When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
As a kid I always loved helping around in the kitchen and the love for cooking just stayed there as I grew up. The first recipe I tried was most likely pancakes, followed closely by basic sugar cookies - for those I usually enlisted the help of my little sister (and Chirpy team member) Zellie.
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
Cody and I live in a teeny tiny apartment and our kitchen is really narrow and kind of awkward, but we make it work. Having worked in professional kitchens means that I've developed a "clean-as-you-go" habit, so even with the limited counter space, we get things done pretty smoothly. The photography gets done in the living room though!
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
I don't think there's such a thing as somebody that can't cook. Everybody can cook, you just have to pick up a spatula and begin! Start with simple, easy recipes and try more complex things as your culinary confidence grows. Before too long, you'll find yourself making adjustments and substitutions or even conjuring up your very own recipes.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
Bill Nighy, Dr. Brian Weiss, Kristen Wiig, Meryl Streep and of course Steven Tyler. To be honest, I think I'd probably order pizza and enjoy their company instead of slaving away in the kitchen lol.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
I love drawing and painting and should really try to make more time for it. I also love walking/biking trails, tennis and reading.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
I read a million different food blogs, but one that stands out most is Half Baked Harvest. I love Tieghan's photography and crazy flavor combinations.