“If at first you don’t succeed, you’re not Chuck Norris.”
So, it comes to no surprise to everyone that I, Holly, am NOT Chuck Norris. Otherwise I’d be able to do apron-clad roundhouse kicks while mixing away… without a mixer! (Though that would make for an AWESOME entry!)
Instead I’m stuck trying to find my way in the foodie world that is so confusing and, frankly, a big intimidation factor for a novice chef. Cooking is so subjective- everyone has different preferences and an opinion on fabulous food. There are a million recipes out there too, which is a bit overwhelming! Just try searching salmon on Foodtv.com and you’ll get 1,069 entries. Look for cookbooks at Borders and you’ll have more than 16,000 options. (I’m now sticking to easy recipes by chefs I enjoy watching like Ina Garten, Giada and Bethenny Frankle.)
Also factor in the stress from shopping for the raw items to be turned into a meal that rivals a favorite restaurant. Even the Big O (O as in Oprah, sorry boys) did a show on how to grocery shop. (This was so informative and scared me into shopping at Whole Foods for the rest of my life.)
Better Luck Chuck: my plan of attack is to simply plan. I now narrow my search for things I love to eat like steak, salmon and goat cheese. Once I find something that doesn’t look too complicated, I plan out my menu with the grocery list along the side. I highly recommend this for newbies or experienced chefs especially since something easy like a can of tomatoes can be overwhelming when you see a million different kinds on the shelf. Here’s mine for the upcoming week:
Fun/Glam Tip: lists don’t look too pretty or inspiring unless you write them on monogrammed cards or patterned stationary- I write mine on legal pads. So I bring the ugly yellow sheet to the grocery store in my Kate Spade planner to make it look a tad nicer and, honestly, make it appear as though I know what I’m doing! Also, the list can be a fun excuse to go in the same aisle as a cute boy for an extra look! (Hey, he doesn’t know what’s actually on your list!)
