For the last few weeks, I’ve been obsessed with Japan. I wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve been obsessed, too. What happened there is just so mind-boggling; I can’t even begin to imagine how I would respond to such a tragedy in my own life. All I know is that for the last few weeks, I’ve been keenly aware of how lucky we are.
My little family is indeed blessed in all the ways that matter, but right now we’re not so lucky financially. Stephen’s starting a new job in a few months (fingers crossed) but until that first paycheck comes in our budget is lean, lean, lean. So unlike when that horrific earthquake struck Haiti and I ran a comments-for-cash promotion, right now I can’t swing such generosity.
Enter Stacie of One Hungry Mama. I’ve told you about her before, but today I bring her up for a different reason: Together with Rachael of La Fuji Mama and Marc of No Recipes, she’s spearheading a family-oriented cookbook as a fundraiser for Japan, with the donation aimed specifically at the country’s children. The cookbook is called Peko Peko, which is Japanese for “I’m hungry!” It’s being published with Blurb, with 100% of the profits going to aid Japan. And when Stacie emailed to ask if I’d be interested in contributing, of course I said yes; if I can’t send money, I’ll send help another way.
I had coffee with Stacie a week or two ago and naturally the conversation turned to Peko Peko. She asked what I had in mind for a recipe. Something with noodles, for sure, I said. Noodles are big around here. But then Stacie mentioned her concern that the desserts section might be too meager, and a lightbulb went off: Pocky. Given Harry’s love of those chocolate-covered sticks, it seemed obvious.
The recipe is done and submitted, and that enticing photo above should (I hope) tempt you into wanting to try it. For that, you’ll have to buy the book. If my one little recipe isn’t enough to open your wallet, just check out this list of contributors! I am in some heady company, my friends. Stacie, Rachael, and Marc have recruited an amazing list of A-list food bloggers, people like Shauna from Gluten-Free Girl and the Chef, Alice from Savory Sweet Life, Sara Kate Gillingham-Ryan from The Kitchn, Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs from Food52, Jaden Hair from Steamy Kitchen, and dozens more. Seriously, this is going to be an incredible cookbook, one that I’m already proud to be a part of.
I can’t wait to buy my copy. I hope you’ll join me.
For more details on the genesis of the cookbook, click here.
For updates as they become available, click here.
To become a sponsor, which will enable even more of the proceeds to go to Japan, click here.
And to sign up to receive an announcement when pre-orders begin, add your email address in the space on the right.