08 Aug Cooking for Sanity
I’ve found, much to my dismay, that recent work deadlines have prevented me from spending a great deal of time in the kitchen. Cooking has always been my way to unwind; to empty my mind of the stresses of the day and work with tangible, perishable goods whose delicate flavors rest in my hands. Without that expense of energy, I find myself a bit too pent up for my own good.
Since this connection to my kitchen (and this physical release) is so important, I’ve committed myself to preparing at least 2 or 3 fairly elaborate dishes per week; given the present heat and humidity, the past few days have been focused on the creation of ice creams and sorbets. Not only does this enable me to play in my garden, foraging for ingredients, but the vigorous whisking of custard offers an outlet for any mental frustrations I may have at a given moment. The mechanical nature of such an activity allows my mind to work through problems on a less conscious level, where the answers tend to present themselves unexpectedly. It also feels really good to get away from my laptop for a few hours.
Cooking: cheaper than therapy, nourishing for the body and soul.