Finding Comfort in the Kitchen
When life gets busy, cooking often takes a backseat. With packed schedules and exhaustion, it’s easy to rely on quick meals and takeout. But in times of uncertainty, turning to the kitchen can be a powerful act of self-care.
Mastering New Skills
As I found myself with more time at home, I decided to challenge myself to upgrade my cooking skills. I started with small, achievable goals, knowing that taking on too much would be discouraging. Here are the new skills I’ve acquired:
The Art of Poaching Eggs
Eggs are a staple in my kitchen, but I’d always been intimidated by poaching them. After watching a Bon Appetit video, I realized it was easier than I thought. With a few simple steps – boiling water, cracking the egg, and creating a whirlpool effect – I was able to create a perfect, bougie egg.
Shakshuka: A Delicious Adventure
Next, I tried Shakshuka, a North African and Middle Eastern dish made with eggs, spiced tomatoes, and inexpensive vegetarian ingredients. This hearty, healthy meal can be made in a single skillet and is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The Joy of Pickling
With limited trips to the grocery store, I wanted to find ways to extend the life of my produce. Pickling is a great way to do this, and it adds variety to meals. I started with quick pickled onions, which can be ready in just an hour. The result was a delicious addition to my meals, and I felt a sense of accomplishment.
Crepes: A Taste of Nostalgia
I’ve always romanticized crepes, reminiscent of my time studying abroad in France. With minimal ingredients and prep, I made crepes on a Sunday morning, enjoying them with my partner on our balcony, accompanied by fresh coffee and Ella Fitzgerald’s music.
No-Bake Baking
I thought I’d try my hand at baking, but with flour shortages, I turned to peanut butter balls instead. This childhood favorite is nostalgic and foolproof, requiring just a few ingredients and no oven. The result was a delicious treat that brought back happy memories.
The Comfort of Bone Broth
Bone broth has gained popularity for its health benefits and comfort factor. I learned that making it is simple, but requires time and TLC. With my partner, I made a batch using beef bones, roasting them and then simmering them in a pot. The result was a nourishing soup that brought us comfort and satisfaction.
Cooking as Self-Care
In these uncertain times, cooking has become an act of care that is healthy and meaningful. It encourages creativity, patience, and positivity, while also providing a sense of accomplishment. For me, learning these new skills has been a source of comfort, focus, and escape.
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