English Idiom: Stick-to-your-ribs
There’s a lot to be said about a great stick-to-your-ribs meal.
These days there’s much talk about counting calories, dieting and taking supplements for their so-called health benefits.
Some believe that this means they have to starve themselves half to death to achieve the body style they want.
I don’t think that. In my opinion, it’s entirely reasonable to enjoy a stick-to-your-ribs meal every once in a while.
So, what, you may be wondering, does stick-to-your-ribs mean precisely.
Well, a stick-to-your-ribs meal is a meal that is both filling and nourishing at the same time.
A protein shake may be nourishing and contain all the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs, but it does not stick to your ribs – it does not leave you feeling full.
Now a nice hearty stew with loads of vegetables and freshly baked bread on the side, that sticks to your ribs.
A steaming bowl of Japanese curry rice or kimchi nabe with pilaf afterwards containing cheese and green onion mixed in, that is stick-to-your-ribs goodness.
That is what life is all about. You can have your calorie counting, dieting and protein shake if you want them, but after a hard week’s work I want and need a stew, curry or nabe that will stick to my ribs, give me a warm feeling inside and allow me to rub my extended belly with satisfaction.
We’ll diet tomorrow I tell myself. Unfortunately, when tomorrow comes, it’s today.