Family Dinners: A Journey from Restaurant to Home Cooking
As a seasoned chef with over 25 years in the restaurant industry, cooking for a family of teenagers has its own unique set of challenges and joys. Here, I share a week's worth of dinners to give you a glimpse into our daily menu.
Monday: Home-made Chicken Strips and Cheesy Fries
Begin the week with a homemade twist on classic comfort food. The chicken strips are lightly battered and fried to a golden crunch, while the fries are handmade with a sprinkle of cheese and herbs. This meal is a win-win, satisfying both my kids and cutting down on overly processed foods.
Tuesday: Taco Night
Nothing says family fun like taco-making. Warm tortillas filled with seasoned beef or ground turkey, topped with lettuce, cheese, and sour cream. It's simple but incredibly delicious, and it always brings a lot of laughter and engagement at the table.
Wednesday: Classic Beef Steak and Gravy with Mashed Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
A hearty Wednesday dinner can't be beat. Grilled steak topped with creamy, savory gravy, slowly mashed potatoes, and sautéed Brussels sprouts with a light drizzle of olive oil. It's comforting and indulgent, and the flavors speak for themselves.
Thursday: Cabbage Hot Pot
A twist on a traditional hot pot recipe, this one is vegetarian but no less flavorful. Shredded cabbage stewed with browned ground beef, onions, and bell peppers, then simmered with tomato soup and water. It's hearty and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening.
Friday: Domino's Pizza for a Special Touch
Every now and then, a dose of convenience is welcome. A delivery from Domino's brings a night of pesto margherita pizza, a perfect mix of simplicity and indulgence. It's a treat, but it's also practical on a busy day.
Saturday: White Chili and Cornbread
On Saturday, we opt for a lighter meal with a homemade white chili loaded with smoked turkey, black beans, and onions. Topped with a warm, buttery cornbread, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect ending to a week with something easy to prepare but still home-cooked and full of flavor.
Sunday: Family Cooking Day
By Sunday, it's time for a special family cooking day. This day is a bit unique since we usually have soup once a week. This weekend, we enjoyed a homemade baked chicken with steamed broccoli and a rich homemade meatloaf. The preparation process feels like a cherished ritual.
These meals are more than just food; they're about creating memories and bringing the family together. From the excitement of taco night to the cozy vibes of Sunday dinner, each meal is a piece of our daily life. I love cooking for my family and won't change that for the world.
Personal Cooking Stories
My love for cooking began in my childhood when I started helping in the kitchen at a young age. Now, as a seasoned cook, I know that quick meals are the best for a busy schedule, but there's also a joy in taking the time for a more elaborate meal. My favorite dishes are baked chicken, steamed broccoli, pasta with chicken and mushrooms, and homemade meatloaf. Seafood, particularly steak, shrimp, steamed crabs, and crab cakes, hold a special place in my heart.
For special occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas, homemade mashed potatoes are a must. I remember the first time I made them without the help of a mixer, using a hand masher and blender. The fresh scent of boiling potatoes and the burst of flavor in the blender made it a memorable experience.
My meal journey from professional chef to family cook is a blend of convenience and culinary delight. Whether it's a big salad to make fried chicken or a simple dish to bring everyone together, every meal is a labor of love.
Conclusion
To all my readers, here's a simple rule: no chicken unless there's a large plate of salad for dinner! And always have homemade favorites like rice pasta with sausage and meatballs or pancakes with organic bacon on hand. Enjoy the process of cooking, cherish the moments with your family, and savor every bite. Merry Christmas, and happy culinary adventures!