Me [29 F] with my SO [29 M] of 6 years, he keeps making "fancy" food, how to tactfully stop him ?

Put yourself in his shoes. Times are changing; but, in general, it isn't drilled into boy's heads that they will grow up carrying the domestic responsibilities of the household. So, when men take up cooking; it's often later in life and with the spirit of sport or art. They want to create or do something challenging and interesting. Even when taught how to cook (by a parental figure) or when they go to culinary school, something (maybe the testosterone?) brings out the need for a challenge and for recognition.

Think about why it is that the BBQ grill is, generally, a man's domain and why the most outrageous celebrity chefs are mostly men. I've been in the hospitality business all of my life, and have met some amazing cooks of both genders; yet have only met one or two female "chefs" (and even they didn't insist upon the title as many men did). It's not a sexist statement, just the nature of the difference in our biology and culture.

Now, your SO finds himself stuck at home all day, and is such a person who understands the importance of sharing household duties (Read those posts about all of the lazy, mooching manchildren for some perspective); and has taken up the challenge of learning how to cook. Much to your chagrin, he has thrown himself into it with too much gusto.

Keep in mind that, even though he is home, he is still (presumably) working. I have male friends who complain about what terrible cooks their wives are, and how they have to make their own meals most of the time. I remind them that their wives work and take care of the children, or all of the housework, and that day to day cooking is pure drudgery for many. He is making time to create something to feed you and please you. You could do a lot worse!

Of course, the perspective won't solve your problem. The other half of the equation is that you need to work on communication. Don't be afraid of hurting his feelings, and stop being the victim. Feeling sorry for yourself and secretly eating fast food are victim behaviors. Get a book on constructive criticism and practice how to give him helpful feedback on his meals. Encourage him to give feedback on your cooking, as well.

Instead of feeling victimized, come up with a proactive plan. Make your favorite meals over the weekend. Make double and freeze half. Then, split up the cooking duties. Take three nights per week and do things like thaw out one of your frozen lasagnas or make a pizza. I presume that he may be concerned about how healthy your eating choices are; so why not take up cooking together and come up with healthy, tasty, alternatives to your favorite foods? My husband has taken up cooking, and we make some amazing meals together. It's a great bonding experience.

Bargaining goes a long way, too. Make a deal that you will take on more of the cooking duties in exchange for something that he isn't currently doing. Say, you cook Monday, Wednesday and Fridays and he does the laundry or the shopping.

/r/relationships Thread