Introductions

Just so you can get to know a bit more about who I am and what I am doing…

We live in a weird time. As I am writing, it is April 2020 and many of us are inside of our homes due to the COVID-19 situation worldwide. Friends are far apart and comfort is hard to find in the deluge of news articles about things gone wrong. Food is a classic way to deal with stressful situations. I use it as a way to cope, a way to pass time, and of course a comfort in my body and being. Sometimes we all need a heavy, gross meal to cheer us up. Sometimes, we can create that heavy feeling with light and healthy ingredients. My goal is to share this with you.

Why do this?

• I have been told to open a café of my own so many times, and I am far far too poor to do that.
• Because it will help you recreate the comfort in your own kitchen without spending so much money!
• You can feel closer to me in some way, if not physically, as we all struggle through this weird moment of history.

As cheesy as it is, I fully believe in the fictional Auguste Gusteau’s statement: Anyone can cook!

To help you get started, here are a few things to have on hand:

• A kitchen scale, seriously you can’t do without ! American measurements in cups and such are often misleading and cooking by weight rather than volume makes much more sense.
• Some good quality knives. They make allllll the difference.
• PLENTY of spices. Seriously, if you only have salt and pepper in your kitchen it is time to go to the shops and stock up. We have AT LEAST 20 different spices on hand at all times. No kidding, in the kitchen right now, there are 5 different kinds of salt. You don’t have to be that extra, but do have as much as you can.
• Plenty of various sized pots and pans. Again, makes all the difference. Order from TK Maxx if you must.
• Olive oil, and a good quality one at that ! As well as sunflower or vegetable oil which will be used less frequently.
• Fresh herbs make a difference, and they are easy to maintain. And cheap ! All of this may seem excessive and expensive, but I promise you it’s doable.
• Kitchen towels. Linen ones are quite nice and light, good for covering breads and lining banneton baskets, but if that is not your thing, no stress. They’re good for wiping hands and surfaces as well.
• One of these bad boys. Blending, chopping, mixing, all made easier. This one is not terribly expensive and works like a charm.

You don’t necessarily NEED any of those things, but they will make your kitchen life so much easier. When your kitchen life is easier, you will be more inspired to go and cook. Trust me.

Are you ready to get started? I am excited to share with you all of the recipes and ideas I have floating around in my head, new ones that I will try and old classics that are consistently requested in the house.

Thank you, dear reader. I can’t wait to hear about your own journey.