As we wrap up the first month of 2023, it is important to reflect on our New Year’s resolutions and reevaluate what’s truly important to us. Whether your goal this year is to improve your sleep, boost energy, or put more variety into your diet, you can achieve your goals through the kitchen, and you don’t need to be a world-renowned chef to do so. 

Even though I have been cooking meals for the past year, I would still consider myself an amateur cook. I have only experimented with a handful of meats, and I am overly apprehensive about trying new foods and flavors in my meals. Nevertheless, being in the kitchen has opened a new world of opportunities. Taking risks and sampling new cuisines has helped me not only gain more control over the foods that I’m eating, but also improve my confidence and independence skills as well. 

I have found cooking to be a great outlet for relieving stress and having a good time with friends. From my experiences, I believe that everyone should try their hand at cooking once in their lives because you never know what will happen. That being said, here are the top five reasons why you should learn how to cook in the new year:

1. Eating homemade food is healthier.

Eating healthy is one of the top motivating factors to start cooking at home. By knowing what goes into your food, you can make healthier choices about which meals to make. And, with enough practice, you can learn to make the same meals as your favorite restaurants without all of the extra preservatives and unhealthy ingredients.

2. Cooking prepares you for the future.

In a few years, all of us will be living on our own and we won’t be able to rely on the dining hall to feed us anymore. Sooner or later, you will need to learn how to cook, unless you plan on hiring a private chef or ordering out every night. You don’t need to be amazing, but knowing how to make two or three meals is essential for taking care of yourself and your family.

3. It just tastes better.

At first, cooking your meals at home is awkward and challenging. However, with just a little bit of practice, you can make the same meals just as good or even better than your favorite restaurants. Over the summer, I’ve learned how to make alfredo chicken pasta and chicken caesar salads that are so good, I don’t even order them when I go out anymore. And, on top of that, I save a lot of money in the process.

4. Cooking is a great hobby.

Cooking intimates a lot of people because there are so many ingredients, tools, and skill sets to master that tackling everything at once seems daunting. Yet, there is something amazing about overcoming this “fear” of cooking. By experimenting with new foods and cuisines, you will gain a new appreciation for food and the creative liberty to create the meal of your dreams. 

5. Food brings people together.

Without a doubt, this is my favorite reason to cook. I love cooking for my family and friends because it gives us all a reason to sit back, relax, and enjoy each other’s company for a little bit. Additionally, cooking is also a great, practical way to show someone that you love and care about them.