Old habits die hard

Ever noticed how a change of environment can completely transform your daily habits?

My journey from the Netherlands to Japan has vividly illustrated this for me.

While visiting the Netherlands, I found myself clinging to old habits, especially when it came to groceries. The familiar sight of freshly baked bread, a variety of cheeses, and creamy yogurt drew me in like an old friend.

Even in the kitchen, I couldn’t resist the allure of classic dishes like spaghetti with rich tomato meat sauce or indulgent carbonara. And then there’s the notorious beanpot, the source of endless discomfort but also comfort from home.

Now, contrast this with my life in Japan, where the culinary landscape is a world apart. Here, the foods are entirely different, and my usual staples are not as readily available. The flavors, textures, and ingredients are like a symphony of novelty, offering new gastronomic adventures around every corner.

This shift in environment has been a powerful catalyst for change. It’s a testament to how surroundings shape our routines and how easily we adapt to the culinary tapestry of a new place. With each meal, I’m learning to embrace the unfamiliar and broaden my palate.

In the end, it’s a reminder that change, even in something as simple as our food choices, can be a fascinating and rewarding journey of discovery.