Dining In the Pandemic is Fading Out But My Passion For Cooking is Simmering

The pandemic has changed a lot of things, from interpersonal relationships to dining experiences. Changes can be scary, but they also offer opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. As a gastronome who found joy in trying new restaurants and cafes, my initial phase of lockdown consisted of takeouts and disappointments, since the delivery foods would never taste as good as those eaten at restaurants. It was not until I indulged myself in Bon Appétit cooking videos did I realize it was time for a switch. 

Before the pandemic, the only thing I could make was avocado toast with failed poached eggs. My failure made me avoid cooking as often as I could. I did not want to face my shortcomings, but I was so inspired by Bon Appétit cooking videos prior to the show’s scandals. I fell in love with the creativity and energy in the test kitchen. 

Bon Appétit’s cooking videos inspired me a lot— I think I should write a love letter to Claire Saffiz since her Gourmet Make series has encouraged me to pick up my kitchen utensils. I started baking banana bread with the ingredients I had on hand. The flavor was not surprising, but the feeling of achievement drove me to test other recipes, such as no-knead bread and pancakes.  

My mom played a crucial role in building my confidence in cooking and made me find the charm of dining in. Cooking for others is the easiest way to let people feel what is on your mind, start an interesting conversation, and have a good time. When you dine in, no one really cares about the professional cook you are. Instead, they appreciate the time and effort you put into making the night special. It is not about comparison but being joyful and present.  

Some believe cooking is stressful, while others think it is a time to be alone with your own thoughts while waiting for the food to be ready. Sometimes when I am hungry and have no energy to cook, a bowl of dumplings is my go-to. When it comes to something fancier, especially when I am in a good mood, the mushroom cream chicken stew is my favorite on a winter night. 

When I flew back to Boston in April, my mom was no longer by my side, but she still sends me supportive messages on my cooking journey. Ever since I moved off-campus into my little studio, I cooked as much as I could and invited friends for dinner on weekends. From beef tomato pasta to chicken green curry, I started to notice the charm of dining in, where there is a level of comfort and relaxation you can’t find at a restaurant. 

Surprisingly, surveys have shown that approximately 70 percent of Americans will continue the home cooking trend after the pandemic since it is healthier, cheaper and safer. So why not try it yourself, and make it a new year’s resolution? Truly, 2020 was a year of magical thinking that allowed us to reflect, adapt, and move forward. It was a year I realized everything is not static,

and only when you are not stubborn could you experience the wonder your surroundings offer. 

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