Ask anyone to finish the sentence, “The best way to a man’s heart…”
And you’ll probably hear:
“Through his stomach.”
It’s a joke, sure—but let’s be honest, there’s some truth in it. And I'm here to also say it works for women too, and probably any gender you find worming their way into your heart. Cause remember kids, love is love 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈
Whether it’s making money, moving your body, loving someone who loves you back, or sitting down to a meal that feeds your spirit—we’re all just trying to make life feel a little easier, a little better, and a little more alive.
And food? Food is one of the most beautiful ways to do that.
I think it was Ina Garten (the Barefoot Contessa) who said her husband fell in love with her over her roast chicken. And honestly? I get it. Roast chicken, when done right, makes anyone feel held, seen, and slightly obsessed with you.
For me? A plate of roast chicken with rice, gravy, and green beans will absolutely make me feel some type of way. But only if the chicken and gravy are right. Because let’s be real, sometimes you do everything exactly the same, and it still doesn’t come out the way you want.
That’s why my secret weapon is my cast iron skillet.
But why cast iron, Thembi?
Glad you asked.
A good cast iron skillet gives you that golden, caramelized bottom that makes the absolute best drippings for gravy. It’s flavor insurance. That beautiful crust? That’s the start of something memorable.
If you’re looking for one to invest in, I love my 10-inch YETI cast iron pan. It’s heavy, it’s built to last, and it’s what I pull out when I want to make an impression.
A good cast iron roast is like a little failsafe. If you overcook a little, no one notices. If you under-season, the pan adds its own layer of flavor. And best of all—it all feels effortless.
So yes, it’s comfort food.
But it’s also low-key seductive.
