for the joy of food

It didn't take me long to come up with the tag line for this page. It came to me quickly and I instantly knew it was perfect. That is because, to me, food is the embodiment of joy. It is a tool to communicate love, it brings people together. It creates joy through the memories and moments it enables. Food is crucial to the human experience, not because it fuels our bodies, but because it ignites something in us. It inspires us. Cooking is an art, it is a creative outlet, and appreciating a delicious meal, not because it filled us up but because of how it made us feel is a wonderful part of being human.

It is so important to me that delicious, good food is accessible and that the joy of food is not restricted by money or opportunity. Going out and trying food at restaurants is special and can be a source of inspiration, however, eating a home cooked meal around a table of friends and family, laughing as loudly as you want and not worrying if you drop a fork or spill some wine on the table is where the magic of a good meal really comes to life.

My aim is to stop cooking from ever feeling like a chore or a burden. Cooking should never be a stressful activity, it should be a relaxing or exciting one. The kitchen should feel as freeing as an art studio and cooking should feel like an opportunity to explore, try new things and create something special. Your food should be just that, yours.

My recipes are a guideline not a mandate and I strongly encourage you to make them your own. Use them to inspire you, not restrict you. Exploring in the kitchen is not just for chefs or seasoned cooks. Anyone can adapt a recipe, try new combinations or find a way to squeeze in that bag of spinach that is about to go off. I want to create a space where cooking is fun and part of the joy that food brings, not an unwanted complication.

Whether you struggle to find this joy or are an even bigger foodie than I am, welcome! I hope that everyone can take something away from Eating with Lottie. Whatever skill level you are, from a cooking connoisseur to a first timer, I am so honoured to be a part of your journey to finding the joy of food.