1) If I didn't cook, I'd be cranky and have hungry kids. There aren't many restaurants near home that are decent, and none that are affordable for 5 with any regularity. We also want the kids to know how to fend for themselves if they're left alone in a well stocked kitchen. Also, there's nothing quite like having something new come together.
2) Some planning, lots of ingredients in house so we can usually make something appealing in < 1 hour.
3) Pretty much anything shy of molecular or art food. I'm enjoying slow smoking meats, baking bread, and the odd indian or thai dish. Gathering stuff in the garden is also a good inspiration.
4) Ingredients need to be recognizable as food. With a side of accommodating gluten free, one kid not liking steak or any meat tougher than ground beef or salmon, one kid not liking anything until everyone else is finished, and one kid devouring anything that's green.
5) Move to a place where it's far easier to cook than find a restaurant.
2) Some planning, lots of ingredients in house so we can usually make something appealing in < 1 hour.
3) Pretty much anything shy of molecular or art food. I'm enjoying slow smoking meats, baking bread, and the odd indian or thai dish. Gathering stuff in the garden is also a good inspiration.
4) Ingredients need to be recognizable as food. With a side of accommodating gluten free, one kid not liking steak or any meat tougher than ground beef or salmon, one kid not liking anything until everyone else is finished, and one kid devouring anything that's green.
5) Move to a place where it's far easier to cook than find a restaurant.