Why Learning to Cook is a Life-Changing Journey

Introduction

Learning to cook is more than just a practical skill; it's an enriching experience that transforms lives. From a young age, I embarked on a culinary journey that taught me patience, creativity, and the joy of sharing a meal with others. In this article, I will revisit my early experiences with cooking and explore the myriad reasons why learning to cook is invaluable.

The First Steps

My cooking journey began with a simple yet pivotal moment. At the age of nine, I participated in my first culinary endeavor with the Cub Scouts. I made curry, a dish that required precise preparation, including the careful handling of onions. However, I faltered at the critical step of coring the onion, a mistake that led to charring and a less-than-ideal outcome. Despite the initial setback, this experience planted a seed of curiosity in me, igniting a passion for the kitchen.

From Novice to Novice Chef

Years later, in my marriage to a much older partner, I found myself feeling like the "kid" among our social circle. Our friends Melita and Pompeo suggested it was time for me to contribute by cooking for them. Initially, the idea was daunting, but their encouragement and the challenge of learning to cook pushed me forward. I took to the bookstore and found solace in a cookbook titled The Three-Star Recipes of Alain Senderens: The Extraordinary Cuisine of L'Archestrate The Most Prestigious Restaurant in All of Paris. This book, with its Michelin-star ratings, promised refined and complex recipes, which were far from my usual approach to cooking.

Despite the high expectations, I struggled with the recipes. Each dish—such as the oxtail salad and veal cutlets with cucumbers and tea sauce—required precise preparation and a level of cooking technique that was entirely new to me. The results were underwhelming, to say the least. The oxtail salad was overly greasy, and the veal dish with its cucumber and tea sauce combination left me questioning its culinary logic. The dessert, a tasteless tart, further highlighted the gap between my aspirations and reality. Despite the frustration, Pompeo and Mirjana showered me with praise, and I learned to appreciate the social and emotional value of cooking, even if the dishes themselves were not perfect.

Cooking as a Skill and a Habit

My cooking journey in the Boy Scouts left an indelible mark. During those camping trips, no matter the weather, we would gather around the campfire to cook our meals from scratch. The Boy Scouts' teachings instilled in me the importance of culinary skills, especially in the absence of modern conveniences. Utensil-less cooking, where food was prepared and consumed directly over the fire, was a lesson in self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. I became adept at cooking in unconventional settings, a skill that has served me well throughout my life.

While no longer preparing meals on the ground due to age and mobility, I continue to enjoy the kitchen as a space to gather and cook for groups. From small gatherings of a dozen to larger events of over 300 people, cooking remains a central part of my social and communal life. The ability to cook for a large group, especially those that include alcohol, has given me the confidence to take on new culinary challenges and to share these experiences with others.

The Value of Cooking

Learning to cook offers numerous benefits, including:

Improved Life Skills: Cooking teaches patience, attention to detail, and time management—essential skills that are applicable in various aspects of life. Social and Emotional Benefits: Cooking is a communal activity that fosters connections and creates a sense of belonging. Sharing a meal with others is a fundamental human experience that strengthens social bonds. Creative Expression: Cooking allows for creative expression and experimentation, making it an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby. Wellness: Understanding and preparing healthy meals can lead to better nutrition and overall health.

Conclusion

My journey from a novice cook to a seasoned chef has been both challenging and rewarding. Whether it's preparing a simple meal on a camping trip or cooking for a large group, the experience of learning to cook has enriched my life in countless ways. It's a journey that continues to evolve, and I remain grateful for the lessons and memories it has brought me.