It’s not a science, but an art where imagination reigns supreme. It can produce remarkable results, and most of the time they’re for the best. Acquiring this skill works like a boon for those who must satiate their sweet tooth at all costs. It can magically transfer you from the real world to Heaven, and put you in a good mood even on the worst of the days. And the best part – it is quick!
I’m talking about baking!
While most cookery shows would have you believe that baking is only for the experts, my experience with it says something entirely different.
Yes, you will need to be careful with your ingredients, your proportions, and your technique, and yes, you will have to work hard, but that shouldn’t stop a novice from trying their hand at this wonderful, creative activity.
Just imagine, opening up your oven only to have the mouthwatering aroma of your freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. They’re perfect but hot, so you realize you must wait for a while before digging into one. As soon as they cool down, you take a bite and experience what is called a ‘foodgasm’ in the culinary world. It’s something else. Bliss!
If that’s not reason enough for you to try baking, here are a few more reasons that might work –
It’s a Great Outlet
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If you’re a creative person, and looking for a way to expend some of it, then you can head straight to your kitchen and whip up some ingredients in a variety of combinations, anything that tickles your taste buds, really.
So, you stand to avail two benefits when you bake – you find an outlet for your creativity, and you create something amazing from scratch, thereby learning something new.
It Is Therapeutic
A lot of people bake to unwind. If you take it in the right spirit, it can prove to be a relaxing hobby. For me, just the thought of the end result is enough to become motivated and bake up a storm.
But for those, who don’t particularly enjoy it, know that baking can have a therapeutic effect on your senses because it makes your kitchen smell just so good.
Plus, because you’ll know what is going into your dish, you can make alterations wherever you wish, depending on your taste, lifestyle, and your need to make everything healthy.
It Turns Simple Ingredients into Magical Wonders
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Before you start putting together your flour, essence, sugar, eggs, and other ingredients into a bowl and start with the whisking, take a good look at them as that’s going to be the last time you’ll see them in that form.
These simple ingredients will soon transform into irresistible and delectable goodies, which you probably won’t be able to get enough of!
It’s Okay Even If You Make a Mess
Let’s face it, baking can be pretty messy. But then again, that’s excusable as it is because of the mess that you will eventually come up with something that will provide your taste buds with the pleasure of eating well.
When you work with raw material like loose flour, powdered sugar, salt, and spices, you’re bound to spill it on your kitchen counter, or even your floor. But the effort that goes into cleaning it up pales in comparison to the happiness derived from biting into the finished product.
The Fruits of Your Hard Work Can Be Delicious
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How many times have you found yourself heading to the nearest bakery to purchase delicious items to satisfy your cravings for something sweet or savory? On the same lines, wouldn’t it be great if you could bring the bakery home instead of going there every time you feel like tucking into your favorite croissant?
The idea is to be able to recreate your favorite baked items in the comfort of your kitchen and enjoy the delightful fruits of your labor. I’m sure it’ll bring you a sense of achievement when you’re applauded for your successful experiments with your oven.
It Brings People Together
It’s rare for someone not to like sweets. Not everyone has the heart to say no to rich and moist pastries. And resisting lip-smacking coffee cakes takes nerves of steel. So yes, you can bake your way to successful family get-togethers and parties. After all, it’s all about bringing people together over food and winning their hearts.
Food has been known to bring people together in a way few other things can. So this is a great way to put your baking skills to good use. Remember, a family that eats together stays together!
It Teaches You to Share
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There’s something about baking that makes you want to share the food with your near and dear ones.
May be that’s because everyone you know enjoys well-baked cakes and cookies. Or maybe it is because you put in hours of hard work, care, and love into that éclair you baked for the very first time. Or just the fact that you finally made your family’s favorite baklava which they heart so much!
Sharing is caring. Nothing expresses love better than sharing a part of yourself or your creation with people you care for. Baking lets you do that in the most personalized way possible, and teaches you about the joys of sharing.
Conclusion
Whether you do it by yourself, with your kids, or with a friend, you’re sure to have fun when baking. Although it does require attention to detail at every step, it seems worth the effort when you watch your creation turn into a gastronomic beauty. And that’s the joy of it!
Do you enjoy baking too? Is there something in particular that you enjoy baking? Do let me know in your comments.
