Creativity in the Kitchen

Creativity can be found in all sorts of places.

Food is fuel. We need it to function, to concentrate, to get us through the day. I understand there is a privilege that comes with this post, not everyone has the ability to afford, access or enjoy food.

I want to talk about cooking as a daily creative opportunity, in the hope that you can find kitchen confidence and eating inspiration.

Creativity as a muscle

I'm a huge believer that we are all creative people. Comments from others in the past or lack of self belief might have squashed that light over the years - maybe even just feeling like you're sinking in a sea of perfectionism online or from the telly.

What if we were to reframe 'being a creative person' - a phrase where somehow you might feel like you either fit into that camp or not. Let's look at it as a 'creative muscle' instead. Something that can be stretched when we use it and that will harness even more creative ideas over time.

Cooking as self care

Whilst we are being told that self-care isn't just running a bubble bath, it now includes setting boundaries and looking after your energy- BUT what if food can squeeze in there too. Taking time to have a think about your favourite flavours, maybe you're thinking about a seafood paella or a pesto panini? What lights you up and makes you want to engage with food?

Go even further and set the scene, use your favourite plate, create a cosy corner and get your favourite music on!

A considered meal can make anyone feel better and even more so if you can connect with someone else whilst you enjoy it.

Connecting with others via food

I'm happy to announce that I'm that irritating person in the workshop who likes to ask what every one has packed for their lunch - I'll often ask what everyone is planning for tea too.

It starts conversation and opens up more information about that person - plus I'm nosey and hope to be inspired.

Nothing turns heads more quickly in our workspace than someone walking into the room and announcing 'I've made a cake!'. That wonderful opportunity to sit and enjoy our food together or a simple fika break.

Sharing food and eating together goes back squillions of years and there's probably an inbuilt reason why we enjoy meal times together as a way to connect- there's something quite tribal about it.

No pressure.

You don't need to mill your own flour, grow your own tomatoes or complete a butchery course to produce tasty food. Like with anything, use the resources around you, your budget and your tastes to produce something that you will enjoy.

The second best bit is that if you didn't enjoy what you cooked. You don't need to eat it, move on, it was one meal you didn't particularly enjoy. In a couple of hours, you'll get the opportunity to try something else.

Sometimes after a long day, there is no energy or enthusiasm left to cook anything and food as fuel is needed to fulfil that role. Maybe take a moment to have a think about what you would like to cook if you had more energy- write it down for a time when you do have a bit more headspace to create.

Feel free to link your favourite recipes in the comments below

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