I love to watch TV chefs. Paula Dean is my favorite. I sit with my cup of tea and my drool rag and watch her concoct some of the most delicious dishes I have ever seen, and I imagine what it would be like to be a TV chef.
One of the things I like best about this fantasy is knowing that I wouldn’t have to clean up any of the mess. I mean, seriously, that would rock.
So I’m thinking; if you don’t feel like cooking one night but you still have to, then pretend like you are a TV chef. Totally get into the role. Completely but temporarily lose your grip on reality. I’ve done this, and it helps.
If this makes you glad that I don’t have your phone number and address, that’s okay. I’ve always had a rich imagination, I’ve never stopped liking to play make-believe, and I learned to stop apologizing for that. I’m fine. Really.
Anyway, pretend like there’s a camera on you and an audience in front of you, and you’re making one of your famous dishes. (Even if it’s just hamburger helper with a little extra cheese added, that’s okay, we’re playing make believe…it’s okay to lie!)
Imagine, as you go through all the steps of making your prize-winning dish, that you are hearing all the “oohs” and “aahs” from the audience. Smile to them periodically to show your appreciation for their appreciation. If it helps, put some of your kids’ stuffed animals on chairs facing you while you cook.
How does this help? I’m glad you asked. It helps because if you get into your role as TV chef enough, really feel the role, dinner will be done before you know it and you can get out of the kitchen. If you want to make it even better, bribe someone to clean up after you so you really can pretend that you’re a cooking diva.
Worthy of a TV Chef but Super Easy Mexican Rice Casserole
3 Cups of cooked rice
1 7-oz can of chopped fire-roasted green chilies
1 lb shredded Monterey jack cheese
½ lb shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 oz tub sour cream
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the rice, chiles, sour cream and Monterey jack cheese. Transfer mixture to a large baking dish, and top with the shredded cheddar. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until top is just beginning to get a nice golden brown. Let sit for about 10 or 15 minutes before serving.
This goes well with chips and salsa or guacamole.
Can you hear the applause?
