The Food That Made Me

Kids, in the spring of 2020, there was a global meltdown. Mommy and I were planning to have a wedding in May, but due to the circumstances, that got canceled. So, we opted for tiny ceremony instead. We lived with your uncle, my oldest sister, and your two oldest cousins for a while.

Your cousin was having classes on Zoom when she was five. That was crazy! School classes, piano, art, etc.

But, I guess two good things to came out of the pandemic were more Zoom meetings and more work-from-home days.

My brother-in-law graciously cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner. After about a month, my sister and brother-in-law asked me and your mommy to start chipping in. They said we can cook the Hello Fresh meals a couple of times a week. In these curated meals, everything arrives measured out already, and you just have to follow the cooking instructions.

My inner monologue: “I have been the dishwasher. Why are you asking me to cook? Do you want food poisoning? I only know how to steam tofu. I don’t think that you would want instant ramen for dinner.” But, as far as I know, over the last five years I haven’t given anyone food poisoning.

The Hello Fresh meal kits felt simple and straightforward. I loved the cards with all the ingredients and detailed instructions listed, and also gotchas – such as “be sure to rub off the marinade so that it doesn’t scorch.” Most of the ingredients came in the exact amount that was needed. Most of the recipes tasted good.

My favorite was the pasta with cheese, tomatoes, and chicken. The secret? Cream cheese, heavy cream, and lots of cheese. Yum. Yum.

Not all of them were a success, though. But it did light a spark in me. Hello Fresh gave me a growth mindset that I can improve on my cooking. I could follow the specific instructions and create an edible meal. Slowly, I learned different techniques and understood more about the science of cooking.

I’m very thankful that they told me to cook. Because, now I not only critique the food, but I understand the inner workings of what seems like a simple task. I have an even stronger appreciation for what has been put on my plate.