She Strengthens

Tiny Kitchen, Big Flavors: How I Shook Up My Cooking Routine

Living in a small galley kitchen can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to cooking. With only one two-and-a-half-foot section of counter space available, preparing meals can be a logistical nightmare. Despite the difficulties, I’ve learned to make do and have even discovered a new sense of joy in cooking.

Breaking Out of My Comfort Zone

I used to rely on tried-and-true recipes, mainly because it was easier to cook without having to worry about finding space for a cookbook or laptop. But this approach had its drawbacks – I was stuck in a culinary rut, recycling the same old recipes over and over. To shake things up, I decided to set a goal for myself: to try 20 new recipes in 2018, using my collection of cookbooks and bookmarked online recipes.

Exploring New Flavors

The first quarter of the year was all about exploring online recipes. I tried five new dishes, each with its own unique flavors and challenges. There was the Spaghetti with Mushroom Herb Cream Sauce, which I adapted to use fettuccine instead of spaghetti. Then there was the Roasted Garlic Cauliflower, which needed some tweaks to achieve the perfect texture. The Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup was a hit, served with sliced baguettes and fancy cheeses. I also experimented with Clean Eating Coconut Steel Cut Oats, substituting olive oil for coconut oil and adding raspberries for sweetness. Finally, I made an Artichoke Heart Tapenade, which added a delicious twist to baked chicken thighs and couscous.

The Joy of Cooking

Trying these new recipes was incredibly fulfilling. It’s amazing how much joy can come from creating something new and having it turn out well. By expanding my culinary repertoire, I found myself looking forward to cooking, even in my tiny kitchen. The variety also meant I didn’t get bored of my regular meals as quickly, since I wasn’t relying on the same old recipes.

Building Confidence in the Kitchen

My mother taught me how to cook when I was young, and I’ve had the privilege of sharing cooking experiences with roommates who love trying new things. This foundation of knowledge and confidence has allowed me to make substitutions and alterations to recipes, often with great results. I’ve also learned to identify areas for improvement, making each dish better with time.

Next Steps: Exploring Cookbooks and Beyond

For the second quarter of the year, I’ll be diving into my collection of cookbooks, searching for new inspiration. I’ve already started flipping through the pages, rediscovering old favorites and uncovering hidden gems. I’m excited to try at least one new dessert and one fish-based dish, which will be a departure from my usual cooking routine.

A New Perspective on Kitchen Space

This challenge has had an unexpected consequence: it’s made me realize how much I crave a better kitchen space. With more counter space and room to breathe, I know I could take my cooking to the next level. While moving to a new place may not be feasible right now, it’s given me something to strive for in the future. For now, I’ll continue to make the most of my tiny kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and techniques to elevate my home-cooking game.