The semester is ending, and whether you’re going back home or starting an internship or a new job, it can be hard to replace the routine you had with classes and campus activities. Last summer, I tried to keep my brain active and avoid only going back and forth between rotting in bed and going to work, so I experimented in the kitchen. Starting a new food hobby is great because you don’t have to go anywhere, and there are no limits to what you can learn and try. Here are a few hobby ideas to keep your mind active and motivated during your break.
Pickle Vegetables
Pickled vegetables bring a bright, tangy flavor to any dish, and only require a few ingredients and a mason jar.
About a year ago, I became obsessed with pickled onions and decided to pickle them myself, and it’s easy! For a basic base, you only need water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and red onions, and it only takes a few minutes. You can add other flavors and personalize it to your liking. Many recipes include garlic and jalapeños. You can change it up every time with different vinegars and different measurements to see what you like. My favorite way to eat them is on top of salads, and they’re great with Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine.
Onions aren’t your only option; carrots, bell peppers, okra, and beets are just some of the vegetables that can be pickled, with the exact same ingredients. .
Bake Bread
Baking can be tricky, but bread is simple. For a non-yeast recipe, You just need flour, baking powder/soda, milk, a neutral oil, salt, and sugar. This kind of recipe is a very thick batter that creates a dense bread, so a loaf tin may be necessary to get the desired classic shape. Other than that, there are no extra costs. Once you’re comfortable, try adding different flavors to your bread: cinnamon and raisin, garlic and rosemary, and many more.
If you prefer the texture of classic, airy, sandwich bread, you will need yeast, but the recipe is still just as simple. No kneading required, just mix, rise, and bake. Use this for avocado toast, grilled cheese, and your favorite dips.
Charcuterie Boards
Charcuterie boards traditionally are a curated assortment of meats, cheeses, spreads, and crackers used as appetizers for large groups of people. They’re a great elevated snack plate, but the fun and creativity comes from the plating itself. Pepperoni can be arranged into flower petals and cheese can be cut into fun shapes. The possibilities are endless
Bored with meats and cheeses? Do something else! For inspiration or a challenge, give your board a theme! If you pickle vegetables, make a pickle board. Brunch lover? A waffle board with cut up waffles and an assortment of fruit and any of your other favorite toppings. Try a boozy board with foods that have alcohol as an ingredient (rum cake, beer cheese, bourbon maple bacon, etc). You can also base your board off of cuisines around the world.
Charcuterie boards are the perfect social snack; make one for a picnic, date night, or host your own charcuterie party where everyone makes a special board.