South Asian cuisine, a vibrant and diverse culinary tradition, is a tantalising fusion of flavours, spices, and cooking techniques that takes the tastebuds on an exquisite journey
In today’s fast-paced world, where individuals are occupied with demanding jobs and academic pursuits, the art of preparing South Asian cuisine has become increasingly challenging, demanding both patience and practice.
Despite the deep love for these delectable dishes, many wonder if people still find the time to create them from scratch.
With the convenience-driven culture we live in, where culinary solutions are just a tap away, a myriad of options ranging from fully cooked meals to ready-to-eat frozen items have emerged, revolutionising the way we approach South Asian food.
Based in Bradford, Asian Standard took the opportunity to ask some individuals about their preferences on buying pre-made ingredients or making everything fresh.
When it comes to the reliance on pre-made food versus homemade cooking, opinions vary depending on individuals and their lifestyles.
Aishwarya Shine, a 20-year-old university student, acknowledged that convenience plays a significant role in her choices.
“I think it depends on whether I have time. When I’m feeling lazy or have exams, I tend to rely on pre-made food because it’s convenient, but when I have time, I enjoy cooking at home,” she says.
While students, especially those juggling part-time jobs, often resort to instant food for quick meals, the question arises:
What about individuals who stay at home?
Do they feel the need to dedicate themselves to preparing everything from scratch or do they also appreciate the luxury of instant availability?
Lea Jauris, a 27-year-old stay-at-home mother, expressed her preference for cooking food at home.
“I prefer cooking food at home since I have a sense of what is going on and what is being made, even if it is a bit time-consuming. I find it cheaper than buying from store. I also like to make and freeze items for the long run rather than restocking every time I need it,” she said.
For Lea, the advantages of homemade cooking extend beyond immediate convenience, providing a sense of satisfaction and practicality for her and her family.
It is understandable that few people might want to continue cooking at home to have that authentic taste and for not getting into the habit of relying on convenient advancements.
Jhanvi Chakarwal, 26, a student, also expressed similar interests to Aishwarya.
“Coming to the UK, life has been such a hassle that I find myself buying more frozen items than making [food] at home. But I do try to cook home every now and then, since I’m alone, I try to meal-prep and make bulk for coming days. I even try to make pastes such as ginger garlic paste and mint chutneys at home whenever I get time,” she said.
In conclusion, the preference for pre-made food or homemade cooking varies among individuals, depending on factors such as time constraints, personal convenience, and lifestyle choices.
Ultimately, whether one chooses to embrace the instant availability of pre-made food or to indulge in the satisfaction of preparing meals from scratch, the evolving culinary landscape caters to diverse preferences, allowing individuals to navigate their unique culinary journeys with ease and convenience.
