Build Confidence in Cooking

I understand how overwhelming starting something new is. I get where you're coming from. You are here because you want to learn how to make new Asian recipes, but you are nervous to start trying. I lived in Japan for a year and a half and when I came back to the States, I was SO nervous to try to recreate the dishes I had there. Luckily, I figured out that it is okay to fail and I could always try again.

Here are 4 things to help you build confidence in cooking Asian food.

1. Embrace the Unknown: 

Asian cuisine is a whole other world compared to the food that we eat in the United States. That means that when cooking Asian food, you are going to have to buy and try new ingredients. Don't let this overwhelm you. I understand how overwhelming it is to

sit in the Asian aisle at a store or go to an Asian market and be completely lost. Embrace this and make it a learning experience. Ask questions. To get started on building your arsenal of Asian ingredients, check out this article I wrote.

2. Start Simple, Go Slow:

 Remember that you're not going to learn how to make the most fancy Asian dish right off the bat. You might have to first learn how to make Japanese ketchup fried rice. Take your time and understand that you're not going to know everything right off the bat.

3. Celebrate Mistakes: 

Burnt soy sauce and overly crispy spring rolls should be considered badges of honor. Not everything is going to turn out perfectly. I can't tell you how many failed attempts I have had to either suffer through eating or just completely throw away. You're going to make mistakes, but it's okay!! Celebrate those moments and learn from them.

4. Share the Experience: 

Sharing your progress can be really fun. Even if it's a small win, like not burning your sticky rice, then you need to share that! Sharing your experience and progress can also

help you see where you've grown.

The Bottom Line

Even though starting something new can be really intimidating, I believe in you. We are on this journey together. I genuinely want to help you build confidence in cooking easy Asian food. I understand that making mistakes can be disappointing, but keep going and you can see where you grow. Let me know if there's any recipes that you're excited to try out!