Local Recipes from “The Center Table”

WINDHAM - It is not true that there are only two certainties in life, a fact proven by “The Center Table,” a new cookbook prepared like a mom’s apple pie by the Main Street Community Center.

If you are a monk or nun tucked in a Himalayan cave, the rules of survival may not apply to you the same as the rest of us for whom eating food is right up there with paying taxes and that other thing as must be done’s.

We do them or else so why not make them joyful, which is the soul purpose behind “The Center Table” that doubles as a fundraiser for the Community Center on Main Street in Windham.

An apt name for a place that has sprouted from seeds planted six years ago and nurtured by generational folks and second homeowners, all sharing a love for Windham and something baking in the oven.

And it isn’t just moms contributing to the memories of licking the spoon (as a willing tradeoff for washing the sticky pots and pans). Fathers and sons and daughters are all part of the mix.

 “This cookbook is a collection of the recipes, traditions and stories that make our community feel like home,” the book Introduction states.

“Within these pages, you’ll find treasured family recipes passed down through generations, dishes that celebrate the many cultures that enrich our community, favorite meals from home cooks young and old, and recipes from restaurants that have become cherished local traditions.

“Every recipe has a story. Some have been served at holiday gatherings for decades. Others have become weeknight staples shared among neighbors and friends. Together, they tell the story of who we are.

“The Main Street Community Center was founded on the belief that strong communities are built by bringing people together,” the Intro states.

“Just as our Community Center is filled with people from different generations, backgrounds, talents and experiences, these pages bring together recipes that are wonderfully diverse yet connected by a common thread; they were shared with love by members of our community.

“We hope these recipes inspire you to gather around your own table, try something new, revisit an old favorite and create memories with the people you love.

“Thank you to every family, home cook, local restaurant, baker, volunteer and friend who contributed to this collection.

“Your generosity has created something far greater that a cookbook. Together, you’ve preserved a piece of our community’s history for future generations,” the Intro states.

“The Center Table” has multiple sections including “Breakfast,” “Appetizers & Beverages,” “Soups and Salads,” “Vegetables and Side Dishes,” “Main Dishes,” “Breads & Rolls,” Desserts” and “This & That.”

There are tips on “Pantry Basics” as well as “Helpful Hints” for buying fresh ingredients, napkin folding, measuring the correct quantities for small or larger servings and cooking terms.

Recipes range from “Aryiana’s Famous Christmas Pannetone French Toast” to the “Best Ever Lentil Soup” and from “Homemade Pasta” to “Shepherds Pie,” “Nordic Stone Age Bread” and “Venison Stew.”

Each recipe lists its source including effervescent Aryiana Telles, Joe Baglio (of Vesuvio Restaurant fame), Diane Lawrence (behind the counter at Windham Hardware) and Frog’s House Chef Paulie Lopresti.

“The Main Street Community Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing people together through education, the arts, wellness, and community,” says director Sadhbh Lavery.

“Since opening our doors in 2020, we have provided opportunities for all ages to learn, create, volunteer and build meaningful connections.

“From after school enrichment and summer camps to art exhibitions, senior programs, language classes, book clubs, and community events, our mission is to create a welcoming place where everyone belongs.”

Main Street Community Center is located at 5494 Route 23 (on the west end of town). For more information dial (518) 734-4168 or visit mainstreetcenter.org.