I know I’m in the minority here, but I actually love icebreakers. You know, those get-to-know-you games that force everyone to speak (and just maybe come out of their shells). My favorite is called Connection, where one person shares facts about themselves until another group member hears something they have in common. Then, the second person shares, slowly building links of “connections” throughout the entire group. Sure, it can be uncomfortable, but it builds community in the “a friend of a friend is my friend” kind of way.
Now that I’m out of school, I don’t get the same opportunity to play Connection anymore. But I think I’ve found a new favorite icebreaker: this carrot, cumin, and Gouda quick bread from Melissa Sharp’s new book, Super Loaves & Simple Treats.
In my head, it goes something like this:
Carrots: “So, I’m close buds with cumin.”
Gouda: “Connection! Connection! Cumin and I are BFF.” (I imagine Gouda’s a little eager.)
Bread: “I love all you guys!”
Okay, so maybe that’s a little cheesy, but I swear this flavorful loaf can crack the frostiest of crowds. Bring it to your next gathering, and watch as people can’t help but tell their neighbor how delicious it is. Connection!
2 | cups spelt flour |
2 | teaspoons baking powder |
2 1/2 | ounces young Gouda, freshly grated |
2 | teaspoons cumin seeds |
1 | pinch salt |
1 | pinch freshly ground black pepper |
6 | ounces carrots, grated |
1 | small white onion, minced |
3 | eggs |
7 | tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil |
Butter, for serving |
2 | cups spelt flour |
2 | teaspoons baking powder |
2 1/2 | ounces young Gouda, freshly grated |
2 | teaspoons cumin seeds |
1 | pinch salt |
1 | pinch freshly ground black pepper |
6 | ounces carrots, grated |
1 | small white onion, minced |
3 | eggs |
7 | tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil |
Butter, for serving |
Do you like icebreakers? Share your favorites in the comments!
See what other Food52 readers are saying.