I’m Not a Great Cook, But These Are the Two Dishes I’ll Always Be Proud Of*

I've never been the person who can look around the kitchen, grab whatever is available, and somehow turn it into an amazing dinner. My cooking skills are pretty basic, and I've made peace with that. But there are two things I can make confidently: roasted tomato chutney and suji idli. I've been making them since I was young, and after all these years, I've changed little things here and there until the recipes started feeling like my own. That's probably why I enjoy making them so much. When I've had a long day, there's something comforting about going into the kitchen and making something I already know by heart. I know how I want the tomatoes roasted, how I like the chutney seasoned, and what consistency I want the idli batter to have. There's no pressure to get creative or impress anyone. I can just cook. And the funny thing is, I know people who can make dozens of dishes without looking at a recipe. I still come back to these same two over and over again. Maybe that's one of the best things about cooking. You don't have to know how to make everything. Having a few dishes that you can make really well, that your family enjoys, and that you're proud to put on the table is something worth celebrating.