Why I cook

I come from an Italian-American family. I learned early on that eating is a way for people to connect. Cooking is a way to say, “You are important. I care about you. I want you to enjoy this meal and our time together.”

I also come from an artistic family. Some food is BEAUTIFUL. The way it looks, it smells, it tastes, the texture on your tongue. Beauty in edible form.

Good food brings people together. It can hold you in place while simultaneously transporting a group of people to another world. I have cooked a number of Thai menus, before this cuisine was ever present.

When I was a girl, I watched Julia Child on television. I thought her awkwardness and lack of pretension were funny. I found her cooking to be mesmerizing. I also watched Graham Kerr, The Galloping Gourmet and loved Jeff Smith’s books.

Even though I started cooking early, it took many many years to become a good home chef. I still have much to learn. But honestly, I can turn it out for guests. I can create a food experience for many that is unlike the best restaurant experience.

Is this because I am fine restaurant quality chef? No, of course not. At my best from a technical standpoint, I am an excellent home cook.

What I aspire to provide my friends and family is my communication of love in food form. I try to provide healthy and tasty food in a warm atmosphere.

Also, I like to eat.

That is why I cook.