Cooking for me has always been an emotional exercise, seeing the satisfaction and happiness on the faces around the table always gives me a tremendous high. However, some time ago I had an altercation with my children, the disagreement was on food. They said they were craving lasagna and would like to order in! I offered to cook it for them using my exclusive recipe, which they flatly refused. They relished it as kids, I did not see why they could not eat it now. Needless to say, I was hurt and upset. The TAKEAWAY won over mom’s regular cooking! I choose my battles carefully, I chose to let this one go without a fight. I knew it was a matter of time before I won them over.

Having adolescent boys who are always rummaging through the pantry looking for something to fill their stomach, has made me,I unabashedly admit a competent and creative cook. Not one to settle for a regular spread, meal after meal I take additional efforts to serve nutritious and nourishing meals at the same time catering to their demand of something “different” and something “fancy”. I knew the calling in would soon change from often to occasionally. I was confident as I had the passion and a kitchen with the tools equipped to cater to their tastes.

I realize that our busy lifestyles make cooking for the family a task that tops the list of unimportant and unproductive chores. Media has a huge role to play too. The excessive and intensive adverts promising the “best foods just like grandma’s” makes it ever so tempting to just call in. The piping hot lasagna is just a phone call away! Sadly, that phone call cannot replicate the magic of the aroma that draws out the family to the dining table to enjoy a tasty and wholesome meal together. So much is said and written on dysfunctional families, lack of communication between parents and children, amongst siblings! I have a rather simple solution. A home cooked meal enjoyed and shared in the company of one another is enough to remove the creases that may be.

I too am a working mother, but I take my role as the ‘chef de cuisine’ very seriously. For me, the secret of having the meals hot and ready for all lies solely in keeping myself organized. Whether it is the grocery shopping or having the right tools. One of my loyal helpers has been the CHEFS BASICS SELECT 18-PIECE BBQ SET. Tools made from professional grade stainless steel, they cover most requirements for barbecue recipes and makes grilling the best experience ever.