Food Is Not Complicated

Meryl Streep’s new movie, It’s Complicated is hilarious. There are some scenes you will laugh so hard you may wet your pants. Food was not an integral part of the plot, but it definitely added to the pleasure of the movie. Jane, Meryl Streep’s character, is a great cook and her three adult children, her ex-husband, her future son in law, and her new love interest are all appreciative recipients of her talent in the kitchen.

As America’s Cooking Cheerleader, I admit to being a bit obsessed when it comes to food and family meal times. I believe that eating dinner together as a family, with a meal that was prepared at home, is extremely important to the overall health, well being, and enjoyment of your family. Because of this bias, I am sure I gave food a lot more importance for this movie than what the director had intended.

Food symbolized “I am taking care of you”. When referring to his new wife and her lack of cooking skills, Jane’s ex-husband states very clearly that “no one takes care of me like you used to.” Food symbolized love when Jane cooked up a storm for her son’s homecoming from college. Her refrigerator was over stuffed with good things to eat for her kids to enjoy.

Food symbolized being sexy when Jane and her love interest make chocolate croissants together, and when she makes a special meal for a romantic evening. Food meant fun when she eats a piece of chocolate cake when she is feeling especially happy.

Is food the only way to show love, or care, or sex, or fun? Absolutely not! However, food is a language everyone understands, a subject people love to talk about, and an activity everyone participates in. You do not have to be a gourmet cook to have a happy home life, but taking the time to cook to care for your family, to create a romantic mood, or to create some fun will always serve you well.

Do you think cooking is a way to show your family you care about them?

Cooking is easier than you think and you are worth the time and effort it takes.

Simple cooking idea: To peel garlic, crush the clove with the flat side of your knife. The peel will come off easily.

Copyright ©2009 by Gigi Centaro. All Rights Reserved.