Flattery

At some point recipes become irrelevant to the gifted cook. There is a pivotal moment where complete mastery of the kitchen transcends the age-old reliance on the shackles of a traditional recipe. At this climax--a spontaneous combustion of flavor and appetite--the true talent rises to the surface, like the cream in fresh milk. 

What's that? You think I'm basking in my own triumph? 

You flatter me.