Culinary Masterpiece

The cutting board thuds like
a rap on a wooden door,
another scallion diced as
tears stream to the eyelid's edge.
Crumbling beef sears to grey,
oily grease collecting in an empty can;
hardening, cooling into fat,
waste thrown into the trash

Cloves of garlic ground into powder,
white sprinkled over tomato sauce;
ingredients thrown and stirred,
while heat warms the silver pot.
Spices poured with a ballet touch,
a symphony precise in taste;
complimenting the kidney beans
forming a gastric choir.

Steam rises from the concoction,
the aroma wafts out, announcing;
bubbles beat with drumstick rhythm,
the simmering waters the mouth.
Anticipation builds while hunger begs,
final touches made before curtain call.
Bowls situated in perfect positions,
the ladle delivers its star.

Sprinkled with oyster crackers,
the masterpiece debuts.
Scoops reach the mouth of critics,
devouring each remaining drop.
With smiles and calls for seconds,
the conductor knows she passed.
Another pot of chili praised,
dirty dishes, her reward.