I hope everyone is having a happy heart day! So, I had to include a little DC food blogger love in this series. After all, it’s where this blog got it’s start. So I’m happy to welcome Alejandra from One Bite at a Time. She’s always inspiring me with her kitchen concoctions, fabulous dining experiences, and social media expertise. She definitely deserves a follow on Twitter!
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A Guide For Two Cooks In The Kitchen
When Nikki originally asked me to do a Valentine’s day guest post I was excited, but at a loss as to what to write about. Then I recalled a conversation I had with a chef friend of mine.
Food is so many things, but most importantly food is all about love. And on special days, it’s quite sexy too! My chef friend asked me if I’d ever cooked with someone before and imagine his surprise when I said no, no I had not. For loving food as much as I do and cooking or baking all the time, I’d never cooked with someone!
Whether you cook with friends, a new love, or a time-tested love cooking with someone can be so special! So here’s what I’ve learned so far:
Keep it simple. One pot dishes like basic braised short ribs or a beef stew are easy and double down on taste. Pair that with a creamy polenta and dinner is set!
We all know reading the recipe is so important before we set off to cook a dish, but especially so when cooking with someone. This is the time to divide up the tasks! This way everyone stays out of each other’s way.
Chop, stir, and sip your way to dinner! Maybe mix a cocktail, or pour a glass of delicious wine but let’s not forget we’re having a little bit of fun here!
For heaven’s sake, turn off the tv and turn on the iTunes (or the Pandora, or the Spotify…whatever you are using)! I’ve always loved cooking to music – while I’m more apt to put on Shakira or Madeleine Peyroux depending on my mood, maybe it’s Lil Wayne or Carrie Underwood that suits your evening? Either way, a dance party in the kitchen and some spontaneous singing into your wooden spoon is just what an evening makes!
If your cooking partner is of the more romantic variety, a dish that needs to sit a bit – like a braise or a soup – gives you plenty of time for a cuddle and maybe a kiss or two. That’s where the wine or cocktail might also play a role? Of course, then there’s roast chicken and we know what Ruhlman thinks of that!
I’m having fun cooking with people lately – you certainly learn there’s a rhythm to how you operate in your kitchen – but mixing it up with a laugh, a dance, or something sweeter only makes a meal that much better! Do you like to share cooking responsibilities? What are your favorite things to make with someone?
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