What can we do while we are hunkering down at home and what does cooking have to do with that? I believe a LOT! You know when things get a little stressful, comfort can be found in food and around the table. Here are five things you can do while you are at home with your family or even if you are socially isolated:
- Use the kitchen to show you care: Cooking is a way for us to provide nourishment – so why not do that for our family with a favorite comfort meal. Think pot roast and mashed potatoes. Macaroni and cheese. Pick a favorite and cook it up.
- Use the kitchen to build communication and connection: After running a crazy schedule, why not hang out with that one family member you want to reconnect with – whether that’s a child or a spouse or anyone who lives in your house. Or if you live alone, FaceTime or video call a favorite family member or friend and cook together. This is a great time to catch up and even ask fun questions using conversation cards or for your significant other, ask questions that you would typically ask on a first date! Make a favorite meal that someone in your family enjoys and make it together.
- Use the kitchen to build confidence: There is always something we have been wanting to learn but didn’t have the time – so why not make it a fun challenge to accomplish? Why not finally figure out that pizza crust recipe you have been meaning to do, or learn and use the new kitchen tool (hello pressure cooker or air fryer) that you received for a gift that you haven’t had much time to play with?
- Use the kitchen to make life special: Make your meal and pull out the special dishes that are only used a couple times a year, bring out the cloth napkins and the favorite bottle of wine (or your favorite beverage!) and then include a legacy meal – one that holds a special place on the table from someone that passed the recipe down to you. Play some nice music. Light a candle. Create an experience with the senses!
- Use the kitchen to complete your list. Now is the time to try that recipe you have been meaning to try. To make that thing that your kid has been asking to make and you didn’t have time. To experiment with an ingredient that has been in the pantry a little too long. Now is the time.
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