I've been dealing with the exact same issue, Jwolf. What to do with all this free time I now have? It used to be easy. I just drank, and the evening took care of itself. But now that I'm trying to stay sober (I've got nine days so far), it feels as if there's nothing to do. Drinking was my main activity every evening. Everything else was secondary.
I've been doing a lot of cooking, same as you. As, just as you said, it seems to be more expensive than drinking (not to mention weight gain). But no matter how bad the cravings at night are, the sense of relief at waking up sober and having gone one more day without booze is priceless. Like everyone else hear has said (advice I need to take for myself) things are going to take time.
Stay positive and good luck.