Some days I wish I had a culinary degree, but I’m really not in the mood for anymore school for a while ?.

But I’ve been cooking for myself for the last 12 years now so I’ve learned a few things.

The first rule in my kitchen is one must dance!

Rule No 2: don’t be afraid of failure. I’ve made my share of questionable (at best) meals. But I’ve learned those most from those errors.

Rule No 3: e x p e r i m e n t! It’s how I learned to create meals, instead of strictly following recipes.

Rule No 4: take a picture! If it’s not on social media did it really happen? Also I look back at the pictures for inspiration if I don’t know what to cook.

When putting a meal together I start with a base. Rice, quinoa, pasta, or lentils. Whichever I’m feeling that day. Next I think about a protein: beans, chickpeas, lentils, or tofu. From here, I add veggies and condiments.

During the weeks where I don’t have time to cook each meal I meal prep. I see how many and which meals I need to have prepared in advance, and then I plan a menu.

My go-to for breakfast is the above pictured pancakes. They’re oatmeal banana pancakes. Easy to make, easy to store, and they reheat well. Other times I’ll make tofu scramble and hash browns. If I’m feeling simple, oatmeal with fruit and peanut butter is always successful.

For lunch and dinner I like to plan “remixable” items. Meaning I make some bases and then I can add different toppings and condiments through the week to change the flavors.

I like to have fun with my food! Eating should be an enjoyable experience!

I hope this finds you well! Until next time 🙂

Christyna

P.s. Yes, all those pictures are mine!