spice

Assume you're willing to use a computer. Still no real good solution.

Is it not? I'm saying that the problem identified as the home computer's raison d'etre is not solved. Is it is, I want the solution (like I said, I want to make pate). If it isn't, I think working out why is an interesting sort of a thread.

maybe not.

Anyway, if you can come up with a way to recommend a recipe specifically for my tastes, available ingredients & all that Jazz, I'm in. But first I'd like to know why the simple solution isn't working.

Actually, I wouldn't worry too much about differing tastes. I think that there is some sort of semi-objectivity to food. A good recipe is a good recipe.

Accounting for tastes could be taken care of reasonably well in well named recipes: 'country style ratatouille' Thai style ratatouille, a new twist on an old favorite.'

But anyway, I think there's more to it then just recipes. I want to make pate. Could be trout, could be pork, could be goose. Where do I start. What kind of pate do i want. A really good solution would let you find new foods.

Well, 'good' is important. I also need to know that it's good.

Well one very web 1.0 solution would be a big online cookbook with good recipes & articles & such. I'd settle for that.