Dear Dorothy,
I’m feeling really down about my lack of cooking skills. I’ve never been able to cook, and I’m almost embarrassed about it. Everyone I know can whip up meals effortlessly, but I can barely make a cup of tea without burning it. I’ve tried a few times, but each attempt seems to end in disaster. I feel like I’m letting myself and others down, and sometimes I even feel like I’m not being “grown-up” because I can’t cook. Do you have any advice on how I can improve, or am I doomed to live off takeaway forever?
Sincerely,
Kate
Dear Kate,
First off, let me reassure you: You are definitely not doomed to a life of takeaway! Many people feel the same way you do at some point in their lives, and the good news is, cooking is a skill that anyone can learn with a little patience and practice.
Let’s break it down:
- Start simple: Begin with easy, no-fuss recipes that don’t require any special techniques. A few scrambled eggs, a simple pasta dish, or a stir-fry with pre-cut veggies can be a great place to start. These recipes are forgiving, and you’ll get to practice without too much pressure.
- Watch and Learn: If you’re not a natural at cooking, don’t worry! There are countless online resources available, like YouTube cooking tutorials, or apps with step-by-step instructions. The key here is to watch someone else do it first—this way, you can follow along and see exactly what’s involved.
- Take baby steps: Start small with a single meal or side dish. Once you’ve mastered that, you’ll feel more confident to move on to other dishes. Each little win will build your cooking muscle.
- Get the right tools: Sometimes, lack of success in the kitchen is due to not having the right equipment. Make sure you have a few basic utensils, like a good knife, a frying pan, and a pot. Good tools make cooking much easier and more enjoyable.
- Be kind to yourself: Cooking is a process, and it’s okay if you make mistakes. Most of us have burned a meal or two. Don’t be discouraged by minor setbacks. Each attempt teaches you something new.
- Involve others: If you’re feeling extra self-conscious, cook alongside a friend or family member who’s more experienced. It’s a great way to ease into things, and you’ll probably have fun while learning!
Lastly, remember—no one starts out perfect in the kitchen. You’re learning a new skill, and it will take time. But the fact that you’re motivated to improve already sets you on the right path.
So, next time you feel unsure about cooking, try one of the simple dishes and remember, you’ve got this!
Best,
Dorothy