Most Brits now lean on AI in the kitchen to boost cooking confidence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is officially taking over Britain's kitchens - with two-thirds of us using new technology to help with food-related tasks.

According to new research, 38% use AI for meal inspiration, while 30% use it to help turn leftovers into meals. An astonishing 76% say that the tech now reduces the mental effort involved in cooking, signalling a shift from novelty to necessity.

The reasons behind the move are personal as well as technological. The study, commissioned by Siemens Home Appliances, reveals that six in ten Brits (60%) struggle at least once a week to decide what to cook, and one in five (20%) face that dilemma daily.

Despite the number of recipes available online, 45% admit they rotate just four to five dishes, while 42% describe weekday cooking as "routine".

For many, the biggest barrier isn't ability, it's mental load, with 34% saying deciding what to cook is the most stressful part of preparing a meal. This may explain the increasing popularity of AI as a kitchen tool, as, unlike conventional searches, it can help with decision-making and getting the most out of the ingredients we have at home by using a simple query.

A striking 85% also say the price of ingredients influences what they cook, while nearly a quarter (24%) avoid trying new recipes for fear of wasting food.

To address this shift, Siemens has hosted Chef's TAIble, at the London Showroom, an intimate AI-powered dining experience designed to show how smart appliances and AI can work together in practice.

At the event, guests selected ingredients before AI generated a bespoke four-course menu in real time. The menu was then brought to life by chef Jozef Youssef using Siemens' smart appliances, including precision fryingSensor technology designed to maintain consistent temperatures and remove guesswork from cooking.

At Chef's TAIble, broadcaster and presenter Clara Amfo led a discussion around cooking confidence, decision fatigue and the role of technology in modern kitchens.

Clara said, "Generally speaking, I don't think people dislike cooking but I do think that with the busy nature of life and what we all juggle, when it comes to wanting to nourish your body with a delicious meal, we can often become exhausted by the decisions around what to eat and how to cook it.

"I've absolutely been there, opening the fridge, seeing random foods, and having my mind do a blank as to what I can make.

"That's why I appreciate the starting point that smart technology gives you, by taking away that pressure and letting you focus on enjoying the process and I'm sure it will improve my infamously bad cooking skills!"

A Siemens spokesperson added, "As AI becomes part of everyday life, we see it working alongside smart technology to simplify decisions and build confidence in cooking. The future kitchen isn't about replacing the cook; it's about empowering them."

You can find out more about Siemens' smart appliances and Home Connect app here: https://www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com/