In simple terms, the speaker believes that cooking defines humanity's essence. Unlike other animals, humans have a unique inclination towards preparing food through cooking, setting us apart from our animal relatives.
When delving deeper into this perspective, one can interpret the quote as reflecting on how cooking plays a significant role in human culture and society beyond mere survival needs. Cooking is an activity that involves creativity, skill, and knowledge, allowing people to transform raw ingredients into nourishing meals with flavors and textures that are pleasing to our senses. This process also fosters social connections, traditions, and cultural identities. It can be seen as a fundamental aspect of human development, influencing how we communicate, share ideas, and build communities.
Ruth Reichl is an accomplished American writer and former editor-in-chief at Gourmet magazine, known for her insightful essays on food and culture. Her observation encapsulates the profound impact that cooking has had throughout human history, making it a cornerstone of our civilization.
