Cooking and I have a love-hate relationship. I have a tendency to go in phases of thoroughly enjoying the process and refusing to pick up a spoon. It probably has something to do with my all-or-nothing personality. I’m not really very good at the whole “frozen Trader Joe’s” meals, even though I know how simple and efficient they are. I am just someone who feels like, if I’m going to be in the kitchen, I might as well go all out. So if you’re in a cooking dry spell or maybe you’ve never really even tried, here are a few tips that can make cooking fun.
images of Joan Didion and her kitchen
Get the right tools
If you’re using old, cheap cooking tools, it’s really going to put a damper on the process. Having the tools you need for meal prep can take some of the stress out of cooking, so invest in kitchenware — like colorful cookware or a set of pretty baking utensils — you actually enjoy using.
Read: 12 Tools That Will Inspire You To Be In The Kitchen
Head to the farmers’ market
Farmers’ markets are such an enjoyable experience. Besides the ability to sample fresh produce, dairy and meats, as well as the opportunity to interact with the local farmers and businesses, it’s also the freshest, safest way to get your nutrients and boost your health. There’s something about spending a Sunday morning at the farmers’ market loading up on ingredients that helps get your creative juices flowing in the kitchen. You’ll be excited to use your super fresh ingredients!
Read: A Spring Farmers’ Market Shopping List
Connect with your roots
Is there a part of your heritage you haven’t really connected with? Maybe your great-grandparents were Italian or Korean? Dive into some traditional cultural recipes to get you excited about cooking. Make it an educational experience. Try a virtual class or dive into YouTube for tips straight from the heart of your homeland.
Read: The 5 Best YouTube Cooking Channels To Inspire Healthier Habits
Make it collaborative
Whether you live with a partner or roommate, find a buddy to attempt a new recipe with. Pick a recipe you’re both excited about to make it more collaborative. Cooking with companions helps time pass and also offers more assistance in the kitchen regarding prep and cleanup. Plus, you both might be able to learn cooking hacks from each other!
Read: 11 Delicious Recipes To Try Out While You’re Staying at Home
Go with a theme
If you have to cook every day, one major struggle is figuring out what to make for dinner. While you do want some variety in your menu, consider creating themed days like Pizza Friday, Taco Tuesday or Thai Thursday. This way, you have a narrower range of choices on a particular day. You can, of course, still change things up even within your categories. On Pizza Friday, make a traditional pepperoni one week, but perhaps try something new like a Greek pizza the next week. Different toppings will create a different experience.
Read: 10 “Sunday Supper” Recipes To Try This Weekend
