Remembering Aggy on Andrew's Name Day

Today marks a significant day in our family's calendar – it's Andrew's Name Day. In Poland, a Name Day is akin to a birthday, a day filled with joy, gifts, and, most importantly, shared moments around a lovingly prepared meal. In years past, this day would find Aggy with her creativity at its peak, crafting a dish that was both a delight to the taste buds and a warm embrace to the heart.

This year, the approach of Christmas and Name Day celebrations casts a bittersweet shadow, as it's our first without our Aggybear. The absence of her laughter and the missing spark of her presence makes these days particularly challenging.

Last night, in an attempt to bridge the gap left by her absence, I endeavoured to recreate one of Aggy's classic dishes for her dad – a heart-shaped vegan banana jelly. As I moved around the kitchen, it felt like Aggy was right there with me, her gentle guidance in my ear, steering me back on course whenever I faltered. The result was a perfect blend of sweet banana, pears, and date, all enveloped in a creamy jelly texture – just how Aggy used to make it.

As I set the dish on the table, the memories flooded back. Each bite was a reminder of the love Aggy put into her cooking and the joy she found in these small acts of kindness. Her absence is deeply felt especially today. We miss her laughter, wise words, boundless creativity, and the light she brought into our lives.

Yet, in moments like these, as we gather around her favourite recipes, Aggy feels close again. It's through these cherished rituals and shared memories that we keep her spirit alive. Aggy may not be with us physically, but in our thoughts and our hearts, she continues to be a guiding force, a beacon of love and warmth.

On this Name Day, as we navigate through our first festive season without her, we hold onto the essence of what Aggy represented – love, family, and the enduring power of cherished memories.

Here's the recipe for the jelly, and stay tuned for future recipes:

Vegan Banana Jelly

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes + 1 hour chilling

Ingredients:

1. 700ml of your favourite nut milk, or homemade banana milk (blend 600ml water with 2 bananas)

2. 4 bananas

3. A handful of dates or raisins

4. 1 pear (optional)

5. 5.5g agar-agar

6. Silicone jelly mould, food container, or bowl

Preparation:

1. Soak the dates/raisins in a small amount of water to soften.

2. Blend 500ml of the milk with 2 bananas and the pear.

3. Gently heat the remaining 200ml milk with agar-agar, bringing it to a rolling boil while stirring continuously.

4. Gradually pour about 100ml of the blended mixture into the saucepan, continuing to stir.

5. Once all the liquid is combined, stir well and remove from heat.

6. Pour the mixture into your chosen mould.

7. Slice the 2 remaining bananas and distribute them evenly into the jelly mixture.

8. Drain the dates/raisins, chop them up, and sprinkle them into the jelly.

9. Optional: Drink the date/raisin soak water for a little treat.

10. Carefully place the jelly in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour (time may vary depending on mould size) to set.

Note: The jelly will set at room temperature, but this will take longer.

Serving Suggestion: Feel free to sprinkle with cinnamon or carob powder when serving.

Enjoy your homemade Vegan Banana Jelly!