I've come to realise that cooking is an art form, much like writing, painting, and poetry. Just as words are carefully crafted to form sentences, and sentences are woven together to create a beautiful narrative, cooking involves combining different ingredients to produce a culinary masterpiece.
A painter meticulously mixes colors to create a stunning visual effect, while a poet skillfully rhymes and combines vowel with consonant sounds to craft thought-provoking verses. Similarly, a cook or chef expertly blends various ingredients to create a dish that delights the senses.
You see, the beauty of cooking lies in its ability to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. As individuals, we have unique tastes and preferences, shaped by our experiences, traditions, and environments. Sharing these differences with one another has given rise to a rich cultural tapestry, celebrating the diversity that makes us human.
While I respect people's choices, especially when it comes to food, there are certain combinations that leave me perplexed. Take, for instance, the pairing of noodles and bread. I struggle to comprehend why someone would deliberately choose to consume two carbohydrate-rich foods together, especially when there are so many other options available.
As a child, I recall trying the noodles and bread combination, a curiosity that was influenced by my friends who seemed to enjoy it. However, I found the experience to be utterly unpalatable, akin to torture. The texture and taste of noodles and bread together were, in my opinion, a culinary abomination.
Not to be overly stringent but the only exception to this rule is when noodles are stir-fried with an assortment of colorful vegetables, accompanied by a fluffy omelette and a rich, chocolatey beverage. This, to me, is a match made in heaven. Anything less, and I'm afraid I'll have to politely decline because I take my nutrients and flavours quiet seriously
Let us go over to another food combination that raises eyebrows and this is the pairing of okra soup and rice. I'm also baffled by those who choose to eat ogbono soup, with its characteristic slimy texture, alongside rice. A quick question to people who enjoys these weird combs; Is everything okay in the culinary world? Have we forgotten the joys of a well-cooked stew, the spicy kick of pepper soup, or the savory flavors of a rich meat stock or gravy? I mean what is really going on with the taste bud of these people?
Well, I recall witnessing someone consume ogbono soup and rice, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy. How, I wondered, could such a combination be palatable? The thought of the slimy texture and bland flavors was, to me, utterly unappetizing. And then, when I asked him if the meal was nice, with his mouth full, he nodded and hummed "hm-hm." Right there and then, I became horrified because consuming such meal, ought to be classified as a crime against humanity.