Pairing the Tuna Loaf, a comforting and nostalgic dish, with "The Jane Austen Society" by Natalie Jenner creates a delightful culinary and literary experience. The novel's themes of connection and passion for literature resonate with the nostalgic aspect of the Tuna Loaf, while the bright flavors of a Citrus Gin Fizz add a refreshing contrast, making the pairing enjoyable and memorable. This trio offers a sense of warmth and coziness perfect for indulging in thoughtful reflection and discussion. Enjoy this delectable combination for a delightful evening of literature and culinary delight.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup ketchup (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with non-stick spray or lightly oil it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, chopped onion, grated Parmesan, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even loaf. If desired, spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf for a tangy glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the loaf is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the Tuna Loaf from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes in the pan. Slice the loaf and serve warm, with your favorite sides or sauces.
The Jane Austen Society
In the aftermath of World War II, a small English village is struggling to recover. When a group of disparate individuals band together to preserve the legacy of Jane Austen, they realize that their proposal will give them the resilience to face life’s challenges. This charming historical novel explores themes of friendship, love, and the power of literature.
* INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER * "This novel delivers sweet, smart escapism." —People "Fans of The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society will adore The Jane Austen Society… A charming and memorable debut, which reminds us of the universal language of literature and the power of books to unite and heal." —Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Girls of Paris Just after the Second World War, in the small English village of Chawton, an unusual but like-minded group of people band together to attempt something remarkable. One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England's finest novelists. Now it's home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen's legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen's home and her legacy. These people—a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others—could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, some from the recent war, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society. A powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life, both large and small, and the universal humanity in us all, Natalie Jenner's The Jane Austen Society is destined to resonate with readers for years to come.
Discussion Questions
- How does the setting of the village post-World War II influence the characters' actions and decisions?
- What role does Jane Austen’s works play in furthering the story's plot and character development?
- How do the individual members’ backgrounds alter their perspectives on life and literature?
- What parallels can you draw between the personal struggles of the characters and Jane Austen’s own life?
- Discussion on the transformative power of literature is pivotal in the novel. How does this play out in the story and impact the characters?
- Discuss the theme of community and its importance in the lives of Jane Austen Society members.
- How do class and societal expectation come into play in the personal lives of the characters?
- What do you think keeps Jane Austen’s works relevant across generations, as depicted in the novel?
- Explore the reasons why each character felt connected to Jane Austen's works.
- How does the author's interpretation of historical events enhance your reading experience and understanding of the novel?
Authors:
Natalie Jenner
ISBN: 9781250248732
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published Date: 2020-05-26
ISBN: 9781250248732
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published Date: 2020-05-26
Citrus Gin Fizz
The Citrus Gin Fizz is a light and refreshing cocktail that brings together the zesty flavors of citrus and the aromatic notes of gin. It perfectly complements the savory Tuna Loaf, adding a touch of sophistication and refreshment to the meal.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Ice
- Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice and add gin, lemon juice, orange juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda.
- Garnish with a lemon slice.