I thought I was done learning to cook. I was good enough at it to make meals I found palatable — the only standard that really mattered. I had my go-to spice-blend of turmeric, coriander, and chilli that made the flavors pop in vegetables, beans, and eggs.

Gradually, my cooking habit declined. I found myself ordering out for meals more. The reasons sounded convincing. I was busy, missing ingredients, or behind on dishes. The main reason, I eventually realized, was craving variety. I ordered when I was craving a particular flavor. I’d burned myself out on my go-tos.