If one is looking for silver linings in the current situation, I saw some McKinsey data the other week suggesting that doing more home cooking is one of the pandemic behaviors that is likely to last longer term.

I found the America’s Test Kitchen books to be great as a starting point. The recipes are good, and generally made from easily accessible ingredients. There is also always a page or two of discussion about developing the recipe (what worked, what didn’t, etc) that includes some instructions on technique. I often give the Best Recipes book as a gift to younger relatives who are just learning.

I wish I could upvote this twice - I came to say the same thing. Being able to cook is one of the best things I've learned. And not just cooking, but being decently able to cook a variety of things.

I've been able to have wonderfully comforting meals after moving overseas, change my diet while still enjoying my food, and actually eat cheap but good tasting meals, a small joy if you are pretty broke.

Or you could learn to eat (and even enjoy) any food... it's much easier heh