According to Wikipedia, The Joy of Cooking is one of the United States’ most-published cookbooks. It has been in print continuously since 1931 and has sold more than 20 million copies.
Unlike other cookbooks of the time, the author Irma Rombauer, did not use the standard format for a cookbook. Ingredients were not listed separately, but instead, the recipe was laid out in a narrative, step by step through the process, with ingredients named in bold as they arose. The recipes also included baking times, size of pans needed, new methods for cooking meat, and it included recipes for leftovers and use of pre-made, canned products where appropriate.This conversational tone is what made the book appeal to readers, who could both see themselves — and see their aspirational selves — in the pages of Joy of Cooking.
This cookbook has taught generations of novices how to cook with grace and humor. Even Julia Child learned to cook from The Joy of Cooking. She enjoyed “Mrs. Joy’s Book” and believed it taught her the basic principles of cooking.
Cooking only became a joyous affair for me in the last decade, and even then, those who know me would be surprised to see me following a recipe, let alone open a cookbook.
My style is inventive, and shall we say experimental? I will read recipes, weeks before and make a mental note of ingredients, and will attempt a version of the recipe using my own idea of ingredients, or what’s in the pantry.
“A recipe has no soul. You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe.”
– Thomas Keller
I do have a good understanding of complimentary flavours, and what spices work well together etc, and I have watched enough cooking shows to have picked up on the use of mustard to enhance flavours, or lemon to lighten and freshen a dish or the use of butter to make sauces more silky and smooth.
“Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors—it’s how you combine them that sets you apart.”
– Wolfgang Puck
I will usually succeed, but sadly the dish will rarely be replicated as is, because I forget to measure and the ingredients are improvised. My technique is ideal for making great soups, sauces, salad dishes and stews.
I enjoy the “idea” of cooking for several reasons:
1. Cooking allows me to express my creativity by experimenting with flavors, textures, and presentation.
2. I like how it engages your senses—smelling spices, feeling textures, and tasting your creations—can be a joyful and immersive experience.
3. There’s no doubt that successfully preparing a delicious meal can be a source of accomplishment and pride, boosting one’s mood.
4. Cooking for others or with loved ones adds a joyful element to the activity.
My husband and I had opposing styles to cooking. He measured meticulously and followed the recipe to the letter. He preheated the oven, he marinated, he allowed dough to rise, meat to sit, and all with precise timers.
We did not cook together, but we prepared meals together. He handled the critical parts like cooking meats, and baking while I planned the meal, and chopped, sliced, diced and seasoned.
Together, we enjoyed hosting and cooking. We enjoyed setting a beautiful table for our guests. Best of all, he took care of the clean up.
I’ve watched my mother cook for others, and I have seen how for her, it appears to be an expression of care and affection, making it a powerful and meaningful act of love.
I know that providing someone with a homemade meal is her way to nourish and care for their well-being. She shows thoughtfulness and consideration, seeking to tailor a meal to someone’s preferences or dietary needs.
As a family, we have often prepared meals together for festive occasions. In most cultures, cooking and sharing food often involves familial traditions, creating a connection and a sense of belonging.
“Cooking with kids is not just about ingredients, recipes, and cooking. It’s about harnessing imagination, empowerment, and creativity.”
– Guy Fieri
Cooking allows you to express emotions like joy, comfort, or celebration through the act of preparing and sharing a meal. These shared meals become part of shared memories, fostering a sense of togetherness and creating lasting, positive experiences.
Indeed, it would appear that cooking brings out joy, in many ways. Something to consider next time you pick up a knife and cutting board.
