In a recent controversial statement, Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of iFood, a Brazilian food delivery app, sparked outrage by proclaiming, "In 10 years, nobody will cook anymore." While his words may have been revised later, the sentiment struck a chord with those of us who hold the tradition of home cooking dear to our hearts.
As a health coach and mother deeply entrenched in the wellness world, I found Bloisi's initial assertion particularly jarring. For me, cooking is not just about preparing meals; it is a cherished ritual that nourishes the soul, fosters connection, and engages the senses in ways that dining out or ordering in simply cannot replicate.
Growing up, I treasured the weekly trips to the farmer's market with my grandmothers. It was an experience filled with anticipation and delight, as we sampled fresh produce and shared stories along the way. The vibrant colors of fresh produce, the fragrant aroma of herbs, and the lively atmosphere filled me with excitement. We would eagerly navigate the stalls, sampling ripe fruits and crisp vegetables, and engaging in animated conversations with the local farmers. These outings were not just about procuring ingredients; they were a cherished ritual that brought us closer together as a family. As we strolled through the market, my grandmothers would share stories of their own childhoods, passing down traditional recipes and culinary wisdom with each step. Those moments taught me that food is more than sustenance; it is a celebration of family, tradition, community, and love.
I vividly recall the pride I felt as I embarked on culinary adventures in the kitchen with my grandmothers. Those memories have stayed with me throughout my life, shaping my belief in the power of home cooking to create lasting bonds and cherished moments.
Now, as a mother myself, I see the same sense of pride and joy reflected in my children when we cook together. For them, cooking is not merely a life skill; it is a connection to their heritage and a way to express their creativity and love. My hope is that they will continue to pass this along to their children and grandchildren.
While I appreciate the convenience of dining out or ordering in on busy days, I firmly believe that nothing can replace the sacred act of cooking at home. It is where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and bonds are strengthened.
I also believe in supporting local family-owned restaurants, as they too play an integral role in our communities.
Once, when my kids were small, a small pizza restaurant opened on my street. As a way to support them, we made sure to order pizza from them. At the time, they didn’t offer delivery service, so we went to pick up our orders. The kitchen was visible through a glass window. This quaint establishment had no tables or chairs, just a window through which customers could watch the kitchen at work and a counter to pay and collect their pizza. One day, while chatting with the owner, I proposed bringing the kids to make pizza in his kitchen. He was delighted and welcomed the idea with open arms, inviting us to join him for a special evening of pizza making. Since his place was still fairly new, it wasn’t busy at all. I brought my kids and their friends, who were our next-door neighbors in the building we lived in. The children had a blast, experimenting with various pizza toppings and flavors, while passersby stopped to peer through the window, intrigued by the lively scene unfolding inside. Needless to say, this impromptu pizza-making session sparked a surge in business for the owner, who was deeply appreciative of the memorable experience he provided to the kids. This heartwarming encounter serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local restaurant owners and fostering connections within our communities. By patronizing these establishments and sharing our positive experiences, we can contribute to a thriving local economy and create a ripple effect of goodwill and support.
Additionally, cooking at home stimulates all our senses, creating a multi-dimensional culinary experience that is truly unique. The vibrant colors of fresh produce, the fragrant aroma of herbs sizzling in the pan, and the symphony of sounds emanating from the kitchen all contribute to the sensory feast. As we chop, sauté, and simmer, we engage not only our sense of taste but also our sense of touch and smell, heightening our connection to the food we prepare. The anticipation of a delicious meal, the sizzle of ingredients hitting the hot skillet, and the comforting aroma that fills the air evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, transporting us to a place of comfort and familiarity. Ultimately, cooking at home is a holistic experience that nourishes both body and soul, inviting us to slow down, savor the moment, and revel in the simple pleasures of life.
Cooking at home is more than just a means to an end; it is a celebration of life, love, and connection. So, to Mr. Bloisi and other proponents of convenience over tradition, I urge you to reconsider the profound value of home cooking. Let us not lose sight of the beauty and richness that it brings to our lives, and may we continue to embrace the joys of gathering around the family table and savoring the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal.
At Crunchy Mama Box we offer health & wellness resources to help you and your family on your journey to living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. If you are looking for a safe place to vent, find love and support, join our private Facebook group Crunchy Mama Strong.
Lots of Crunchy Love,
Wanda
