Dami O. is a classmate and co-Student Council member who has made a big footprint on our class from her exuberance to her work on our 2019 yearbook. Her Instagram stories frequently feature her making rice or plantains and it always looks mouth-wateringly delicious, so I thought she'd be a good person to learn from! Here are her direct responses to my email:
Hi love!
So I actually don't use recipes when I cook (yikes!) so I don't have any of those. BUT here are answers to your questions:
Growing up, who made food at your house? What did they make and what was your favorite thing to eat?
I grew up in Nigeria (till age 10), then in the United States. Both of my parents made food - mostly my mom. Back when we were in Nigeria, my grandmother cooked for us as well. My absolute favorite is anything that incorporates fried sweet plantain. YUM!
How has your diet changed since that time? Why?
My diet actually hasn't changed much. I grew up watching my family cook our traditional dishes, so I now make them myself for the most part. Thankfully, there are also Nigerian/West African restaurants I can visit. My diet also now includes more western/American foods since moving to the States of course.
What made you start cooking? What was it like when you first started cooking?
It was simply ingrained in me as a young child. In Nigeria, it is cultural tradition for young girls to learn how to cook. It was never forced on me - more of a natural interest and transition.
Who do you cook for and why?
Mostly myself, my family, and my boyfriend. In med-school, I mostly cook for myself. Then there's Miles (he loves Nigerian food)
Do you have any special philosophies on the groceries you buy or the food you decide to eat?
I think it's important to stay as healthy as possible, but I think eating should be for enjoyment so I don't try to put too many restrictions on myself. I also eat what makes my body happy (e.g. I avoid foods that give me heartburn, or make me feel too heavy after a meal, etc.)
Where are your favorite places to go out to eat or order in--every day and special occasion?
A good steak from time to time makes me quite happy. Specifically a fancy dinner at Del Frisco's. YUM.
My appetite changes quite often, so I actually don't have one particular place I like to order from consistently (I get tired of foods quickly and then circle back)
What's your favorite food (home cooking or pure trash hehe)--like the food that makes you totally swoon.
I promise you - Fried. Sweet. Plantain. Makes. The. World. Go. Round :)
Do you have any goals for the next couple of years that are cooking/food related?
To cook more and to learn more recipes - to be more creative, especially when I start cooking for myself and a 'husband'. Hehehe
Any food/cooking related special thoughts or memories that you just wanted to share?
Food is LIIIIIIFE. Now I'm suddenly hungry. Brb.
