# Crafting English Cuisine: A Journey of Culinary Discovery
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Chapter 1: The Culinary Adventure Begins
In the past, I ran a language school aimed at immersing students in English culture, including its culinary delights. However, I quickly learned that not everyone feels an intrinsic motivation to learn. This article reflects on my journey of trying to recreate English dishes for my language students, which ultimately led me to discover new recipes that I still share with my family and friends today.
Reflecting on my initial trip to the UK, I recall the learning experience began as soon as I boarded the plane. I felt a bit like Mr. Bean when I mistakenly drank milk straight from the container instead of adding it to my tea, much to the bemusement of the English woman seated next to me. Upon arrival, I was introduced to dishes like egg mayo sandwiches and Chicken Tikka Masala, which opened the door to a culinary world that included pasties, fish and chips, Chicken Kievs, trifles, and countless cups of tea.
Chapter 1.1: Flavorful Memories
Food, much like music, can evoke a range of memories. While some of my food experiences link to a challenging relationship from my past—something I’ll save for another time—I cherish the positive memories associated with my first encounters with English cuisine. As Dr. Alessandra Pino highlighted during our conversation about her upcoming book, A Gothic Cookbook, food can be a powerful reminder of significant people and experiences in our lives.
During my language studies in the UK, trying various dishes helped reinforce my vocabulary and cultural knowledge. I thought that by introducing my students to English cuisine, they could similarly enhance their learning in a flavorful manner. I aimed to provide an immersive experience that extended beyond traditional methods of teaching, integrating taste with language learning.
As part of this initiative, we created an inviting corner shop at the school entrance, allowing visitors to experience a slice of English culture. I envisioned this space as an opportunity for both students and locals to enjoy classic English fare and connect with the language more deeply.
Chapter 1.2: The Birth of a Culinary Dream
With plans to extend this unique experience to our local community, we opened our café to anyone curious about English recipes. Patrons could savor a cheese and onion pasty while catching up on the BBC news or diving into English literature—all while sipping tea and enjoying a cozy atmosphere.
We managed to source many packaged items from suppliers, yet some homemade delicacies, like cakes and pork pies, often arrived past their expiration. This challenge sparked a pivotal thought in my mind:
If you can’t buy it, make it yourself.
Thus began my culinary journey. Thanks to resources like BBC Good Food, I discovered accessible recipes that even novice cooks could master. I started with simple cupcakes and cookies, gradually advancing to cheesecakes, brownies, and a variety of savory pies and sandwiches.
Chapter 2: Insights and Revelations
Despite my culinary efforts, our business faced challenges that didn’t lead to an influx of students or clients. The pandemic underscored the shifting landscape of our market, revealing that our concept may have thrived better in a bustling city than in our quaint village, where initial excitement often wanes quickly.
Nevertheless, we persevered for a decade, fueled by hard work and passion. Today, I can whip up English dishes that bring comfort to my husband, introduce my children to their culinary heritage, and allow my family to explore new flavors without the need for extensive travel or financial strain.
Though nothing quite compares to the offerings at Greggs or Bettys Café Tea Room, stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing a new culinary adventure has enriched my customers' experiences and provided additional income for my business.
This journey serves as a reminder of that initial plane ride to England, where not only the people but also the food would shape my future.
Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure!
© Alicia Domínguez
In addition to sharing recipes, I delve into the Gothic genre frequently. Check out my online magazine, You Are Gothic But You Don’t Know It, to explore your dark side through literature, film, and more.
The first video, Why buy it when you can make it yourself?, emphasizes the joys of DIY cooking, encouraging viewers to explore their culinary creativity.
The second video, If you're doing a No Buy, watch this video (tips for success!), provides practical advice for those looking to minimize spending while still enjoying the culinary arts.