About

Hi! I’m Jenna - the cook, tinkerer, pop culture fanatic, and pun‑lover behind Basil Instincts. I started this blog because I believe cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little guidance (and a dash of humor), anyone can build confidence in the kitchen.

​When I’m not testing recipes or building out the Kitchenary, you’ll probably find me:

• Freestyling soups and stocks from whatever’s in the fridge.

• Listening to music (Kendrick Lamar, Debussy, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, any pop or grunge song from the 1990's are my latest soundtrack).

• Playing with playful branding ideas - because food should be fun, not fussy.

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My Philosophy 

I design recipes and resources for every kind of cook:

• Beginners who want step‑by‑step support (mise en place included).

• Curious home cooks who love learning new techniques.

• Experienced foodies who appreciate approachable recipes with personality.

My goal is simple: to make cooking less about perfection and more about instinct—trusting your senses, having fun, and celebrating small wins along the way.

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This space isn’t just about my recipes - it’s about building a welcoming community where everyone feels comfortable experimenting in the kitchen. So whether you’re here for a quick dinner idea, a glossary deep‑dive, or just a pun or two, I’m glad you’re here.

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“Ready to cook by instinct? Start with a beginner recipe, explore the Kitchenary, or dive into the latest article. Wherever you begin, you’re in the right place.”