My mom's side of the family is what I would call "food-centric". She grew up on a farm in the Panhandle of Texas, so visiting my grandmother at my aunt and uncle's house growing up, there was a constant buffet of the freshest produce, and simply prepared foods of unimaginable proportions. Something was always being cooked or canned, peeled or shelled, baked or blanched. And every occasion warranted a spread. Graduations, births, visits, weddings, funerals... especially funerals!
I picked up my love of cooking from my mom and the women in her family. And then later, from good friends who equally enjoyed cooking and good food. The few friends I have who are actual chefs and restaurant owners, have just fanned the flames even more over the years. — However, I must admit, it's more than just the food. 99% of it is the company it's shared with.
- What is the strangest food you have ever eaten?
- A tiny pickled crab at a sushi bar in Baltimore. I don't recommend them!
- What do you cook when home alone?
- I make a lot of what I call "Kitchen Sink Salads".
- Your most treasured kitchen possession:
- My mother's rolling pin and a big stoneware turkey platter that was my grandparents.
- The ideal number of guests for a dinner party is:
- 4-8. Easy for everyone to feel at home.
