When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
After moving into my first apartment I gradually began cooking for myself. I especially enjoyed baking, anything from cakes to cookies. When I went vegan 4 years ago I developed a whole new sense for cooking, started experimenting with different ingredients and discoverd a deep love for any kind of vegetable. I think one of the first things I tried out (and still bake a lot) was an american cheesecake.
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
The kitchen is my favourite room in my apartment. It's a little bit too dark and not very modern, but I like how warm and friendly it is. It's basically crammed with tools, dishes and food from floor to ceiling. I usually try to clean up while cooking, to minimise the mess, but whenever I'm experimenting with new recipes the whole place is chaotic. I don't mind, though.
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
It's all about practise basically. Use recipes more for inspiration and be brave enough to not follow them too closely. Always use high quality products and organic, seasonal vegetables and fruit, you will taste the difference and it's much more fun to cook with them. Also keep in mind that baking demands a higher technical understanding, mistakes are often not as easily undone and results are better in the beginning. In the end it's all about fun, though, so just do what you love and don't give up!
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
Could I just invite the whole Parks and Recreation Cast? Hence the blog name by the way. Maybe we could have a nice Galentine's Day dinner (let's include the boys for once) with a flavourful pumpkin soup, my beet gnocchi with walnut parmesan as a main course and of course rich and sweet waffles with hot cherries for dessert. It must be simple enough, since I can't be expected to spend my time in the kitchen and not with Amy.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
Before I went vegan I really enjoyed knitting, but it's hard to find nice synthetic wool. In the future I would love to learn how to make my own pottery. Whenever I have a little bit of free time right now I really enjoy reading and catching up with numerous tv shows or go for a walk with my part-time dog. Nature is awesome!
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
http://deliciouslyella.com/
http://minimalistbaker.com/
http://www.greenkitchenstories.com/
Just to name a few. There are so many great blogs and new ones emerging every day!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Just thank you for the interest in my creations and my blog and to everyone who recreates my recipes. I love to hear your feedback and responses and I greatly enjoy talking to you all! Come over to my blog and say hi!
Cakes
Vegetarian
