The morning sun peeked through the clouds as Bibi skipped down the garden path, her straw hat bouncing with each step. Today was special—Uncle Phong was cooking his famous eggplant stew, and Bibi had promised to help.
“Ready to harvest?” Uncle Phong asked, handing her a small wicker basket.
“Yes!” Bibi grinned, already spotting the deep purple vegetables peeking out from between green leaves.
The eggplant patch was thriving. Some were big and glossy, while others were still growing. Bibi knelt carefully and picked the ripest ones, placing them gently in her basket.
“Remember to twist and pull gently,” Uncle Phong reminded. “We don’t want to hurt the plant.”
“I know,” Bibi said proudly. “Like this?” She twisted the stem and popped an eggplant free. Uncle Phong nodded approvingly.
By the time they were done, Bibi’s basket was nearly overflowing. They walked back to the kitchen, where delicious smells already drifted through the open window.
Inside, Uncle Phong handed Bibi an apron. “Let’s wash these and start chopping.”
Bibi loved cooking days. She stood on a stool to reach the counter and helped rinse the eggplants. Uncle Phong showed her how to cut them into thick slices. He sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes while Bibi stirred gently.
Soon the stew simmered in the big clay pot, bubbling with flavor. The eggplants soaked up all the spices and sauce, turning soft and golden.
While it cooked, Bibi set the table with chopsticks and bowls. Uncle Phong ladled steaming stew into each one.
As they sat down to eat, Uncle Phong smiled. “You were a big help today, Bibi.”
Bibi beamed. “I want to cook with you every weekend!”
They clinked their chopsticks together like a toast.
The stew was rich, warm, and comforting—just like their time together.
And outside, more eggplants waited, already growing for their next harvest.
