TABLE TALK VOL 13

1. Plan the Menu

Start by planning the menu for your Mother's Day brunch ahead of time (psst you only have a few days left). You can go for a classic American brunch menu with eggs, bacon, pancakes, chicken and waffles, or spice up your cultural traditional breakfast items, like fried plantains, callaloo and saltfish for my Caribbean families, or maritozzo and Pane, burro e marmellata for the Italian families. Whatever you choose, make sure to include some vegetarian and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy the food. And don't forget to include a special dessert for your mom, like her favorite cake or pie.

2. Decorate the Table

Set the table with a beautiful tablecloth or table runner, some fresh flowers, and beautiful place settings. You can also add some balloons, garland and tassels to make the room or yard look festive. Make sure to use your mom's favorite colors and patterns, so she feels special. Remember, it's all about her!

3. Prepare the Drinks

No brunch is complete without some festive mocktails and or cocktails. You can make a mimosa bar with different types of fruit juices and champagne, sparkling wine, or seltzer water if your family is not the alcohol type. You should also prepare some light drinks, like fresh lemonade or iced tea. Don't forget the drinkware.

4. Enjoy the Moment

The most important part of hosting a Mother's Day brunch is to enjoy the moment. Take the time to sit down with your mom and enjoy the food and the company. Tell her how much you appreciate her and how much she means to you. Take some family photos to remember the special day.

Now that you have some tips for hosting a Mother's Day brunch, here's a recipe for a yummy recipe that we've found and tried from John Kanell of Preppy Kitchen. Check him out for more delicious recipes!

French Toast Casserole 
Prep Time 15 minutes 
Cook Time 30 minutes 
Total Time 45 minutes 
Servings 8 servings 
You’ll need a 13x9 inch baking pan 

Ingredients 
For the Filling: 

• 6 large eggs 
• 1¾ cups whole milk (370mL) 
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar (55g) 
• 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract 
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon 
• ¼ teaspoon salt 
• 1 large loaf French bread cut into 1-inch cubes (about 14 to 16-oz.) 

For the Topping: 

• ¼ cup packed brown sugar (55g) 
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 
• ¼ teaspoon salt 
• ¼ cup cold butter diced (57g) 

To Serve 

• maple syrup 
• powdered sugar 

Instructions 

1. Preheat the oven to 375F. Lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with butter. 

For the Filling: 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the bread until fully coated. Spoon into the prepared baking dish. 

For the Topping: 

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the bread mixture. Dot the top with butter. 

1. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with powdered sugar and maple syrup, if desired.