In Episode 1 of Adulting Simplified: cook. eat. thrive., we cover the essentials: how to load your dishwasher like a pro, upgrade your sauce game, cook smarter on a budget and practice mindful eating with tips from RD Rachel Macam. Plus, explore local culinary programs in San Diego for those ready to take their skills to the next level.
Welcome to Adulting Simplified: cook. eat. thrive.
New here? You’re in the right place. This is your crash course in adulting — no fluff, just real talk, food hacks, and life skills you’ll actually use.
Not sure where to start?
Watch this quick video to get the vibe.
We’re here to help you level up in the kitchen, save some cash, and feel confident doing your thing.
Ready? ABC let’s go.
Adulting 101: Load Your Dishwasher Like a Pro
Your dishwasher isn’t a drying rack — it’s a time saver. Here’s the fast track:
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Bottom rack = plates & big stuff
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Top rack = cups, bowls, plastics
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Silverware = in the caddy or top drawer
Never put in:
- Chef knives, wood, cast iron, or nonstick pans. They’ll hate you forever.
Boss Sauce Levels: From Basic to Brunch Hero
Ready to upgrade your sauce game? Pick your level:
- Beginner: Lemon Herb Dressing
- No fancy shaker needed — grab a recycled jar and shake it up.
- Intermediate: Homemade Mayo
- Out of store-bought? If you’ve got eggs, oil & vinegar, you’ve got mayo.
- Boss Level: Hollandaise Sauce
- Brunch is calling. This velvety sauce is a flex — and yes, you can make it.
Cooking on a Budget: Store-Bought vs. Homemade
Is homemade really cheaper? Spoiler: yep
Let’s talk mayo:
Store-bought (12 oz): ~$5
Homemade: under $2
Here’s the DIY version from our video:
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1 egg yolk
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1.5 tsp lemon juice
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1.5 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
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¾ cup neutral oil
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¼ tsp salt
That’s it. Cheap and fresh. Your wallet (and sandwich) will thank you.
Eat Smart with Rachel: Mindful Eating Tips
Building a healthier relationship with food starts with awareness — not restriction. If you’ve ever gone from “just a few chips” to “where did they all go?”, you’re not alone. Here’s how to stay in control and still enjoy what you eat.
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Fuel your body during the day. Skipping meals or under-eating can lead to intense cravings later. Aim for balanced meals that include lean protein and fiber — for example, eggs and whole grain toast at breakfast — to help prevent evening snack binges.
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Engage your senses. Notice the aroma, flavor, and texture of your food — crunchy, creamy, salty, sweet. Being present helps you slow down and feel more satisfied.
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Tune into hunger and fullness cues. Start eating when you feel the first signs of hunger, and pause when you’re comfortably full. Slowing down allows your digestive system to signal your brain before you’ve overeaten.
Mindful eating isn’t about rules; it’s about respecting your body’s signals and enjoying food without guilt.
SD Culinary Connections: Enroll in Fall Classes
Thinking about culinary school or job training? Here are a few great local options:
Kitchens For Good
Tuition-free culinary training in San Diego for adults 18+ facing barriers to employment. Want to join the next cohort? – See if you qualify! Learn More Here!
Community College Culinary Programs:
Explore affordable culinary education at local San Diego colleges. In addition to degree programs, many offer extended and continuing education classes — some free or low-cost — so you can build skills at your own pace.
- Train in a student-run restaurant and earn certificates or an AS degree in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry, or Culinary Management.
- Learn from instructors who are seasoned professionals — gain foundational skills through hands-on classes, field trips, and guest chef appearances.
- Build both cooking and baking skills through career-focused certificate and degree programs that also cover food handling, ingredient function, and kitchen teamwork.
