So Many Dishes

When I was teaching, I used to tell my students that there were three things needed to learn to be successful: to read, to do basic math, and to be able to speak in front of other people. But I think the real life skill that everyone needs to know is how to cook.

You don’t have to become a gourmet chef. But I think everyone needs basic kitchen skills and a few dishes that they know how to cook. I think we’ve all heard the joke about someone who can’t boil water, but truly, but if you’ve never done it, it can be intimidating. I remember the first time I did it; I was 8, I think, and my mother was ill. She had put a saucepan of water on the stove to make some oatmeal for me, but couldn’t stand long enough to finish it. She coached me through the process. I always think of that as I’m waiting for a pot to boil, and remember that I was to watch for when the bubbles popped the surface.

I think it helps to introduce kids to cooking at an early age. I loved having my children in the kitchen with me when they were young, and we still have fun cooking together. Our grandson, Luke, loves to be my sous chef. Helping in the kitchen introduced him to a wider variety of foods, too. If he’s helping me with a recipe that includes either bell peppers or mushrooms, I consider myself fortunate if I get any into the dish itself! I’m looking forward to involving our granddaughter, Emmalyn, in Thanksgiving baking while our son’s family is here for the holidays. She and I haven’t had as many opportunities to spend time together in the kitchen.

One other benefit of cooking is that it can be an opportunity to nourish not only your body, but your soul as well. Even following the simplest recipe is a creative act. Cooking can be a great stress reliever. My friend Mary says that stirring a pot of risotto is a form of meditation for her. For me, it’s kneading bread dough. And if you’re cooking for others, there’s the pleasure of sharing.

So cook something today. Happy eating!