Creativity & Comfort in Cooking
by S. Mathew
Food itself is a language and an integral part of our cultural identities and experiences. It brings families, friends, and communities together. Cooking can be fun, exciting, adventurous, and a form of creative expression. During COVID-19, many people are cooking more for themselves, their families, and loved ones.
Cooking is my passion, and I find comfort, joy, and happiness when I cook for my friends, family, and community. It is also a way I show love, compassion, and appreciation for those I care about. It gives me a sense of accomplishment knowing that my family and friends enjoy the food I cook.
I love creating my own recipes, as well as incorporating ingredients and flavors from various influences in my life. I usually use whatever ingredients are found in my fridge to create my dishes. I never know how my dish will turn out.
I'd like to share photos of some of my favorite dishes and desserts that I made with love to nourish my loved ones.
Coconut Sticky Rice, Coconut Jelly, and Mango
Kor Sach Chrouk (caramelized pork with eggs, topped with toasted peanuts and green onions)
Coconut Jelly and Mango
Lemongrass Chicken Sauté with Peanut Sauce
Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango
Deviled Eggs
Homemade Madeleines with Orange Zest
Pan Seared Tofu with Green Onions
Coconut Mango Cake with Toasted Almonds and Whipped Cream Frosting
Family dinner meal: Chicken Sauté, Pan Seared Fish with Ginger, and Stir Fried Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Sesame Balls
Crispy Fried Chicken Wings
Homemade Egg Custard Cream Puffs
Num Ansom Chek (Banana Rice Cake)
Sautéed Lemongrass Pork
Spicy, Sweet & Sour Fried Fish
Shrimp Coconut Cake
Fried Mac & Cheese Balls
Nom Krok (Creamy Coconut Cake)
Brownie Topped with Whipped Cream and Strawberries
Cambodian Trey Chearnchoun (Fried Fish with Ginger and Topped with Green Onions)
Cambodian Num Treap (Coconut Sticky Rice)
If you are interested in cooking, here are some cookbooks available in eBook format through San Jose Public Library. If you're currently not a member, read about how to apply for an SJPL e-card.
EVC Students, Faculty & Staff have access to these eBooks with their Single Sign On (SSO) login & password. If you need help with access, follow these directions.
Items from our physical collection are available for request by EVC, SJCC, and SJECCD patrons. Pickups are made by appointment only on Mondays & Wednesdays. Contact evc.circdesk@evc.edu or leave us a message at (408) 270-6433 to make the request.