Culinarygypsy

The love of and preparing of great food is a celebration of life. And like life it is a journey, an all-encompassing experience; it is a journey of discovery. Over the years and in many different counties, after being involved directly and indirectly with cooking and working with people of all races and cultures, watching them braise, sauté, mince, chop, emulsify, knead, blend, pound, caramelize, and plate their way through their shifts, I have absorbed this magic blend of traditions and culinary magic that transcends all cultures. It is no wonder that the best cuisines have always been cooked by people who were not trying to impress or win awards but who are merely trying to survive and feed a family with the natural seasonal products that are available to them and understand the source and nature of the produce. Simplicity in cooking as in art is the ultimate challenge. A balance of flavors and textures with the principals of opposites (ying /yang) crispy with soft, sweet with sour, bland with spicy that together with proper cooking techniques to create a harmonious and delicious dish. In the end It’s the uncomplicated foods that are the most fantastic foods. It is food that is not merely cooked but transformed from its pristine natural state, not altered but elevated to its fullest potential. The dishes we prepare and serve belong to no one and every one. We are all inspired by our life experiences and what is around us. The cultures we are exposed to and the ingredients that are available. Cooking is as influenced by all of this as is everything else we do. These are not “creations” It’s just cooking Nothing more, nothing less!