The balancing act: cooking, career & community

Life in the U.S. required more than just adapting to a new kitchen – it meant juggling multiple roles.

Back in India, household tasks were often shared. Cooking was a communal experience, supported by extended family and household help. Chopping vegetables, grinding fresh spices, and preparing meals were collective efforts that made the kitchen a space of togetherness rather than just a place of work.

When I moved here, the dynamic changed. Suddenly, my husband and I were juggling between work and being Uber parents for our girls and their extracurriculars – all while managing the responsibilities of running a household. The transition was overwhelming at first. I missed the comforting rhythm of home, where meals were slow-cooked with patience and food was a bridge to connection. But amid the chaos, I found my anchor: food itself.

In today’s fast-paced world, we all look for ways to simplify cooking while keeping meals fresh and nourishing. While convenience is essential, I still hold onto the wisdom of slow cooking, fresh ingredients, and mindful preparation – practices deeply rooted in my upbringing. I’ve learned that balancing tradition with modern efficiency is key. Weekly meal prepping, batch cooking, and embracing new ingredients allow me to nourish my family while staying true to my roots. Keeping a balanced diet and incorporating Satvik food into our meals is my comfort – it keeps me grounded, energized, and connected to my heritage.

Photo provided by Pooja Thakkar

One thing we have made a point to prioritize is having at least one meal together as a family. No matter how busy the day gets, sitting down at the table allows us to wind down, share reflections, and stay connected. These moments, however simple, reinforce the idea that food is more than sustenance – it is a time to pause, listen, and be present with one another.

Living in Indiana, far from home, I have embraced this balancing act. My kitchen is now a space where cultures blend. I experiment with global flavors, mixing the comfort of home-cooked Indian meals with the diversity of my new community. Grocery budgeting, exploring local farmers’ markets, and connecting with others over shared meals have deepened my appreciation for food’s ability to build relationships.

As I prepare for the Taste of Community potluck and book signing on Sept. 18, I invite you to reflect on your own food journey. What recipes ground you? What flavors remind you of home? Join me in celebrating the stories that shape our tables and bring our communities closer – one meal at a time. Please RSVP and reach out to me through tasteofcommunity25@gmail.com.

Pooja Thakkar is working to build connections through cuisine. You can read her column each Saturday in the pages of The Reporter.