Why I Rarely Eat Meals Not Home-Cooked
Meal times can be a joyous or stressful affair, depending on how well you’ve planned and prepared. While I may indulge in a meal I don't cook only a couple of times a month, this habit is more the exception than the norm. Let me share why I often find myself cooking at home.
As a skilled cook, I approached my initial struggles with the kitchen as a challenge. Proving myself to my first wife, who said I would starve without knowing how to cook, taught me the ropes. I am not the same novice I once was; forty-six years of practice have honed my skills, and today, I can provide myself with better and more varied meals by cooking at home. Furthermore, with my garden providing a steady supply of fresh produce, the variety and quality of my meals are highly commendable.
Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
One of the key reasons I consistently cook at home is efficiency. My large freezer at home enables me to stock up on ingredients, saving both time and money. When I buy meats and seafood in bulk, I can portion them out and store them in the freezer. This way, whenever I need a meal, I can simply pull something out, thaw it, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked dish.
Looking back, my first wife's statement served as a powerful motivator. Taking her critique as a challenge to learn and improve, I delved into the art of cooking. Today, I can confidently say that I have learned to cook and have greatly benefited from it. Not only in the realm of domesticity, but also in terms of nutrition and enjoyment.
Meal Preparation on the Weekend
Weekends find me in the kitchen, not just for spontaneous cravings but for meal prepping. I dedicate a portion of my time to preparing meals that I can enjoy throughout the week. For example, a few Saturdays ago, I set aside a day to prepare a batch of gumbo or shrimp creole. This was enough to make six servings, perfect for a family or friends, and ideal for my freezer to save for days when I don't feel like cooking. Additionally, I sliced a pork loin and prepared individual servings of pork chops. I then cooked and froze the pork Marsala for a future meal.
Having these prepared meals in the freezer not only ensures that I have delicious options when it comes to eating, but it also allows me the flexibility to pick something easy when I'm tired or short on time. Whether it's a hearty stew, a stir-fry, or even quick meals like chicken quesadillas, I know I can rely on my own creations to fill my plate. This has significantly reduced the temptation to opt for takeout or dining out.
Benefits of Home-Cooking
The benefits of home-cooking extend far beyond just saving money and time. Cooking at home gives me control over the ingredients and flavors, ensuring that my meals are fresh, nutritious, and tailored to my taste preferences. Having a garden provides a constant supply of herbs and vegetables that further enhance the flavor and quality of my dishes. Moreover, it's a great way to unwind and enjoy time in the kitchen, turning meal preparation into a cherished routine.
In conclusion, while I may not cook every meal at home, the benefits of home-cooking outweigh the occasional indulgence in less convenient options. The satisfaction of knowing exactly what I'm eating, the joy of preparing meals, and the peace of mind that comes with being well-prepared make cooking at home a rewarding and indispensable part of my life.