoy NY. I hope it’s a wonderful trip
(And Robyn, I love FOMO. That’s a keeper.
Louise on 22 May 2011 at 10:42 am #
That?s not just logic. That?s really ssienble.