In our fast-paced and often hectic lives, self-care has become a buzzword that holds tremendous significance. It’s a practice that goes beyond bubble baths and spa days – it’s about consciously nurturing our well-being, both physically and mentally. One powerful and gratifying way to engage in self-care for me is through the art of cooking. In this blog post, let’s explore how cooking a great meal can be a form of self-care that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul.
The Therapeutic Power of Cooking
Cooking is more than just a means of sustenance; it’s a creative outlet that allows you to channel your emotions and energy into something tangible. The process of chopping, stirring, and sautéing can be surprisingly therapeutic, acting as a form of meditation that helps ease stress and anxiety. As you engage with the ingredients, you become fully present in the moment, letting go of worries and allowing your mind to find a sense of calm.
Mindful Engagement
Cooking a great meal requires focus and attention to detail. This mindfulness extends beyond the kitchen, as practicing attentive cooking encourages you to be present in other areas of your life as well. When you’re mindful while cooking, you make deliberate choices, savor the aroma of herbs and spices, and relish the textures and colors of the ingredients. This kind of mindfulness can spill over into your daily routine, promoting a more conscious and intentional approach to life.
Creative Expression
Cooking is an art, and the kitchen is your canvas. Experimenting with flavors, textures, and presentations allows you to express your creativity in a delicious and tangible way. Whether you’re trying a new recipe or improvising with what you have on hand, the act of cooking sparks your imagination and gives you a sense of accomplishment when you see the final masterpiece on the plate.
A Sense of Achievement
Completing a complex recipe or preparing a multi-course meal provides a sense of achievement that boosts your self-esteem. As you create a culinary masterpiece, you’re reminded of your ability to take on challenges and accomplish goals. This boost in confidence can transcend the kitchen and positively impact other aspects of your life, empowering you to tackle obstacles with a newfound vigor.
Nourishing Your Body and Soul
Cooking a great meal as an act of self-care goes beyond just feeding your body; it’s about nourishing your soul. When you put effort into selecting quality ingredients, preparing them with care, and savoring each bite, you’re sending a powerful message to yourself: you deserve the time and attention you’re investing in this meal. This practice of self-nourishment fosters a sense of self-worth and self-love, which are essential components of overall well-being.
Sharing the Love
Cooking a great meal can also be an act of love and connection when shared with others. Inviting friends or family to join you in the kitchen or sitting down to enjoy a meal together creates bonds and cherished memories. The act of giving through food can be deeply fulfilling, and the shared experience enhances the positive effects of your self-care practice.
In a world that often emphasizes productivity and external achievements, taking the time to cook a great meal for yourself can be a radical act of self-care. It’s a practice that engages your senses, nurtures your creativity, and provides a sense of accomplishment. So, the next time you find yourself seeking a way to care for your well-being, consider stepping into the kitchen and cooking up a delicious meal – a hearty dose of self-care that nourishes both body and soul. Here below is a recipe I made the other night that was easy, delicious, and just a joy to make and to share. Try it yourself. Take care of yourself.
Thai Chicken Skewers in a Peanut Satay
3 Chicken breasts – cut into long, thin strips
1 tbsp Tamari (gluten free)
2 garlic cloves – peeled and crushed
7 oz (200ml) coconut milk – from a tin
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp coriander
¼ tsp ground ginger
Satay sauce:
3 heaped tbsp smooth peanut butter
1 tbsp Tamari (gluten free)
½ tsp chilli flakes – (red pepper flakes)
1 tbsp Fish sauce
7 oz (200ml) coconut milk – from a tin
1 tbsp light brown sugar
½ tsp ground coriander
Juice of 1 lime
To Serve:
fresh red Thai chillis – thinly sliced
2 tbsp Fresh cilantro – chopped
½ tsp chilli flakes – (red pepper flakes)
¼ red onion – peeled and finely sliced
1 tbsp roasted peanuts – roughly chopped
1 tsp sesame seeds
INSTRUCTIONS
- Begin by soaking 8 wooden skewers in water for half an hour. This will prevent them from burning when cooking.
- Place the sliced chicken breast in a large bowl with the rest of the chicken skewer ingredients. Mix together using your hands and massage the sauce into the chicken for a minute. Cover and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 mins.
- While the meat is marinating, place all of the satay sauce ingredients EXCEPT for the lime juice into a small pan.
- Heat over medium heat whilst stirring with a wooden spoon. The sauce will look thin at first, then as it comes close to boiling point, it will start to thicken. Don’t let the sauce boil, just turn down the heat as it approaches boiling point and stir until thickened, then turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice.
- Take the skewers out of the water and give them a shake to remove excess water, then thread the chicken strips onto the skewers, and place the skewers on a plate.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown – turning a couple of times during cooking.
- Place the skewers on plates, then reheat the satay sauce if you like it hot. Top with your Satay sauce, fresh cilantro, a few slices of red chilli, some red pepper flakes, chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and thinly sliced red onion.