Those who know me and those who’ve read my blogs will know I’m not a cook. In fact so bad a cook am I, that when I was younger I was banned from cooking because everything I made I burned.
I do like reading the odd Nigella recipe and have even been know to turn out okay versions of Delia Smith’s creations, but I am not a cook. I’ll say it again – I’m not a good cook.
Thing is now I don’t really have any choice in the matter, not after our household chef only went and got himself a day job, one that requires proper sustenance after a hard day in the office or driving round the country, as his role entails. Not my attempts at healthy cuisine such as peanut butter and rice, no he needs dishes that often require lots of cheese and, gasp, pastry!
I’m getting there though, my macaroni cheese isn’t too bad and tonight I’ve manged to avoid burning the onions for the gnocchi sauce.
My new energies in the kitchen mean I have to plan ahead for Imogen’s meals. I’ve managed to pull together rice, chicken and vegetables without burning it, and even a baby dahl which she liked until she went off tomatoes.
Children eh? Faddy fussy eaters but – went you’ve got your own chef, why not?
I’m not a fan of packet food. But I’d had a rubbish day chasing payments and what should arrive through the door but a sample of a ready-made pumpkin risotto. Perfect. It took 12 mintues to make and Immy loved it. I didn’t look at the salt content but Riso Gallo Risotto Pronto, £1.99 from Waitrose, was just what we needed, thanks kindly PR.It has also inspired me to try and make risotto, but don’t hold your breath.
Other packet foods I’m not ashamed of having in the cupboard include, gnocchi (and pesto), custard (very good when having three fussy eaters to cater for), chopped spinach, ready-cooked rice (admittedly cooked by me then frozen) and UHT milk for smoothies.
I don’t think it’s too bad to eat from packets now and again!
(Pic by HerryLawford courtesy of Flickr)
