1. I cook mainly for convenience, but also because I enjoy it. Due to where I live and the kinds of products I buy, I wouldn't say I'm saving much if any money cooking at home as opposed to eating out. Quality and organic/local groceries are expensive in SF, and there are thousands of delicious and affordable restaurants and delivery services.
2. I rarely if ever plan ahead. Maybe if I have guests coming over for dinner I'll plan a day in advance. I typically have a rotation of staple dishes which I go through, but it's very flexible, and I come up with random new things when inspiration or boredom strikes.
3. All sorts of things, but typically Italian, French, Tex/Cal-Mex, some Thai/Chinese style and the odd curry.
4. Nothing strict, but I'm very low carb, low sugar, high protein and fat with tons of veggies.
5. I use cooking as an escape, and thus don't care too much about my productivity. That said, I can get stressed if things look like they aren't going to turn out well, or when I feel like I'm scrambling to maintain my timing. One tip: it typically pays off to do most or all of your prep work before you start cooking. A little prep+cook multitasking is manageable but I find cooking a lot more fun when I have everything prepped and ready and can focus all of my attention on the composition.
2. I rarely if ever plan ahead. Maybe if I have guests coming over for dinner I'll plan a day in advance. I typically have a rotation of staple dishes which I go through, but it's very flexible, and I come up with random new things when inspiration or boredom strikes.
3. All sorts of things, but typically Italian, French, Tex/Cal-Mex, some Thai/Chinese style and the odd curry.
4. Nothing strict, but I'm very low carb, low sugar, high protein and fat with tons of veggies.
5. I use cooking as an escape, and thus don't care too much about my productivity. That said, I can get stressed if things look like they aren't going to turn out well, or when I feel like I'm scrambling to maintain my timing. One tip: it typically pays off to do most or all of your prep work before you start cooking. A little prep+cook multitasking is manageable but I find cooking a lot more fun when I have everything prepped and ready and can focus all of my attention on the composition.