Growing up...I had to cook for myself if I wanted something decent. Necessity being the mother of invention I was a pretty daring and good cook by 14. I love Mexican (Tex-Mex), and Italian the most. Basically...doing any type of meat....no matter what style. If I don't know the proper method I will read about it and the prepare for a group. Ask my daughter, she bakes.....BAKING is not my area of expertise. Hats off to the bread makers of the world