There are so many things nobody tells you how to do as a young adult, and cooking may be one of the most frustrating. Sure, maybe you were lucky enough to grow up in a household where cooking was a family activity, something everyone joyfully participated in. But for most of us, the reality is quite different.
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If you’re sick of having Kraft and Annie’s 5 days out of the week, here are some creators who will help you create healthy, delicious meals on a budget.
Cassie Yeung (@cassieyeungmoney)
The self-described “bad b*tch in the kitch” is a Next Level Chef contestant and true genius when it comes to making Asian-American staples like pad thai, beef and broccoli, congee, and egg drop soup. Yeung is a delightful presence on TikTok and true proof that if you enjoy cooking, you’ll go the extra mile to make every dish that much more special. For starters, try her take on mango mochi.
Mei (@daywithmei)
For folks who aren’t confident enough to take on more ambitious recipes, the fantastic creator and food influencer Mei is here for you. As a tinned fish connoisseur, Mei will help even the most inexperienced chef make the most out of a single trip to Trader Joe’s. Whether you’re trying to feed a crowd or just whipping up a quick girl dinner, Mei’s inflation-proof vids have you covered. As an appetizer, try her recipe for boiled peanuts.
Harrison (@harrywwallace)
Harry Wallace knows how to feed a crowd, and he’ll happily teach you how to do it as well. You can always find Wallace whipping up a massive feast for his large family, and every dish always looks incredible. While some of his recipes might seem hard to master, a few simpler ones—like this butternut squash risotto—are long on time but short on effort, making them perfect picks for date nights.
Scot Louie (@dinnerplus)
If you haven’t come across Scot Louie’s incredible content, well, all I can say is no finger claps for you! In addition to being the founder of kitchen goods company Dinner Plus, Louie is a fantastic home chef whose meals stand up to even the fanciest five-star restaurants. As an amuse-bouche, why not try your hand at his phenomenal-looking recipe for oxtail stuffed shells or hassleback salmon?
Roti (@rotiibrown)
Whether you’re looking to make a perfect, crispy chicken cutlet or a comforting soup that will cure whatever ails you, TikTok star Roti has you covered. Roti’s deeply spiced, often veggie-forward takes on classic weeknight meals never compromise on flavor. If you want proof, start with her foolproof (and fall-inspired) recipe for pumpkin braised short ribs and grits.