As I sit here in the College Library second-floor computer lab and stare out onto the lake, it's hard not to get a little sad thinking this will be my last column of my run as Sweet-n-Sour Kraut. I'm so lucky to have a blueberry scone from Open Book Café here to comfort me through this difficult time.
I have to say, though, thanks to my column, eating for the sake of eating has never been better. I've finally found something I can direct all of this hungry energy into besides the refrigerator.
Aside from giving me an excuse to eat, having this column taught me a lot about life and the true art involved with food. I feel it is my duty to pass on these tips to all you eaters out there.
Love thy kitchen
Before it became my job to write about food, I was really unadventurous when it came to cooking. Now I find myself breaking out the frying pan a bit more and getting creative. I may have set the fire alarm off in my apartment a few times, but at least I tried.
Eat what you love
I'm sick and tired of people constantly ridiculing each other about their likes and dislikes, especially when it comes to food. I'll admit it: I hate cream cheese more than anything else in this world. When I see it, I literally have to run in the opposite direction in order to avoid the gag reflex.
Many a bagel-lover has tortured me about my aversion to a good schmear, but I'm not going to defend myself any longer. Everyone should be entitled to eat whatever he or she likes. One of my roommates eats olives with M&Ms stuck inside. Another eats cottage cheese with French dressing. It sounds weird, but more power to them. No one should be able to tell us what we should or shouldn't eat, and the more creative we are, the better.
Relax a little
This applies to all the gourmets out there trying to be hip. Great food doesn't have to be stuffy and uptight with teeny tiny portions. Restaurants should be considered elite because their food is beyond words, not because there is a white tablecloth and five forks on your right.
Embrace gluttony
I used to be a little embarrassed when it came to overeating in public. But now, after stuffing my face sometimes for research, I can honestly say I have no qualms about eating as much as humanly possible in a single sitting.
When I opened my eyes, I realized people, especially my family, are usually impressed with my consumption abilities, not appalled. Nothing feels better than carrying a slight food baby along from class to class. Don't be ashamed.
Never worry about weight gain
This goes along with embracing your inner glutton, but when it comes down to it, life is way too short to limit yourself. The Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior or Senior 15 is an inevitable aspect of the collegiate lifestyle. Live it and love it. Let's be honest with ourselves, epic meals are always the best meals, especially when they are consumed at Dotty's - sampler baskets for life.
Love Madison
Above all else, I've learned to absolutely love Madison and the culinary hodgepodge that is this fine city. Where else can you find a main street sprinkled with ethnic masterpieces like Husnus and Himal Chuli? All of these different cuisines make Madison a great place to bring out your inner foodie.
Forgo Ian's Pizza for a day and order some Vientiene Palace instead. We go to school in the best city ever, filled with endless options. There's no reason to not try them all while you're here. Find these hidden gems and be daring. You won't be disappointed.
Consider these tips for the ultimate food experience in Madison, or wherever your lives and palettes may take you. Have an amazing year, and never stop eating.
If you can't wait to spread the news about your food baby, e-mail Ariel at akraut@wisc.edu.
