Hello, my dear readers!
I usually begin recipe posts by picking the photo that makes my mouth water the most — the one that instantly inspires me. This time, though, I chose an image that reflects where I am right now: recovering, grateful, and slowly getting back on my feet after a long period of illness. This picture was taken during my second outing with Dedal a few weeks ago, and we were both over the moon to be outside again.
It’s also about time I properly introduced myself. My name is Paola van der Hulst. I’m a Dutch-Mexican food creator; gnom-gnom started while I was healing from an autoimmune episode two years ago. Back then I spent a lot of time in the kitchen, experimenting and learning, and creating the recipes you see here helped me through an intense period of life.
I’m based in Mexico City, though currently in Los Angeles for alternative treatment for a sciatic nerve injury. My life has taken me to many places, and all those experiences shaped how I cook. I grew up in Mexico City, finished high school in Connecticut, studied economics at the University of St Andrews in Scotland — where I taught myself to bake from cookbooks — worked in finance in London for three years, and later returned to Mexico City to design fine jewelry. Somewhere along that path, stress contributed to early signs of neuropathy and autoimmune issues.
Diet played a big role in my recovery. I had already eliminated gluten and experimented with paleo, but when I significantly reduced sugar and shifted toward a keto approach, I began to see real improvement. It wasn’t an overnight miracle, but over time my body started to heal and I felt stronger.
Part of my treatment included routine vitamin B12 injections. Unfortunately, one injection went wrong in June last year when a young doctor placed it too close to my sciatic nerve. That error damaged the outer structure of the nerve—its myelin sheath—and severely affected my mobility.
Doctors couldn’t promise I would regain full movement, which was devastating. Nerve injuries can be unpredictable, and the possibility of chronic pain loomed large. For roughly six months I spent most days in bed, working on patience and discovering podcasts to keep my mind busy. For the past eight months I’ve been rebuilding my ability to sit longer and walk again. Progress hasn’t been linear, but I’m steadily improving and celebrating every small victory.
This is why I’ve been less active on gnom-gnom this year. It’s been an emotional rollercoaster, and sharing food stories became a comforting outlet. Your messages and comments have brought a sense of normalcy and connection to my life during recovery, and for that I’m deeply grateful.
I can’t say thank you enough. Building this community of health-conscious food lovers has been one of the brightest parts of this journey. I never expected my kitchen experiments to resonate with so many people. Knowing that my recipes and stories matter to you has been incredibly humbling and motivating.
One lesson this experience has reinforced is the importance of presence and gratitude. Life is often ironic and unpredictable; what began as a difficult chapter has led to meaningful connections and creativity. I try to honor each day by doing my best and appreciating the simple fact that I’m here to take another step.
Good news: new recipes are on their way next week. I’m excited to get back into the kitchen and share what I’ve been testing while healing. In the meantime, thank you for sticking with me, for your kind messages, and for making gnom-gnom such a warm, supportive place.
Big kisses and endless gratitude,
Paola