Culinary Improv

Currently the self-selected focus of Reuben's life seems to be food. I think I made that clear in last night's post. In an attempt to utilize his interests for his educational benefit both Aaron and I have started teaching him how to cook.

He's pretty good at scrambled eggs. He can crack them by himself, stir, and add salt and pepper. And I've taught him how to scoop out flour and kneed bread. He chops celery. He knows to wait til he sees bubbles before adding noodles to the pot and all the steps for making crepes.

The kid knows his way around the kitchen. Which is why I feel pretty confidant in telling him a simple direction (like stir or chop this or add butter) and leaving him to do it while I check the recipe or help Miriam.

The last day or so Reuben has started going the extra mile. He accomplishes the assigned task then thinks,

I know what would make this cookie butter even tastier - a toy hamster and Miriam's blue chew ring.

And what would make these eggs taste good? How about some chopped celery and rocks with red paint on them. Yum. yum.

The biggest challenge with his additions is his conviction that the food really is better with them and he WANTS to eat it that way. Talking him out of the rock celery eggs took some serious negotiations.

Creativity aside, Reuben gets the job done when it comes to food. We made some mighty fine spice cookies without any surprises. Well, no surprises that I know of.