Recipe Contribution by Samera Arkel. Words by Altadena Cooks.

Not all recipes are for dinner — some are for childhood play, like this one for homemade play dough. This recipe speaks to one small way in which love, care, and playfulness has been passed down through generations in Altadena.

This recipe comes to Altadena Cooks from Samera Arkel, and is from her aunt, who made play dough for her kids 40 years ago, and who uses the same recipe today when making it for the current generation of children in her extended family.

Samera and her family have called beautiful Altadena home for three generations. Collectively they lost multiple family homes and businesses. Her event space, 409 Woodbury, survived the fire. She has been using the space as a community resource center for fire victims in the community.

SAMERA’S FAMILY PLAY DOUGH RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tbsp oil
• 1/2 cup salt
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• food coloring

Instructions:

Cook on medium heat until [the play dough] pulls away from the sides of [the] pan. Stir constantly.

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Note: This contribution was sent to Altadena Cooks through DM, and responses have been edited lightly for clarity. See an issue? Please email me at altadenacooks@gmail.com