Sunday lunch with the Cloues
Sunday lunches with the Cloues always seem to stretch into dinner, with conversation flowing as easily as the wine. I decided to cook a spread that was hearty and full of flavour, the kind of food that brings everyone together and reminds us how good it feels to share a meal.
The pomelo salad started things off. I tossed the juicy pink pomelo with crunchy water apple and tiny Japanese silver fish for a touch of savoury bite. The dressing had a hint of fish sauce, giving it that Thai and Vietnamese lift that wakes up the palate. Light, fresh and just a little cheeky.
Next came the calamari in my own tangy spicy sauce. It had that balance of heat and zest that makes you reach for another piece, and maybe another sip of wine. The char on the squid brought out its sweetness, and it disappeared faster than I expected.
Then there was my crispy roast pork belly, golden and crackling just right. Always a favourite at the table. I also made my latest version of char siew, cooked in the pressure cooker before finishing in the oven for a caramelised glaze. The kids went for seconds without hesitation.
The jumbo prawns were grilled simply with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice. Fresh, smoky and sweet from the grill.
Cooking like this is my way of showing love. It is how I connect with people, how I say thank you for their company. It is also how I reciprocate their friendship and generosity, a small gesture to give back some of the warmth they have shared with me. Life is short and unpredictable, but good food, wine and laughter around the table make it all worthwhile. These are the moments that matter, and I treasure every one of them.
