Every New Year's day, we invite family and friends to our open house for feasting and relaxation. With a nod to Japanese traditions as well as tried-and-true recipes, it is a way for us to wish all who visit, the first of many days filled with deep family ties, strong friendships and good fortune. Clear soup with baked mochi (soft rice cake symbolizing happiness) is served as the first entree so that everyone will have a joyful, clear future. Onishime is the Japanese version of chicken stew and many of the vegetables such as carrots, burdock, bamboo shoots, satoimo (potato) and lotus (for the wheel of life) are cooked with the chicken to honor the deep roots of family and friends. The centerpiece of the meal is a cooked lobster signifying longevity and bravery and the long feelers are meant to reach into the future. Although not part of the Japanese traditions, I have also added filet mignon, my late mother-in-laws frozen fruit salad, baked pies, spumoni ice cream and holiday cookies. This year, dear friends John Bagnasco and his wife Shannon, Bryan Main and Dayna, Julia Bauer and her daughter Elizabeth as well as our family were able to dine and celebrate together. Cheers to all of you for a wonderful 2011!
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