By David Onyeji
AS A teenager growing up in Lagos, I never thought I’d find myself in the kitchen, apron tied around my waist, and a pot of jollof rice on the stove.
But, that’s exactly what happened when I decided to take the plunge and cook my first meal.
It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I was determined to make something delicious.
After watching my mom cook jollof rice for years, I figured it was time to learn. I searched for a simple recipe online and got started.
As I chopped the onions and tomatoes, I felt a sense of excitement mixed with a pinch of nervousness. What if I messed it up?
What if it didn’t turn out “sweet” like Mummy’s cooking?
But, I pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the task at hand.
With each step, my confidence grew. I sautéed the onions with a flourish, added the rice with precision, and seasoned with love.
The aroma wafting from the kitchen was incredible, and my stomach growled in anticipation.
Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I took my first bite, and the flavors danced on my tongue. It was a culinary achievement.
I had done it – I had cooked a pot of jollof rice that was not only edible but actually delicious.
That first cooking experience taught me valuable lessons:
- Independence: Cooking allows me to take care of myself and rely less on “mama’s cooking”.
- Creativity: Experimenting with recipes and ingredients allows for innovation and self-expression.
- Patience: Cooking requires attention to detail and waiting for the right moments to act.
- Pride: Creating something nourishing and tasty gives me a sense of accomplishment.
If you’re a fellow Nigerian teen hesitant to enter the kitchen, I urge you to give cooking a try.
Start with jollof rice, be patient, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Who knows, you might just discover a new passion.
Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe – it’s about exploring flavours, experimenting with creativity, and nourishing both body and soul.
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to add a dash of love to your meals.
At JKNewsMedia, our dedication to delivering reliable news and insightful information to our cherished readers remains unwavering. Every day, we strive to provide you with top-notch content that informs and enlightens. By donating to JKNewsMedia, you directly contribute to our mission of delivering quality journalism that empowers and informs. Your support fuels our commitment to bringing you the latest updates and in-depth analysis. Let's continue to uphold the highest standards of journalism and serve our community with integrity and dedication. Thank you for being a part of the JKNewsMedia family and for your ongoing support.
