Scott wrote:
>
>>
>> Butchaknowwhat? I know a number of folks (relatives, neighbor) who
>> *must* have a recipe and then they follow it to the letter. They lack
>> confidence in their ability to improvise.
>
> You hit the nail right on the head...but I'm starting to gain confidence.
> I really admire people who can just 'whip' up a dish and know what and
> how much spices and herbs to use in a dish. What hurts me is I'm not the
> adventurous type...I like to play it safe.

Why not search for detailed recipes (or check out some cookbooks and get
one that makes sense) that don't use all of the "space stuff"? That way
you can get a feel for what goes with what (which will never happen with
xxx mix etc)and you can tinker with the amounts when you get more
confidence and before you know it you can assemble dishes instinctively.