Your Kitchen Sanctuary Awaits

Before you begin “eating with the GOAT” in your own kitchen, I recommend taking a moment to tidy up your space. Organizing and adding a little aesthetic touch can go a long way. Even small changes can help create an environment that’s inspiring and enjoyable to cook in (and really, this applies to anything in life!). Now I’m no professional organiser and I do not claim that my way is the best way, but I do know that cooking feels all the more comforting when you have an inviting space to create in!

But if you’re not someone who has the time or energy to do that, no worries—just dive right into cooking!

Now, let me share a little about my own cooking environment. I like to keep my countertops clear of clutter, with a few of my favourite pieces on display. (If you like clutter and that helps you find your calm, then by all means, stick with the clutter.) These favourite pieces of mine often double as vessels for my go-to tea and coffee varieties. I also keep my essential appliances, utensils, and a condiment station within easy reach for day-to-day cooking. Whenever possible, I like to add a touch of nature with a plant or fresh flowers. There’s something about having a simple arrangement of blooms that brings me so much joy. You can’t help but smile at their beauty. Also, I can’t stress this enough: start your cooking session with a clean sink. There’s nothing worse than finishing up a meal only to face a pile of dishes on top of old dishes. My mum, always practical, cleans as she goes, leaving very little mess behind. For me, I prefer to focus on the prep and cooking, and deal with the clean up afterward. But the task is definitely more overwhelming when you begin with dishes piled up.

Next, let’s talk about food storage. I try to keep my fridge organized (though I won’t claim it’s perfect all the time). My spice drawer, on the other hand, is a source of pride—it took me ages to get the kitchen space to make it just right. I used to rely on a spice rack or turntable, which gave me similar satisfaction, but after watching The Home Edit, I finally got my herbs and spices (and the rest of my pantry) in order. Surprisingly, it has stayed pretty neat ever since.

I’ve always had a passion for baking (I once ran an online bakery—successful, but I didn’t have the courage to leave my job and pursue it full-time). The bottom two drawers of my pantry are stocked with baking essentials, making it easy to access everything when I need it. Lately, my daughters have caught the baking bug too, so things occasionally get messy, but I do my best to bite my tongue, even though deep down it bugs me. Ssshhh! Because I do love that they are getting comfortable in the kitchen.

Lastly, my kitchen equipment is conveniently stored near the stove and fridge, so I’m not running around looking for things. It’s all about efficiency, and I like to keep things simple. My pots and pans beside one side of the stove, the casserole and pie dishes etc. on the right side of the stove. Utensils and knives also remain stove side, but on the bench top as I use them daily. Baking essentials are in a deep draw close by to the stove but I keep them underneath the prep bench as that is the space in which I would utilise this equipment most often.

Urrghhhh! Listen to me! I sound way too clinical! I promise I am not encouraging you rearrange, clean and organise before you begin this process. It’s your kitchen…do what you wish. But I do know that the task of cooking is always that much less appealing to me if I’m walking into disorganisation to start. It ends in frustration and non-enjoyment which is the complete opposite of what I am trying to do here. You might also find that as you begin to regain your mojo, the satisfaction of having an organised sanctuary will become more appealing and more motivating to upkeep. I will confess that behind all the other drawers and doors, though, you’ll find messy shelves—just like anyone else. I keep telling myself I’ll get to them, but, of course, never do.

So that’s the aesthetic side of creating your kitchen sanctuary. The next part is making sure your pantry has the basics for general cooking. When you’re ready to begin this journey, you’ll be more prepared and able to check off a few items from your shopping list. Having said that, you may also find that you create your own basic pantry along the way.

My pantry staples are divided into two main sections. The first section includes basic flavourings and essential cooking ingredients: oils, salt, pepper, vinegars, soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, tinned tomatoes, and a selection of dried herbs and spices. The second section bares home to basic baking essentials such as flours, sugars, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cocoa powder, breadcrumbs, coconut etc. While I don’t reach for all these items daily, I definitely find myself using them regularly enough to warrant having a bulk supply on hand. This collection of ingredients turns bland into beautiful for your everyday meals, then ensures you have some essentials ready for you when you decide to begin ‘Eating with the GOAT’.

Reclaiming your joy in the kitchen starts with creating a space that truly supports and inspires you. When your environment is calm, functional, and inviting, cooking transforms from a daily obligation into a satisfying, even restorative, experience. Whether it’s clearing the clutter, adding a splash of personality, or simply organizing your tools and ingredients for better flow, these small changes can reignite your passion for preparing meals. So take the time to shape a kitchen that feels good to be in, and watch as your culinary mojo comes back to life—one delicious dish at a time.

We are ready to begin! Let’s get cooking!

The rhythm is in the cooking. The soul is in the experience. Grab those cookbooks, tie on your apron and join me next time at Eating With The GOAT!