The New York Times Cooking app tests AI recipe modifications

The New York Times is testing a new AI feature for its Cooking app that helps users to modify recipes, and it has sparked some drama among users ^[1]. NYT Cooking senior editor Genevieve Ko announced the feature, which can be used to recommend substitutions for ingredients and cooking equipment, scale recipes to any number of servings, and “generally make our recipes work for what a cook needs at that moment” ^[1].

Key facts * The NYT Cooking app is testing AI recipe modifications to help users customise meals ^[1]. * The feature can recommend ingredient substitutions and adjust recipes for different pans and tools ^[1]. * Customized recipes created with the AI are private and cannot be published or shared through the app ^[1]. * The tool is currently available to all Cooking subscribers on the iOS app ^[1].

How does the AI modification feature work? The NYT Cooking app feature provides specific advice based on ingredient properties, such as advising that baby spinach should be added later in a recipe because it wilts faster than kale ^[1]. Genevieve Ko stated that the tool can also change recipes to accommodate different pans and tools ^[1].

Who can use it and when? The AI modification feature is being rolled out gradually while The New York Times monitors its performance ^[1]. It is currently available to all Cooking subscribers on the iOS app, with broader availability expected soon ^[1].

What is the user feedback on the new tool? Some NYT readers have expressed concerns regarding the environmental impact of widespread AI adoption and the general impact on user experience ^[1]. While some users described the inclusion of an AI mandate as disappointing, NYT spokesperson Jordan Cohen stated that many members of the Cooking community are reporting good results ^[1].