I can't really cook, but I can bake. I want to learn more about baking, and find or create some amazing recipes for cookies, desserts, and breads. I like to do things by hand, because I like feeling connected to my food (and that way I "earn" my sweets). The one thing I don't really like is tomato, in any form, unless it doesn't taste like a tomato. Once, I had a spaghetti sauce that was tomato based, but it didn't taste like tomatoes. I'd like to find that, and other secrets, while improving my ability to cook. I love to bake cookies, quick breads, and regular breads (without a bread machine, please). I love to cook something that winds up tasting good - usually this means I have to limit myself to simple things. My parents have passed down a few cooking traditions that I have yet to try. Most of them are very German and consist of meat and potatoes. They are good when looking for a hearty meal, but I'd like to branch out into other choices. I can make a full meal of meat, vegetables, and a carbohydrate, plus dessert, and it will taste good. I can also make a ridiculous amount of nigiri sushi and some other random Japanese food dishes. I also know how to barbecue fairly well, though I've never done anything particularly fancy. I'm very scared about cooking meat - I'm never quite sure about the best way to make sure the meat is done and tasty without it being too dry or too plain. I also wish I knew of different ways to incorporate protein into a meal - whether it is meat or not - instead of just having it with some sides.