When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
Ever since I was little I've loved food and cooking. When I was about 6 years old I begged for an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas. First recipe that I can recall making was a batch of brownies in that oven. And by batch I mean a little bowl that made 4 mini brownies. It was amazing.
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
Teeny tiny! I have pretty much every IKEA storage option to organize it all. Although it might be small, It has a beautiful view of the Puget Sound and my favorite thing about my kitchen is...gas range! Renting an apartment usually results in an electric stove but I got lucky :-) I stay organized while cooking by cleaning as I go. Learned early on during my time at Le Cordon Bleu that if you don't, it just a complete disaster afterwards. Take a little extra time and wash that bowl rather than leaving it on the counter, trust me!
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
Take it easy! Don't over do it. Basically go back to the basics. For example, don't go to crazy with seasoning, stick to salt, pepper, maybe garlic. If it tastes just "okay", add another dash of salt before adding any more curry powder or ground coriander. Usually a little salt will bring out the flavors all on its own without overpowering the dish.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
Julia Child. Beef Bourguignon. Done.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
I actually do a little knitting! Hobbies wise, other than everything food related, I love to read. Fantasy and Science Fiction. I'm also huge movie buff, both in theaters and renting, and I love playing video games.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
Pinch of Yum, Half Baked Harvest, Love and Lemons, Sally's Baking Addiction, Gimme Some Oven, and Damn Delicious are a few of my faves.
Cakes
Dessert
