Dear Editor,

It seems like the art of cooking at home is quickly disappearing in Antigua and Barbuda. Everywhere you turn, it’s fast food, delivery, or some fancy takeout. From Chinese to Syrian shawarma to chicken and chips to burgers and pizza, many of us are living on drive-thru diets. But the question is, why are Antiguans so afraid of the kitchen?

Once upon a time, cooking was part of our culture. Every house had the smell of Sunday pot roast, ducana and saltfish, or pepperpot bubbling on the stove. Now, even simple things like boiling rice or frying plantain seem like a challenge for some.

Yes, times have changed, people are busier, life more expensive, and convenience often wins. But it’s also about choice. We spend more on fast food in a week than it would cost to cook healthy meals for the family. And let’s not forget, many of these quick meals are loaded with salt, oil, and preservatives, good for the taste buds, bad for the waistline.

Cooking at home doesn’t just save money; it connects us back to our roots. It’s where we share recipes, laughter, and love. Maybe it’s time we put down the phone, pick up a pot, and bring back that home-cooked Antiguan flavour that once defined us.

So the next time you think of ordering takeout, ask yourself: is it that we’re too busy, or just fraid the kitchen?

Respectfully,
Shanicee Burnes