Dorm Cooking Adventures

So, I know that this blog has mainly been about eating out and around campus. It's true that most college students get the majority of their meals in the cafeteria, other on campus dining centers, or somewhere off campus on the go, but what about those who cook for themselves? On campus? I have to admit, for a self-proclaimed foodie who loves to cook, I've always avoided doing so. Not having a set of pots and pans and the like (what college student has room to store such things), or the money to buy all of my ingredients, I saw the idea of cooking for myself as a splendid one, yet hopelessly unattainable. Once I started brainstorming ideas for "The Starving Student," it became all too apparent that, at sometime, I would have to put my skills and patience to the test and ask the question: Can a college student successfully cook a full meal in a dorm kitchen? This week, I took on this query and have returned with an answer.

My task: Guacamole and chips, Chicken Fajitas, and Bananas in Caramel Sauce

The place: your average residence-hall kitchen.

It all started with a trip to the Kroger on Campbell Lane where I purchased my ingredients. I was able to get out of there for around $40, which is a steep price I know. Although, I did opt for organic poultry and more authentic ethnic ingredients, such as the tortilla shells and black beans. Upon returning to the dorm, I unloaded my four bags of groceries along with the pots and pans coaxed away from my father (bless him) over the weekend. My cooking experience is documented in the photo slide show featured in this entry. The photos were taken by both myself and my roommate.

Phase 1: Guacamole! Possibly the most fun part of the whole adventure. My roommate, the lovely Ashley, and I made the guac the real way, with our hands.

Phase 2: Chopping the veggies. I did the guacamole and veggie chopping in the room, not wanting to monopolize the kitchen any more than necessary. Note to self: chop onions in a more ventilated area next time.

Phase 3: Putting everything together. At this point, we wandered into the kitchen and began cooking the rice, chicken, and vegetables. Ashley took the photos from here on out, as I was busy monitoring all the range top and oven.

Phase 4: Good eatin's.

Phase 5: Dessert. Bananas in Caramel Sauce: trust me, you do NOT want to know how much butter we used here.

Overall, the cooking adventure was a success! It is possible to cook a full meal in a residence hall kitchen. I actually had some fun, and it was nice to get a break from on campus dining. I would not, however, recommend this for most meals as it is a hassle, and pretty darn expensive. If you'd like to know more about the recipes or ingredients used, feel free to email me at anna.anderson931@wku.edu. Thanks!