If we're being honest, it's been a mess. But I'm starting to get it together. I love watching people cook, but on my own I'm no chef, I'm definitely learning as I go.
The funny thing is I didn't start out as a bad cook. Not to overhype myself, but I could make some pretty solid dishes before I started this journey. The problem was there were only 3-4 solid foods and I can't just survive on spaghetti, lemon bars, baked mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes. I needed to learn how to cook a variety of foods with similar ingredients, while staying good to a budget.
One of the biggest gamechangers for this was buying a planner from the Container Store (no sponsorship, but one can dream). This planner allows you to decide your meals while writing a grocery list at the same time! It may sound simple but this has vastly improved my motivation and outcomes for cooking. I'm a planner, but I also love to have variety in what I eat. I like that I can buy spinach, use it for a salad one day and lo mein the next.
As a vegetarian I also found that finding the right balance in my meals was a must. I love carbs but if I eat too many, I will surely be taking a long nap. That's not realistic for my work life. So I monitor my reactions to food and go with what works. I eat a very light breakfast, a vegetable heavy lunch, and a big dinner with plenty or carbs and protein. I do NOT suggest this diet if you're an athlete or love to exercise daily. You need your carbs before a trip to the gym. For me this is great, because digesting the carbs and protein make me tired, and ready for bed.
Another obstacle in my journey was finding the motivation to cook. For me, the act of putting in the effort often made my less likely to try. However, I've found two things helpful with this. First, it's being comfortable with failure. Not every dish you make will end well, but it will be a lesson, and you WILL get better with practice. Once you get the hang of it, you'll be surprised by the instincts you develop.
Second, I found grounding (thank you therapy!), to also be helpful. Music helps me stay grounded and concentrated on the task at hand which is making my dish. In fact, cooking has started to become an activity that calms my active mind by allowing me to focus on a sole task. Who would have thought? Definitely not me.
Now let's conquer the next step, the recipes. I am NOT just going off gut for the first time, I go based on a recipe. Once I get comfortable with a certain recipe or formula (e.g. soup) I will start to experiment with flavors. Most of the recipes I've made I've just found online. I've added links to a few of my favorite sites to find moderately easy, low ingredient recipes*.
Oh also here's a budget friendly tip, I use walnuts instead of pine nuts for pesto. I find it to be a healthy alternative and much more cost effective. Also I tend to try to buy what's in season. Finally, I substitute spices all the time based on what I have. Groceries are pretty expensive right now, so I just try to go with what I already have. My one big splurge is always apples. I love a good Honeycrisp.
Another great motivator is inviting a friend to cook with you and eat in. This is a budget friendly activity that I actually find really fun. I enjoy having a conversation and making a meal together. The bonus is that you can both be proud of the finished product.
Now this is what has worked best for me. What has worked best for you? Why? Let me know in the comments.
*Some of my favorite sources for vegetarian recipes. I'm still trying new ones and will keep you updated.
Comments