AFTER 5

SIPPING AT A GLASS WHILE NIBBLING SIMPLE BITES CAN TRANSFORM PREPARATION INTO A PLEASANT TIME TO RELAX AFTER A DAY AT WORK.

The best traditions are those that involve a measure of self-indulgence. Hence the enduring popularity of the Quebec ritual of cinq à sept, the couple of hours between the end of the working day and dinner when one can relax, maybe meet up with a friend, have a drink and a little something to eat and enjoy a good conversation. If you work in an office, this probably takes place in a café or bar. But if you work from home, as my wife and I do, it’s easier just to rendezvous in the kitchen. There we put together a small snack, pour ourselves a glass of wine or some other aperitif and start to unwind. It’s a highlight of the day. Here, as both illustration and inspiration, are a few ideas for creating just such a domestic cinq à sept, with four simple but delicious recipes matched to some favourite drinks.