In America, we live in a day and age of wanting things ten minutes ago. We want things fast, easy, and accessible. More often than not, we don’t have time to relax during our busy lives, let alone make a homemade meal. So we opt for easier options, which make Chinese and pizza delivery services jump for joy. It’s no wonder that America has been associated with fast food (McDonalds Burger King, Chick-Fil-A, and Taco Bell), Hot Pockets, and Pop-Tarts!

But why? Because of the decline of home-cooked meals. According to a report from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the average American spends the least amount of time cooking per day…at a mere 30 minutes! Fewer people in this country spend time preparing and cooking meals each day than any other developed nation.

Unfortunately, cooking has become optional. Many young adults (including those in my generation) who are in their 20's or 30's have never really learned how to cook, or don’t feel the need to try because of the myriad of choices at their disposal, such as fast food, takeout or microwavable dishes.

Here’s another fun fact: According to the Washington Post, in 2015 less than 60% of suppers served at home were actually cooked at home. Healthy Choice, Stouffers, Lean Cuisine - is that you dancing and cheering?

Not getting my point across yet? Here’s another fact: In 1991, the National Pork Producers Council in Des Moines gave a cooking test to a nationally representative sample of 735 adults. The results? Almost ¾ of them flunked.

For example, “50% didn’t know how to thicken gravy, 75% didn’t know that broccoli should be cooked uncovered to maintain its color, and 55% knew there are three teaspoons in a tablespoon”. (http://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/15/garden/new-lost-generation-the-cooking-illiterate.html?pagewanted=all)

Ask yourself: Did you know these facts before you read them here? And this was in 1991, mind you. Over 20 years have passed since that test. Try and imagine what those numbers would be now in 2016!

You have probably had family and/or loved ones cook you a delicious dish that you are craving right now. Consequently, certain foods are associated with particular memories. The smell of a specific type of cookie, or the tradition of always eating a certain treat every year - these are all memories that revolve around food.

Yet, my generation...our generation, has forgotten the benefits that come from learning how to cook. Today, it is all too easy to pick up ready-made food, pre-chopped stir-fry, or simply order in. Of course, everyone indulges in these types of foods; I’m 100% guilty of wanting Boston Market, Panera, Akira, Crust, etc. But the joy that comes from creating food for yourself and for others is an entirely different game.

So what’s the big deal? So far all I’ve done is rant, rave and give some statistics. What’s the fuss about learning how to cook? Well, the benefits are endless.

• Knowing how to cook is freeing. You no longer need to either eat out constantly, order delivery, or buy frozen meals.

• It also helps financially. Fresh, home-cooked food is far less expensive than the ones you buy pre-made

• You also have control over your nutrition and know exactly what is in every single bite you take. High cholesterol? Not for me. Lots of fats? No thank you. Spices? The more the merrier. Fresh greens? Keep em’ coming!

• Additionally, you feel good, as you would with anything that you prepare with your own hands.

• You can also share what you’ve made with others. You'll find that you've become the favorite friend to invite over for Friday nights or Sunday brunches.

• Finally, you appreciate the food you have on the table more than you would if you just picked up something that’s prepackaged. You understand what goes into preparing a dish that might have to be slow cooked for 8 hours, or left in the fridge overnight. You will have a better understanding of the fact that food doesn’t just magically appear in front of your face any time you’re hungry

Some of the best memories I have are associated with food. The smells, the preparation, the group bonding, or romantic nights in with soft jazz playing in the background. Food plays a crucial part in our lives, not only because it's a necessity but also because meetings, friendships, first dates, and long lasting traditions - 9 out of 10 times - are centered around food. Remember the last time you asked someone to meet you for tea/coffee/biscuits?

Remember the first date you went on? Or what about that time you were getting to know someone and met up for lunch or dinner? Not to mention all of the holidays and festivities that you partake in! They all involve food and memories. Learning how to cook can make you relive the fond memories you have of a loved one making you something in the kitchen. Don’t continue the trend of what’s fast, easy, and accessible.

You love food? Cook it. Share it. Eat it. Create Memories.