Dish and Tell

A collection of tasty dishes accompanied by their “tells”—the stories and family histories that heighten the flavors and enhance the sense of comfort these lovingly prepared foods bring.

Every family has certain recipes they treasure, the beloved foods that show up at potlucks, holidays, or other special occasions. Often these dishes are tied to a childhood memory or remind us of a loved one whose signature dish has brought joy to the table through the years.

Author Sarah Peterson points to Grandma Hilma’s Swedish almond rusks, Aunt Ede’s meatballs, or her mom’s chocolate chip shortbread cookies as cherished recipes she turns to over and over again when she cooks for family and friends. 

Dish and Tell: Recipes from the Heart highlights celebrated dishes from Peterson’s recipe box—and collects stories from other passionate home cooks who opened their kitchens to share their own tried-and-true recipes. Peterson takes readers along as she visits, cooks, and bakes with friends old and new to present a smorgasbord of family favorites. She serves up stories about the people behind the dishes and offers special tips and tricks from the keepers of these recipes. 

From straightforward comfort food like church egg dish or meatloaf muffins to special-occasion dazzlers like sandwich loaf or potica, this collection invites readers to embrace the opportunity to “dish and tell”—and discover why these vintage recipes deserve a spot at the table.