The New York Times Cooking app is testing a new AI feature that allows users to modify recipes by suggesting ingredient substitutions and adjusting cooking steps. Senior editor Genevieve Ko announced the tool on Friday, noting it can scale portions and recommend alternatives for items like kale or specific kitchen equipment. For instance, the system advised replacing kale with baby spinach by suggesting the addition of the leafy green during a later step to account for its faster wilting rate. This functionality aims to help cooks adapt standard recipes to their current inventory or dietary needs without manual calculation.
The initiative matters because it shifts the burden of recipe adaptation from the user to an automated assistant, potentially reducing food waste and frustration. However, the feature remains a test rather than a permanent change to the platform’s core functionality. Users have expressed mixed reactions, with some valuing the convenience while others worry about the reliability of automated culinary advice. The tool currently operates within the app’s existing interface and does not alter account settings or privacy protocols.
* Feature is currently in a testing phase
* Adjustments include ingredient swaps and portion scaling
* No changes to user accounts or privacy data
