In a world focused on extravagant gatherings and meticulously planned dinner parties, Academy Award-winning actress Brie Larson and celebrated chef and culinary producer Courtney McBroom aim to return the joy of simplicity to entertaining. The duo is set to launch their collaborative cookbook, “Party People: A Cookbook for Creative Celebrations,” on October 21, bringing together their extensive knowledge of hosting and cooking with 100 delectable recipes designed to inspire unforgettable celebrations.
Among the standout recipes is Brie’s cherished Cheesy Jenga Bread, a nod to her great-grandmother that exemplifies the comfort and nostalgia of home-cooked favorites. The cookbook is not just about the food but is an invitation to embrace the social aspect of gatherings, a sentiment both Larson and McBroom feel is more important than ever as the world seeks deeper connections post-pandemic.
The pair discusses their motivation behind this project, emphasizing the shared experience of hosting. McBroom notes that their longstanding friendship and mutual passion for entertaining made the concept feel natural. Larson adds that parties hold psychological significance, serving as celebrations of milestones and connections that people often shy away from expressing.
When it comes to hosting, both emphasize the importance of preparation. Larson suggests opting for simple, make-ahead dishes like casseroles and appetizers that encourage mingling rather than a formal sit-down dinner, especially for novice hosts. McBroom champions the versatility of casseroles, which can be prepped in advance and increase overall enjoyment during gatherings.
For those looking to entertain on a budget or at the last minute, the duo offers practical advice. McBroom recommends having crowdsourced dishes and stocking up on frozen items like pizza pockets for unexpected guests. Larson highlights the value of shopping smartly and encourages hosts to lean on friends for contributions, creating a community effort rather than shouldering the burden alone.
Both women dismiss the notion of perfection in hosting. Larson emphasizes the importance of embracing the chaos, allowing for imperfect conditions to foster authentic connections. McBroom reinforces this idea by sharing her own experiences of hosting in less-than-ideal spaces, proving that fun can thrive in any environment.
As for entertainment, they encourage limiting phone usage during gatherings to enhance the experience, opting for vintage cameras to capture memories instead. They also advocate the inclusion of guests in the hosting process, assigning them small tasks to create a more participatory atmosphere.
For seasonal parties, like those in the fall or around Halloween, Larson and McBroom recommend embracing thematic decorations and menu variations, like spider snacks or pumpkin spice delights, that reflect the festive spirit.
“Party People” is not simply a cookbook; it’s a celebration of connection, collaboration, and joy in the art of hosting. Through their shared perspectives and guidance, Larson and McBroom artfully navigate the balance of simplicity and creativity, inviting everyone to partake in the joy of bringing people together for memorable gatherings.