Is our ability to cook instinctive/ in our genes (if that bit makes sense)?

I don't think it's a gene thing, it's more of your roots or how your were raised and what you were taught. Example, you watched your mama or granny cook, maybe we're allowed to help etc. That sticks with you, memories and the love you feel when you make food.

Probably not or more people wouldn't burn water.

Cooking probably became part of human existence after fire was discovered and harnessed. Prior to that time cooking as we know it could not have existed. No, it is not instinctive.

A kid left in the forest wouldn't know how to cook and he eats only raw food.

Intellectually brilliant philosophers can only grasp this. Others should depend on a guide or inquire from the college professor.

No.

I lack both - that instinct and that gene.

Thank God I live in the present time and not during the black and white era. I would starve to death.