How can I incorporate cooking into my routine? Currently, I mainly rely on TV dinners and canned food.
When those run out, my go-to meals are pasta with jarred sauce or boiled rice with canned vegetables. However, I’m not familiar with many other cooking methods and feel a bit lost when it comes to exploring options.
On top of that, I struggle with depression, which makes it hard to feel motivated to cook.
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed when it comes to cooking, especially if you’re just starting out and dealing with depression. Here are some simple and manageable steps you can take to make cooking more accessible and enjoyable:
Start Small: Focus on a few simple recipes that don’t require too many ingredients or complicated steps. Look for recipes that appeal to you and are easy to prepare. Scrambled eggs, stir-fried vegetables, or one-pot meals can be great options to start with.
Embrace Easy Ingredients: Since you’re already comfortable with pasta and rice, try to incorporate other easy-to-use ingredients. Consider frozen fruits and vegetables—they’re often just as nutritious as fresh ones, require no prep, and can be easily added to meals.
Prepare Simple Meals: Look for meals that can be made in 30 minutes or less. For instance, a quesadilla with cheese and whatever veggies or beans you have, or a simple soup made with broth and canned beans and tomatoes.
Plan Ahead: When you feel up for it, try to plan a couple of meals for the week. This can help reduce the stress of last-minute decisions. Having a few go-to recipes can also help you feel more confident.
Cooking as Self-Care: Try to view cooking as an act of self-care rather than a chore. Put on some music or a podcast while you cook to make it more enjoyable. Focus on the process rather than the outcome; it’s okay if things don’t turn out perfectly.
Involve Others: If possible, try cooking with a friend or family member. Sometimes, having someone with you can make the experience less daunting and more fun.
Use Online Resources: There are plenty of online cooking resources, like videos and tutorials that focus on beginner-friendly recipes. Websites or apps dedicated to easy and quick meals can also be helpful.
Be Kind to Yourself: Remember that it’s okay to take things one step at a time. Celebrate your efforts, no matter how small, and don’t hesitate to stick with what works for you.
Cooking can take some practice, and it’s perfectly okay to keep things simple. With time, you’ll find techniques and recipes that you enjoy, making the whole process more rewarding.
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