An Easy Brunch Recipe

by Anne Bergman

Host a brunch?! Me?! No way!!!

Many people have shared their fears with me about hosting anything. What I have noticed, is that despite the long and varied list of reasons for not wanting to host, most people long to share themselves with their friends, in the comfort and relaxed space of the home. If you would like to work through your fear of hosting, here is a recipe on how to host an enjoyable brunch for 2-3 families (including your own).

The first thing to prepare ahead of time is your state of mind about your house and your friends. My first rule is that friends come for the friendship, not for the house or its tidiness. In my experience, most people, with or without children, divide into two camps: chronically tidy, or chronically messy. Your friends already know which camp you are in, so don't try to change. Relax and enjoy their company.

Now, about the kitchen…The kitchen has always been the most interesting room of the house for me. It's where the food is stored, prepared, often eaten…so think of it as your living room; very inviting, and very active. It doesn't have to look as though it is out of a magazine, but I do suggest having at least one cleared counter or table where guests can post themselves, with a drink and some snacks. This gives you a choice: either they stay out of your way while you finish up, or, they are ready to help.

Planning is always listed as a necessary ingredient for success, and what I like to plan is how others will help and contribute. Since you are hosting, you are in charge of what to eat, who is coming, and you hold the key to the ambiance. If you are nervous about cooking, feel free to host a potluck brunch. Ensure that you set this up so that you are relaxed. The food is not actually the focus of the brunch. If you are absolutely frightened at the prospect of making food for others, let your friends take care of the food. All of it. You look after the decorating, planning, ambiance.

As the host, you get to decide what sorts of things you would like to include in the meal, such as fruit salad, drinks, bread/pastries, an egg dish and so on. Then delegate, gently, by suggesting one category to each family. Let them express their creativity. Presto! You have checked one category of foods off the list. Repeat with next guest. Keep in mind that some people will not be as comfortable cooking, but would love to pick something up along the way. Others are a terrific help in the kitchen, and are delighted to be asked to wash, peel and chop. Nobody expects you to do everything. In fact, people love being part of the process. Friends want to help, and they will ask you how they can do so, either ahead of time, or once they arrive. Plan for this. Let them set the table, set up a platter or bread basket. Flowers are a legitimate category, suitable for anyone. Fresh flowers are such a simple and wonderful addition to any table.

Finally, don't forget the kids. Children do best when they know what is going on ahead of time, and what their responsibilities are. They can help set or beautify the table; two year olds can bring the spoons, and slightly older children can fold paper napkins, or look after putting a few flowers in a vase; take drink orders, pass around snacks, and lead their friends to the play area. Plan for a movie. It's a special day, and everyone will be happier if the children are happy. Two of my favourites are the old classics: Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. They are appropriate for all ages, and fun.

Remember that this is a friendly brunch, not a reality show about "survival in the kitchen". Challenge yourself if you want, but there is no rule that says you must stress about cooking. Books, websites, friends and family are all excellent sources for every level of cook. Keep it simple and enjoy yourself.

Your Easy Brunch is done.

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