It's no secret that I love food and everything related to it. I mean, who in their right mind gets excited about a new cookbook? Once home, I head to a comfy and quiet spot, crack open my latest purchase, and literally read it like a novel. I make notes throughout the pages and begin my grocery list of the recipes I want to try first. I am happy and content for the time being.
After returning from the grocery store I am armed and ready to get started on the newest recipes. For me, each cookbook is like a present with more layers of gifts inside. Each time I try a new recipe I am eager to see how the "present" will unfold. Even for the most experienced cooks and bakers, each new recipe brings about trial and error. There are so many factors that play into how the recipe may, or may not, turn out. That's the joy of being in the kitchen for me. As much as I may enjoy this, the realization that there are many people who do not feel the same hit me. Whether it be an adult who wants to be healthy, but cannot stand the kitchen, or a child just learning the basics of how to prepare themselves a snack, I knew that there needed to be something for them to turn to.
Although I have always had my kiddos in the kitchen at an early age to "help", they did not know how to create their own masterpieces of health. I wanted them to have something more than just going to the cupboard for a snack. Yes, grabbing a piece of fruit or veggie from the fridge is easy and healthy enough, but let's face it, who wants that same thing everyday? Throughout the years I have kept track of my own creations and so I started with that notebook to see which recipes they could do on their own or with little supervision. What I found was they were truly eager to be in charge in the kitchen and to see, and taste, the end result. Not only were my children learning how to fend for themselves in a healthy way, but they were also learning kitchen safety, math concepts and the rewarding feeling of accomplishment.
Besides having quick and easy recipes, another component of the book that I wanted to incorporate was a resource for those with dietary restrictions. I have become extremely adept at making the necessary substitutions to accommodate a plant based, gluten free lifestyle for my family. Making substitutions really has become second nature for me, however, my oldest would get frustrated because she would want to try a recipe but would be overwhelmed as to all the adjustments she needed to make. Knowing how she felt, I knew that there must be other people feeling the same way. So often I hear people say they want to eat healthier, but that it is just too hard. This only encouraged me to keep creating my book. I understand that not everyone may agree with my views when it comes to what foods to eat, but I also understand that even those who disagree want accessible healthy options when they feel the need.
My journey over the past two years of creating an allergy friendly cookbook has only reaffirmed my belief that healthy does not have to be difficult, frustrating or boring. I do still try elaborate recipes when I am in the mood, but I find myself turning to my quick and easy recipes more. With this book being my first attempt at publishing, I must say that I am quite pleased with the end product, and the fact that now my children can get creative in the kitchen on their own, without feeling frustrated.
Being an amateur, I have learned many things regarding publishing my own book and know that I definitely want to start on the next one in the near future. So first things first, for my birthday I will be requesting a professional camera ;)
I'm The Chef Of This Kitchen, An Allergy Friendly Cookbook For Kids and Adults will be available in a few days through Amazon.com, Amazon Europe and CreateSpace eStore.
Bon Appetit!
