Ever since the new year started, I’ve sort of been on a lucky cooking streak.  New recipe attempts and even old favourites were turning out yummy.  However, as of late, I have entered into a bit of a slump.  Friday, my sticky rice came out bland, and well, not really sticky.  Yesterday, I attempted a mini cheesecake recipe which yielded some tragic little hockey pucks.  They looked as deflated as I felt.  Today, my homemade brownies ended up a blobby coagulated mess that went straight into the trash. 

Just as I was feeling down in the dumps and considered living off take-out and cut fruit for the remainder of the week, I came across an article on The Kitchn, entitled ‘My Time of Endless Failures.’  The article beautifully captures that feeling of how it’s no fun to suck at something, but with cooking, it’s okay to dust yourself off and keep on going.  At the end of the day you’ve got to keep eating and no failed recipe attempt goes without learning something new.  

D is the one who often reminds me that I shouldn’t dwell on the failed outcome, and instead, should focus on the fearlessness it took to try something new.  It’s a great reminder because I admit that sometimes I’m just too hard on myself, and you probably are too.  Instead of getting discouraged, I will try to remember to shake it off and high five myself for simply giving it a go.

After the botched brownie attempt, I was going through my archives and I found this little recipe that has always served me well.  It’s a classic/ foolproof/everyone loves it/make it with your eyes closed/no recipe needed recipe.  Whenever I’ve needed a steady side to accompany a new dish or even an old favourite, these tasty taters have always ended up crispy and golden brown outside and deliciously soft on the inside. 

These potatoes are as perfect for breakfast as they are for lunch or dinner, and are a great vehicle for your favourite sauces, herbs, and spices. Every time I make them, I’m reminded that yes, new recipes are great, but sometimes, you can’t forget the old favourites.  So as I dust myself off, literally, I’m still covered in cocoa powder, I will keep on trying new ideas and sharing them with you.  And high-five to you, for every new recipe adventure you go on.