Is It Worth Cooking It Yourself?

When it comes to food, the age-old question often surfaces: is it better to buy it or make it yourself? Some things are indeed cheaper when you make them from scratch, and others just taste better. However, not everything is worth the additional effort. Let's explore the factors that influence this decision and why sometimes, buying it from the store is just the right choice.

When Making From Scratch Is Worth It

For many, there's a sense of satisfaction and tranquility in the process of scratch cooking. Measuring, mixing, and preparing ingredients can be incredibly Zen, and there's a bragging right that comes with cooking from scratch. For example, yogurt made from whole milk has fewer additives than store-bought yogurts, making it a healthier choice.

Many of us are taught to cook and preserve foods from a very young age. Growing up, Mike, along with his parents and grandparents, was taught to can and preserve foods. While he rarely buys pre-made food products, there is one thing he occasionally purchases from the grocery store - sliced garlic bologna. Despite knowing how to make it from scratch, his time is limited, and the process can be lengthy. Homemade sausages, hot dogs, breads, butter, various cheeses, and even mustards and mayonnaise are all made from scratch in his kitchen. This demonstrates the balance between time constraints and the satisfaction of homemade goods.

When Buying Is a Better Option

While making certain items from scratch is beneficial, there are numerous items where buying from the store is simply more efficient or practical. Some things are just too large to make at home, such as a large duck. A seven-pound duck did not serve two people and resulted in a lot of fat. Leaving such tasks to high-end restaurants is the better choice.

There are also food items that require specific equipment or handling that is hazardous or impossible to replicate at home. Cooling food properly is a critical step that can be challenging at home. Improper cooling can alter the food's quality and even make your family sick. Likewise, certain items like roasted or smoked foods, pressure-cooked meals, and certain types of ham, are beyond the scope of home cooking. For instance, KFC's secret is pressure cooking and 11 kinds of salt. Pressure cooking and specialized equipment like propane blow torches are necessary for these dishes, making them impractical to make at home.

The same applies to convenience items like taco night. While the homemade versions can be more enjoyable, a ready-to-eat meal like tacos allows everyone to have their preferences and share the experience more easily. Homemade meals are time-consuming, especially when dealing with large groups or specific dietary needs.

Conclusion

The decision to make something from scratch or buy it from the store depends on various factors such as time, equipment, and personal taste. While making everything from scratch can be rewarding, it's not always the most practical or efficient choice. Understanding your available resources and the context of the meal can help you make the best decision. Whether you opt for homemade or store-bought, the most important thing is that you enjoy the food and the experience of eating it.