Hookey anyone?

When was the last time you played hookey? Hookey as in truancy from your school or work. In Jamaica they call it skulling. In South Africa it's bunking, skipping, or jippo. In Australia it's wagging or ditching. In Ireland it might be called on the duck, or mitching and in Scotland it might be playing tickie or puggin. Whatever we call it, it's a really good thing once in awhile. It's like a sick day without having to be sick. Taking a whole day to stay at home in pajamas, and watching movies or reading a book. And of course drinking chicken soup from a bowl and not answering the phone or emails. It is much more rewarding and fun to do it before you actually get sick and tired. It's enervating and rejuvenating!

Here is a great recipe for your next Hookey Day.

Herbed Lentil and Rice Casserole

2 2/3 cups vegetable stock
3/4 cup dry lentils (brown or green)
3/4 cup chopped onions
1/2 cup dry brown rice
1/4 cup apple juice (or white wine)
1/2 tsp basil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp thyme
1 clove garlic, crushed
Pepper to taste
1/2 lb cheddar cheese, grated

Oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all ingredients except cheese in ungreased casserole dish. Stir in half of the cheese. Bake, covered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until rice and lentils are tender. Stirring twice during cooking time. Uncover and top with remaining cheese and bake for 3 to 5 minutes.

Now, I know you are thinking that the amount of cheese is extreme. Okay, reduce it just a little, very little and use extra old cheddar for more flavour. But you need the cheese. That's what makes it yummy.