Am I a Cook?

I always thought that I was more of a baker than a cook. Baking during the holidays or on special occasions when I'm having guests or going to a party has always been one of my favorite things to do. Well one thing this year has taught me is that I really enjoy cooking, and am actually becoming quite good at it! I've only baked a few times this year and while I enjoyed it immensely, I get to cook every day.

Now that we eat fresh, whole foods rather than processed foods, I am learning so much about cooking methods and trying new things. This summer I learned to grill and even Thad has to admit I do it better than he does :) I'm cooking in a wok often as well. And fresh herbs! They used to be reserved for special meals like Thanksgiving or cilantro for mexican dishes, and I'd use dried the rest of the time - now I don't think I could go back! This summer I regularly have had cilantro, parsley, mint, dill and basil in the fridge and even found myself looking for recipes just to use them. Amazing what a difference it can make in flavor.

The past month or so I have slipped in my meal planning and instead have found myself improvising meals according to what veggies or herbs we have in the fridge and even cooking without recipes - and it's turned out great! I think that means I can call myself a cook now :) I still plan to get back to my meal planning and trying new recipes, but I have a new found confidence! Perhaps sometime this fall or winter I'll even take a cooking class!