Sydney singles looking for love over a homemade meal

When it comes to finding a match, Australian singles believe a person who can cook has the right ingredients, new research suggests.

Are you a Sydney single looking for love? It might be hiding in the kitchen.

New research suggests when it comes to finding a match, Australian singles believe a person who can cook has all the right ingredients.

The study shows 39 per cent of singles believe cooking is one of the top three most attractive traits in a potential partner.

Josh Dubais and Anachi Sariz bonded over their love of food and cooking.

While singles are looking for someone with a good personality who is physically attractive, 39 per cent said they would prefer someone who can cook over someone who is active or has a ­financially stable career.

Meanwhile, 42 per cent of those surveyed by HelloFresh and dating app Bumble believe a home-cooked meal beats calling or texting (38 per cent), flowers (29 per cent) and presents (21 per cent) as ways to win a date’s affection.

Foodie couple Josh Dubais, 41, and Anahi Sanz, 34, met online three years ago.

Ms Sanz, whose father is a chef, said she started talking to Mr Dubais because, although he had little on his profile, he listed cooking as an interest.

“I love cooking and it’s very important in my culture, so I thought I would make contact. And we had the longest first date ever,” she said.

“When you cook, you are giving someone your time, which is the most important thing.”

Nutrition and food expert Joel Feren believes food is important in our romantic lives because it evokes memories and feelings.

“A simple pasta can transport your date to Italy or the aroma of spices to far-off India,” he said.

“People have always used food to connect. Now more than ever.”

For those singles who aren’t the cooking kind, Dubais has some advice.

“Start simple. Your confidence will build when you get things right,” he said.

“I’m a person who likes to follow a recipe, while Anahi is more adventurous.”

Sanz says: “If you can’t cook, at least help out in the kitchen. Chop some vegetables or clean up.”