I always find it amazing that people can't cook. I was brought up on the kitchen bench with Mum doing a running commentary on how she was cooking dinner, which I put up with because I'd get bits of cabbage or capsicum to satiate my hunger until it was done. I in turn did the same to my son, calling him out of the bedroom in later years to 'watch how to do this' or 'taste this for me' - it resulted in him being a great cook as well. Intuition about cooking is learnt really - once you get the basics, you get a feeling for it.
I totally understand now that some people - many - aren't taught to cook, or don't grow up with it.
Left to his own devices, Jamie's staple is baked beans on toast, though these days he pushes the boat out and puts worchestershire sauce and grated cheese on it as well.
My (skinny) brother is exactly the same. When I go away for a few days, he either lives on beans and toast or eats nothing at all. You were fortunate to have able parents. Mine were usually either hung over or drunk and either way, they had little interest in food.
Ah that's so sad. Are they still around?
Yep, I'm eternally aware of the luck I had with my folks. Not only were they sober, they were fun, adventurous, kind, non judgemental, funny, well read and generally people I would look forward to hanging out with. Makes it harder to lose them though.
I'll never understand how men can do things like rebuild an engine or rewire a house and they can't learn how to cook or goddamn it, make a bed nearly even after being shown 3720 times. Resentful much? See, our marriage isn't perfect ..
Your marriage sounds mighty fine to me.
My mother died sometime in the early 80s, at only 56. My father just 6 years ago. at 87. We weren't close so it didn't affect me too much.
Same here! I have my favorites and can do quite elaborate meals, but my preferred method is just "whatever is in the fridge". I experiment with spices a lot.
Ellie can't really cook, it never interested her - which is weird as she grew up in a restaurant. Good thing is that she loves my creations.
Ah what is life without spice!!! Me too. What's your essentials? I don't think I could do without cummin.
I make my own blends :-D But yes, cumin is one of the main ingredients.
Cumin, Paprika, Black pepper is a common mix I use. Sometimes combined with some kind of herb, mostly oregano.
I love ginger, turmeric, soy sauce and garlic as well.
My tandoori spice blend is also a go-to, with some extra hot dried chili. With lemon juice and soy sauce...
Okay, getting hungry now and I shouldn't, it's 9pm and I should go to bed.