When I was twelve, making chocolate chip cookies was a big deal. My mother was not big on the culinary arts. As an immigrant, she had bigger fish to fry than baking cookies with her kids. I kind of understood her struggle at that young age. I saw how much she had to do, definitely more than other moms I knew. Still longed to soften butter and mix dry and wet ingredients.
Libby, a close friend of my mother’s, taught me to bake. I was grateful for her time and patience. It eventually led me to cooking. The love and daily practice has carried on for decades and now includes my daughters. I think I am most grateful for how seamlessly cooking and baking are a part of our daily lives. It’s just something we do because we eat three times a day. (technically four)
However, it never ceases to amaze me when, for example, my twelve year old decides to make churros. I mean, chocolate chip cookies for my big win and churros for hers?!
I can’t say it happened out of the blue. She follows all sorts of culinary people on Tik Tok. I’ve noticed she seems to follow people I have never mentioned or know. She’s finding her own gurus. I like it! Joshua Weissman is currently her favorite and I get why. He’s funny, full of energy and doesn’t take himself so seriously like many chefs or food people do. And yet, his recipes are not elementary. It’s the perfect combination for an ambitious 12-year old…don’t talk down to me but do tell me so I understand.
I loved how tonight unfolded. I also must give thanks to Gasolina Cafe for their amazing churros and afternoon inspiration! Our lives are full of good food at every turn!
