The Diary Game: 08/05/2026 || Our Cooking Practical Experience in the Lab

A Different Day in the Department

Today was quite different from the usual days we spend attending lectures and writing notes. Our department had a cooking practical in the lab, and from the moment I arrived, I could already tell it was going to be an interesting session. Everybody seemed active and ready for the practical. Some students were already discussing what we would be cooking, while others were arranging the materials we would need. The atmosphere felt relaxed, and there was a lot of excitement because it was one of those activities where everyone could participate directly instead of just listening to instructions.

Ingredients

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Onions

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Crayfish

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Periwinkle

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Vegetables

Getting Everything Ready

Before the cooking started, we had to arrange all the ingredients and utensils properly. Different items were brought out and placed on the tables. We had fresh okra, pepper, onions, seasoning cubes, and other ingredients that would be used during the cooking process. Everybody gathered around as the ingredients were being organized. Looking at everything laid out on the table made the practical feel more real because it was no longer just something we talked about in class. We were actually going to prepare the food ourselves and see the process from beginning to end.

The Preparation Stage

The preparation stage took some time because there were many things to do before the actual cooking could begin. Some students helped with washing and arranging the ingredients, while others assisted in setting up the cooking area. There was movement everywhere in the lab as people worked together to make sure everything was ready. What I enjoyed most was seeing everyone contribute in one way or another. Nobody wanted to be left out, and that made the practical more lively and enjoyable.

Starting the Cooking Process

Once everything was finally prepared, the cooking began. The pot was placed on the heat, and gradually the ingredients started going in. At that moment, everyone paid close attention because we wanted the food to come out well. Some students stood close by to observe the process while others discussed what should happen next. The practical became even more interesting because we were not just watching; we were learning through the experience itself.

Watching the Food Cook

As time passed, the food gradually started taking shape. Steam began rising from the pot, and the aroma slowly spread around the lab. Every now and then, the pot was stirred to make sure everything mixed properly. It was interesting watching the ingredients blend together because the appearance of the food kept changing as it cooked. The smell coming from the pot attracted more attention, and many people became curious about how the final result
would look and taste.

The Atmosphere in the Lab

One thing I really noticed throughout the practical was the atmosphere in the lab. There was a good balance between learning and enjoyment. People were asking questions, sharing opinions, and helping one another when necessary. There were also moments of laughter during the practical, especially when different suggestions were being made about the cooking. Those little moments made the session feel more natural and enjoyable rather than overly serious.

The Final Result

After spending a good amount of time preparing and cooking, the food was finally ready. Seeing the finished meal felt satisfying because we had watched every stage of the process. The ingredients blended together well, and the appearance of the food showed that the effort put into the practical was worth it. By this time, everyone wanted to see the outcome after following the cooking process from the beginning.

Looking Back on the Experience

By the end of the practical, I realized that it was more than just preparing a meal. It was an opportunity to learn through experience, work together as a group, and understand the different stages involved in cooking. From arranging the ingredients to watching steam rise from the pot and finally seeing the completed meal, every stage contributed to the experience. It was a practical session that brought everyone together and created memories beyond the normal classroom routine. Looking back at the day, I can honestly say it was one of the most engaging and enjoyable activities we have had in the department in a while.