The Art of Everyday Luxury: A Journey Through Simplicity and Self-Cooked Meals

Good morning, dear readers! Today, I invite you to join me on a rather unique journey that blends the world of culinary discovery with personal introspection. As a podcaster who has spent countless hours discussing the nuances of Japanese culture and the intricacies of daily life, I’ve recently encountered a delightful paradox: true luxury is found in simplicity. And, surprisingly enough, this lesson unfolded in my humble kitchen, through the act of cooking one of the most ordinary dishes imaginable—hotpot.

Hotpot, a dish many would associate with casual dinners or family gatherings, has become more than just a meal for me. It is now a window into a lifestyle that celebrates the everyday, a philosophy that champions the beauty in routine and repetition. As I’ve moved into a new chapter of my life—living alone in Japan’s Kansai region—my approach to cooking has changed dramatically. Instead of seeking novelty in elaborate dishes or rushing to the next trendy restaurant, I’ve turned inward, focusing on what I can create with my own hands, and more importantly, what I can learn about myself in the process.

This is the story of how a simple dish—prepared, eaten, and enjoyed in solitude—has brought me closer to understanding what luxury truly means.

A New Chapter: Cooking for One

After years of living with family, I found myself in a small apartment, alone for the first time. Initially, this new lifestyle was a shock to the system. The quietness of my space felt overwhelming, and I missed the daily rhythms of shared meals and conversations. But soon enough, I began to embrace the quiet, finding a certain peace in the stillness of my solo existence.

When it came to food, I could no longer rely on others to share in the cooking process or help decide what we should eat. Dining out was an obvious option, and given that I live in a region known for its delicious cuisine, it was certainly tempting. But something within me pushed me to resist the allure of restaurants. I wanted to challenge myself, to see if I could find joy and contentment in something as simple as cooking for myself.

At first, I experimented with a variety of dishes. I tried to recreate the elaborate meals I once cooked for family dinners—Japanese curry, pasta dishes, even Spanish-inspired meals—but something was missing. No matter how good the food tasted, the effort felt disproportionate to the outcome. I was cooking like I was still feeding a table full of people, when in reality, I was the only one eating.

This is where hotpot comes into the picture.

Discovering the Magic of Hotpot

Hotpot is traditionally a communal dish, shared among friends and family, often bubbling away in the center of the table as everyone reaches in to cook their chosen ingredients. But for me, hotpot has become the ideal solo meal. It’s simple to prepare, nutritious, and comforting—a perfect match for my new lifestyle.

One of the most appealing aspects of hotpot is its versatility. It’s a dish that can adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand, and it never feels repetitive. My routine involves preparing a large batch at the beginning of the week, dividing it into portions, and storing them in the fridge. This approach not only ensures that I always have a home-cooked meal ready to go, but it also takes the stress out of deciding what to eat each day.

I vary the ingredients based on what’s fresh and in season, but the core elements remain the same: a selection of vegetables, some thinly sliced meat or tofu, and a broth made from simple yet flavorful kelp stock. The kelp, or kombu, is key—it infuses the broth with a delicate umami that brings all the other ingredients together. As the broth simmers, the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, while the meat cooks to tender perfection. It’s a meal that requires little effort but rewards you with layers of flavor and nourishment.

There’s something profoundly luxurious about this routine. In a world that values excess, indulgence, and constant stimulation, I’ve found immense satisfaction in the simplicity of boiling a pot of broth and carefully choosing what to add. The ritual of it—the preparation, the slow cooking, the anticipation—feels rich, not in the material sense, but in the way it nurtures both body and soul.

From Complexity to Simplicity

Reflecting on my culinary journey, I can’t help but think about how my relationship with food has evolved over time. When I used to cook for my family, my focus was on creating dishes that would bring joy and satisfaction to others. I took great pride in the meals I prepared, pouring love into every detail. From hamburgers to elaborate Japanese dishes, the process was always about sharing and ensuring everyone at the table was happy.

But cooking for myself has taught me a different kind of joy—a quieter, more introspective joy. In the past, the effort of preparing complex meals was validated by the reactions of others. Now, the reward is internal. I find comfort in the routine of preparing my hotpot, knowing that it’s just for me, and that in its simplicity, it holds a deeper sense of satisfaction.

This shift from complexity to simplicity has been a powerful lesson. We often associate luxury with grand, elaborate experiences—dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, traveling to exotic locations, or indulging in expensive treats. But what if luxury is, in fact, about simplicity? What if it’s about being present in the moment, appreciating the flavors and textures of a meal that you’ve cooked with your own hands?

The Philosophy of Everyday Luxury

This brings me to a larger reflection on the concept of luxury itself. The more I’ve thought about it, the more I’ve realized that luxury doesn’t have to be about material wealth or extravagance. Instead, it can be about recognizing the value in the small things we often overlook.

Hotpot, for example, is a humble dish. It’s not something you’d find on the menu of a fine-dining establishment, but in its abundance of ingredients and the depth of its flavors, it offers a sensory experience that rivals any high-end meal. And the best part? It’s accessible to everyone. You don’t need fancy equipment or rare ingredients—just a pot, some broth, and whatever vegetables and proteins you have on hand.

This idea of everyday luxury extends beyond food. It’s about slowing down and savoring life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, taking a walk through a quiet park, or reading a book in the afternoon sunlight. These moments, though fleeting, are where true luxury resides—not in things, but in the way we experience them.

Lessons from Travel

This philosophy of simplicity and mindfulness has also influenced the way I approach travel. As a lover of Japanese culture, I’ve had the privilege of exploring many parts of this beautiful country. Recently, I took a trip with a friend from America, visiting iconic destinations like Osaka’s Tennoji, the majestic Osaka Castle, and the peaceful city of Nara.

Travel, like food, is often seen as something to be consumed in large, exciting doses. We’re bombarded with images of exotic locales, luxury resorts, and Instagram-worthy adventures. But as I’ve journeyed through Japan, I’ve learned that the best experiences aren’t always the ones that are flashy or expensive. Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the quiet ones—the unplanned detours, the conversations with locals, the small discoveries made along the way.

One of my favorite memories from our trip was a simple afternoon spent wandering the streets of Nara, feeding the friendly deer that roam the city. It wasn’t an extravagant experience, but it left a lasting impression. There was something peaceful about the slow pace of the day, the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, and the connection I felt with the natural surroundings.

Just like hotpot, travel doesn’t have to be about extravagance. It’s about being present, about noticing the details, and about appreciating the beauty in the everyday. Whether it’s a hidden temple or a quiet alley, there’s luxury in the act of exploration itself.

Sharing My Journey Through Podcasts and Vlogs

As a podcaster, I’ve found immense joy in sharing these reflections with my audience. My podcast isn’t just a platform for discussing Japanese culture—it’s become a space where I explore the deeper lessons I’ve learned through cooking, travel, and daily life. I talk about how small, mindful practices like preparing hotpot can bring a sense of peace and fulfillment, even in the midst of life’s chaos.

To complement the podcast, I also run a YouTube channel where I share vlogs of my travels and experiences in Japan. I’ve made it a point to showcase the cultural treasures of Kansai, from the bustling streets of Osaka to the historical sites of Nara. Through carefully edited videos, I invite viewers to join me on these journeys, offering a glimpse into the heart of Japan’s rich cultural landscape.

In many ways, my content is an extension of the same philosophy I apply to cooking and travel—slow down, pay attention to the details, and find joy in the process. Whether it’s planning a trip or preparing a meal, the key is to be present and to appreciate the beauty in what might otherwise seem ordinary.

Conclusion: The Luxury of Simplicity

In conclusion, my journey through cooking and beyond has taught me a profound truth: luxury is not about excess or opulence. It’s about finding richness in the simple, the familiar, and the everyday. Whether it’s a bowl of hot

pot or a quiet walk through Nara’s streets, true luxury comes from the way we experience the world around us.

I’ve learned to find joy in the act of cooking for myself, to savor the flavors of a dish I’ve made with my own hands. I’ve discovered that travel doesn’t have to be about ticking off bucket-list destinations—it’s about being present, exploring at your own pace, and appreciating the little moments along the way.

And as I share these reflections with my listeners and viewers, I hope to inspire others to embrace this philosophy of everyday luxury. In a world that constantly pushes us to seek more—more excitement, more possessions, more experiences—I encourage you to pause, take a breath, and find contentment in the simplicity of the moment.

Until next time, dear readers and listeners, may your days be filled with the warmth of a well-cooked hotpot and the richness of gratitude for life’s small, yet luxurious pleasures.