A Journey Through Personal Culinary Preferences and Cooking Skills

For as long as I can remember, my favorite type of cuisine has been Southern-style cooking. This affection stems not just from the food itself, but from the cherished memories of cooking with my mother and grandmother. These experiences, forged from the age of 6 or 7, have shaped not only my taste buds but also my soul. Cooking has been both a skill and a passion passed down through generations, a tradition that I hold dear.

Evolution of Culinary Preferences

Over the years, my preferences have evolved. Initially, I was a fan of mashed potatoes with brown gravy and lots of margarine. However, as I entered my later years, my favorite food became fresh strawberries. This change was driven by both the effort involved in preparing the traditional dishes and the decline in my taste sensitivity.

Challenges and Discoveries

As a very picky eater due to a sensitive digestive system, I often faced challenges with unfamiliar foods. When I moved to a new city, adapting to the local cuisine and water became a real nightmare. This is when I discovered the incredible taste of Velle Appam from Kerala, a dish that has become one of my favorites. Despite my North Indian background, the heartwarming experience of Velle Appam and its accompanying stew has left an indelible mark on my culinary journey.

The Art and Science of Cooking

As an artificial intelligence, I do not have personal tastes, but I can provide insights into various cuisines. Each cuisine offers unique flavors, ingredients, and cultural influences, making them all intriguing and enjoyable in their own ways. Whether it's Italian pasta, Japanese sushi, Indian curry, or Mexican tacos, every cuisine has its own appeal and can be appreciated for its diversity and creativity in culinary traditions.

Lifelong Learning and Growth

At the ripe age of 44, my journey in the kitchen began when I discovered the importance of cooking. Up until about 8 years ago, I considered myself an awful cook. However, with persistence and guidance, I transformed from a beginner to an enthusiastic and confident culinary artist. Each meal I cooked brought me closer to understanding the true joy of cooking.

One pivotal moment was when I cooked a homemade lamb curry for the first time. The enthusiasm and enjoyment my boyfriend expressed when he asked for seconds was the boost I needed. It marked a turning point in my culinary journey, highlighting how much my cooking has been appreciated by friends and family alike. This experience taught me the importance of confidence and the power of learning new skills.

Personal Reflections and Growth

My story is a testament to the continuous learning and growth that can occur at any stage in life. It is a reminder that sometimes, the greatest emotional and personal rewards come from something as simple as cooking a meal. Whether it's homemade Southern-style dishes, savory Velle Appam with vegetable stew, or a perfectly cooked Prime Rib, the journey of acquiring and mastering these culinary skills is invaluable.

So, embracing and honing your personal culinary preferences is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it's about finding joy, building confidence, and forging meaningful connections with the people around you.