Five years ago today, I embarked on a new job from the comfort of my parents’ kitchen. At the time, my siblings and I, all young adults pursuing our respective paths — my brother in medical school and my sister in undergrad — found ourselves working together at the family dining table, reminiscing about our school days.
The initial days of the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020 likely held some similarities for everyone, yet each individual’s experience was uniquely different. While anxiety and uncertainty were common, I was fortunate not to face the same level of grief as those who lost loved ones to the virus.
As we mark the five-year anniversary of the pandemic, it’s a time for reflection and gratitude. We honor the first responders who bravely faced the crisis, as well as remember those who lost their lives or continue to battle long-term health issues due to COVID. It’s also a moment to appreciate the small glimmers of hope that shone through the darkness. Amidst the fear and sorrow, people discovered joy in new activities and connections that emerged during this challenging period.
During the weeks spent at my parents’ home before returning to my apartment in New York, I delved into the depths of boredom. While I acknowledge my experience was far less severe compared to others, it led to unexpected social interactions that lifted my spirits.
I reconnected with old friends over FaceTime, mixed cocktails with my family as if we were at a fancy bar, binge-watched “Tiger King,” and even joined the online debate about Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin. I also tried my hand at baking banana bread, like many others seeking solace in the kitchen.
The early months of the pandemic saw a collective culinary trend across the United States, where people turned to home cooking out of necessity and comfort. Not only were restaurants off-limits, but concerns about food security heightened as the future seemed uncertain. Cooking at home became a practical and cost-effective solution for many, myself included.
While I had the privilege of being able to afford ingredients and work remotely, I recognize not everyone shared the same advantages. These circumstances allowed me to fully embrace the evolving food culture of that time.
Popular pandemic dishes were less about aesthetics or social media appeal, and more about the therapeutic nature of cooking itself. The surge in sourdough baking exemplified this trend, with home bakers turning to creating their own starters as yeast shortages hit stores.
As people embraced these culinary pursuits, a sense of unity and shared experience emerged. Cooking became a way to navigate the uncertainties of the world, fostering connections and creativity during challenging times.
If you’ve ever considered diving into the world of sourdough starter, diligently weighing and feeding it each day, then why not give it a shot? The surge in home baking during the COVID era resulted in a flour shortage, spurred on by the popularity of sourdough and another easy-to-make favorite: banana bread. While a loaf of banana bread is relatively quick to whip up, it may seem like a daunting task for those new to baking at home. Not to mention, you’ll need to wait a few days for your bananas to ripen to the perfect state.
Banana bread holds a special place in many hearts as a comforting treat. Personally, I have fond memories of my grandmother sending me Tupperwares filled with her banana bread during stressful college finals, bringing homey joy during challenging times. Perhaps, in the early days of lockdown, we turned to baking banana bread to seek solace amidst the uncertainty.
In April 2020, renowned chef and author Samin Nosrat initiated a virtual dinner party via Instagram Live, inviting people to partake in a communal cooking experience by making a labor-intensive dish: lasagna from scratch. This project not only served as a tangible distraction but also tapped into our shared desire for connection through food.
The act of cooking and eating together, even virtually, became a vital coping mechanism in the face of the 2020 crisis, highlighting the enduring comfort and unity found in shared meals. Sometimes, dedicating time to cook for oneself can be just as rewarding and fulfilling. Whether you’re craving a new culinary challenge, a delicious meal, or simply seeking solace in the kitchen, cooking can offer a therapeutic escape from the chaos of the world.
The communal spirit of cooking that emerged during challenging times serves as a timeless reminder of the nourishing power of food. Whether offering comfort to those in need, celebrating with friends, or facing a global crisis, the act of preparing and sharing meals remains a source of solace and connection in our lives.
