thegourmetgirl

about me

I am a 36 year old Chef from Scottsdale, Arizona. I am very adventurous when it comes to food....I will try anything once, maybe twice if I think I need to give it another go.

I attended Scottsdale Culinary Institute in the early 90's....and later Arizona State University....but I pride myself that I am mostly self taught, which I feel is crucial to being a good cook (testing and trying because you WANT to, not because you're in school and you HAVE to!)

All of my recipes are tested and work....I am always open for feedback and any modifications that you have tried out with my recipes as a base. I encourage you to use my recipes as just that....a base....then make them your own !

I would LOVE to hear from any of you, fellow chefs, foodies, beloved culinary friends of mine. Please ask me questions if you have any about my recipes....or any challenges. I'm always eager to help out !

Bon Appetit and remember what Gusteau from Ratatouille said...."ANYONE CAN COOK !"

Favorite Foods:

I'm Mexican so obviously that's a given....I LOVE to cook Mexican foods and do that without looking at a recipe for most things.

I really to marinade meat and toss it on the grill. I live in Arizona so we have many wonderful grilling seasons, even our winters are mild enough to pitch open the grill and smoke a brisket. One of my favorite treats is using cedar planks to cook fish on. Fish can be very intimidating to grill....it breaks up so easily....burns easily....but the cedar planks cook the fish perfectly.

As for herbs, right now I'm on a herbs de provence kick. I am passionate about lavender....and try to add this lovely, fragrant herb in as many things as I can. It's very underrated and underused.

I will give anything a go....although I admit, I have areas of opportunity when it comes to Mediterranean & Asian foods. Many ethnic foods are a challenge because of the extent of ingredients and the taste has to be spot on....but I will try anything once....or twice !

www.thegourmetgirl.net