26. Mashed potatoes
When done right, it’s the dish everyone remembers from holiday gatherings.
27. Fish
The whole process. Catch it, put those pocket knives to use, and then throw it over a flame.
28. The family recipe
Every family has one. It’s your responsibility to carry on the legacy of whatever absurd dish your forefathers cooked up.
29. Oatmeal
It’s simple and healthy.
30. Risotto
A lesson in attention. There’s no checking your Instagram feed when you’re cooking risotto.
31. A chocolate cake
You want to win birthday points? This is how you win birthday points.
32. One challenging dish from a fairly advanced cookbook
(Try one of these: Alinea, On the Line, The French Laundry Cookbook.)
33. Pancakes from scratch
34. Gravy
It’s stupid easy and saves even the driest of birds.
35. These
You never know when you’ll feel like eating a towel.
36. Nachos with good cheese, quality chips, and fresh toppings
37. Chicken soup like your mother made
38. Your favorite dish
Tell the chef you love it. Ask him what’s in it. Then try to recreate it at home. Just know he didn’t tell you everything.
39. Stovetop popcorn
Ditch the bags.
40. Pork belly
It’s like bacon on steroids.
41. Dog Treats
A dog shall not live by Iams alone.
42. A whole turkey
Look, you’re gonna host Thanksgiving one day. Don’t blow it.
43. Something over a campfire
44. A poached egg
People will think you’re a damn wizard.
45. A hearty stew
Pair with #16 to help you get through winter.
46. Creme brulee
You get to use a freaking blowtorch!
47. Roasted veggies
A healthy side that will hone your knife skills and teach you the importance of uniform cuts.
48. A solid stock. Chicken or vegetable.
It will transform dishes and soups in a way a store-bought box never could.
49. Good pesto
It’s not just for pasta.
50. Your significant other’s favorite meal
Fingers crossed it’s Chef Boyardee.
