Join the many family members and friends of Helen Zeleznik Kamykowski who cherish her one-of-a-kind cookbook, which brings together a collection of delicious family recipes, her beautiful watercolor art, and her intriguing family stories.

Helen learned the art of cooking in her mother Polly’s kitchen and perfected it at the Eden House Restaurant in Harvey, Illinois, a venture she co-owned with her husband Chops. These experiences inspired her to share the collection of recipes that she accumulated along that journey. Cooking was never a chore to Helen or her mother. Preparing meals in the kitchen extended beyond ingredients and measurements for her.

Family was central in her life and gathering around the table to enjoy a favorite meal together and share life stories was important. Helen instilled this value in her children and grandchildren, who have likewise embraced the tradition of meaningful meal conversations.

In Nana’s Collection, Helen (known as “Nana” to her grandchildren) presents recipes created by her mother, recipes she prepared at the restaurant, and recipes her sisters and children loved, as well as recipes from other family members and dear friends. The “Polish Cookery” section offers a particularly delightful selection of cherished family recipes, including her father George’s kiełbasa and her mother Polly’s pierogi and gołąbki. The salad dressing recipes from the Eden House Restaurant are favorites and reflect the popularity of the restaurant. Hands down, the family’s favorite dessert recipe is Helen’s Cheesecake, although Mom’s (Polly’s) Apple Pie deserves a first-place rating, too. You will not be disappointed with Faith’s BBQ Shrimp (New Orleans style) and Italian Meatballs and Pasta … or any other recipe in this cookbook!

The watercolor painting you see on the cover is courtesy of Helen as well, who in addition to her culinary talents, also lent her artistic talents to illustrating the cookbook. She painted and sketched for more than forty years. Her art is fondly displayed in her children’s and grandchildren’s homes, as well as those of other family members, keeping her memory close in their everyday lives. 

Nana’s Collection will surely expand your favorite list of recipes and bring more joy to your cooking, no doubt enhancing the pleasure of your meals together with family and friends!

Nana’s Collection: Recipes, Art and Memories is a 342 page cookbook with treasured family and Eden House Restaurant recipes highlighted by Helen Zeleznik Kamykowski’s watercolors and sketches. Price: book $33.25 which includes shipping of $5.25. Additional Texas sales taxes may be applicable.