What’s Your Favorite Thing to Cook?
People ask me all the time, “What’s your favorite thing to cook?” And while I’ve got a few go-to dishes I can whip up with my eyes closed, the honest answer might surprise you.
My favorite thing to cook? Something I’ve never made before.
There’s something so fun about diving into a brand-new recipe. The curiosity, the challenge, the experimentation—it’s a chance to learn, to taste something unexpected, and to expand what I can offer both at home and to my clients. Whether it’s a dish from another culture, a trending technique, or a twist on a classic, trying something new keeps the kitchen exciting.
Of course, there are classics I always come back to.
A perfectly pan-seared scallop over creamy risotto, finished with an Meyer lemon olive oil cake. A cast iron filet with herb butter and roasted veg. A hearty braise on a cold day or fresh pasta in the summer sun. These dishes are like old friends—reliable, satisfying, and full of comfort.
But it’s those new, uncharted recipes—the ones that require a little extra attention, a little risk, and a lot of heart—that remind me why I love what I do.
Simple Doesn’t Mean Boring
Some of the most memorable meals aren’t the most complicated—they’re the most soulful. A roasted chicken. A pot of soup shared with loved ones. Pasta tossed with just a handful of seasonal ingredients. When you cook with love and intention, even the simplest dishes feel like something special.
Cooking with the Seasons—and Your Mood
What I feel like cooking often shifts with the seasons. In the summer, it’s all about grilling and citrus. Fall is for root veggies and slow braises. Winter brings soups, stews, and fresh-baked bread. And spring? Bring on the greens and lemon zest.
Letting your mood and the moment influence what’s on the menu is part of the magic. It keeps your cooking personal, grounded, and alive.
So next time someone asks what your favorite thing to cook is, I encourage you to try something new. Explore a different flavor, revisit a childhood favorite, or just get a little creative. That’s where the real joy in cooking lives.
Cook with curiosity, serve with love, and always enjoy life.
— Chef Ken Durbin
Founder, The At Home Chef