Here's an unexpected opportunity. The management of Happy Woman Magazine liked my letter about my experience with using their rack of lamb recipe so much that they've been hounding me for more contributions. Well, after consulting my crystals in my quiet place for a few hours I decided to put up a few of my own recipes and cooking adventures. At last somebody appreciates my flair en le cuisine. - Vicki Witt
I Miss You Tiramisu (A Recipe for the Broken-Hearted)
By Vicki Witt
My therapist tells me that I've finally settled into the acceptance stage of my breakup with Dwayne. Thank God for that, because the last eight months have been hell. The one thing that got me through this tough period, besides cigarettes and vodka I mean, is this recipe for Tiramisu.
When I found out that Dwayne was cheating on me for the fifth time, my friend Ethan took me out for an impromptu counseling session at his favorite café.
"I just don't know what I want." I said, that telltale choke in my weary voice. Poor absent-minded Ethan thought I was talking about life and love; but I meant the menu.
"Have a Tiramisu" he said after being corrected.
"No thanks" I said pulling my favorite Gucci purse up into view "I have plenty of Kleenex." After a short and confusing exchange he simply ordered for me. Thus I was introduced to this wonderful Italian dessert. I ate two and a half slices that night with a bottle of red wine to wash it down. When we left I whispered into Ethan's ear that I wanted to go back to his place because I was full of sugar, liquor, and love. He told me that his boyfriend probably wouldn't be impressed and just dropped me home with a peck on the cheek. Once in bed my mind wavered between Ethan, Dwayne, and Tiramisu. This is the perfect dessert to eat when you're wallowing in self-pity. The recipe below is a pretty basic one, although I've added my alterations and commentary in Italics.
Ingredients:
6 large eggs
1 1/3 cups sugar
5 tablespoons brandy (or 3 cups brandy if you make it a la Vicki)
1 1/2 pounds mascarpone cheese
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup instant espresso powder
3/4 cup chilled whipping cream
44 (about) crisp Italian ladyfinger cookies (from two 7-ounce packages)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup powdered sugar
PAGE 1 OF 2 Next>> Preparation
©2001 Ian Roberts
About the author:
Ian Roberts is a recent graduate from Dalhousie University and an unabashed film snob. He is currently living in Toronto and cooking as much as he can. He often contributes reviews to www.halifaxatthemovies.com
