@The Desserter
Cooking for me went from a challenge, to unavoidable, to interesting, to comfortable and now a hobby and delight over a period of nearly two decades. Now I cook only when inspired. New and unusual tastes inspire me. Have those "cook all that comes my way" days too. Some of my best recipes originate then. Many moments of serendipity in the kitchen were lost till a friend told me to write them down (just that-and I never thought of it till his suggestion!!) Ladies of my family (for their help) and men and kids I know (for their expectations) have contributed in my comfort in matters culinary. Their patience, praises and criticisms and even the lack of it have been invaluable. Specially my husband's ability to smile and say "its nice" after tasting my experiments that turned to ash in my own mouth. I prefer cooking alone. I incorporate recipes and style from all over. Deciphering tastes at restaurants and parties, and trying them out is a little game I love. Not attending cooking courses has been a conscious decision as I feel it may regiment my cooking. Every combination and style is a possibility in my mind. I spend hours with recipe books and finally - most of the time - cook a combination of things.