Living in Perth for nine months now, I can’t help but reminisce about the chill yet chaotic vibes of my hometown, Cebu.

To cope with my homesickness, I’ve picked up a skill I never fully embraced before: cooking. Back in Cebu, I rarely cooked my own meals, but since moving here, it has become my lifesaver during moments of longing for home.

Cooking has allowed me to experience a taste of home while providing an opportunity to bond with my mother over video calls. She often helps me with her recipes, making the experience even more special. It’s also become a personal retreat, taking my mind off things and allowing me to enjoy some quality me-time.

Here are a few dishes I’ve cooked:

Jollibee-inspired burger steak

Mang Inasal-inspired Chicken BBQ

Creamy Bistek

If you ever find yourself feeling homesick, I recommend reaching out to your mom for recipes, talking to a friend, or scrolling through TikTok for inspiration. It can really make a difference.