Fall has officially arrived in the Nonahood – well, maybe not the weather so much, but pumpkin season is here. I find that most people either love or hate pumpkin. Very few times do I find someone in the middle. I’ll admit, I was a pumpkin hater for many years. Once I became pregnant with my son a few years back, I instantly became a pumpkin lover. I craved all things pumpkin, … [Read more...]
From Scratch: Life of a Cook and What It Means to Be a Chef
I might just be a glutton for punishment. The same can be said for anyone who chooses to spend 10-plus years behind the line. It is hot, labor intensive, the hours are long, and the pay is terrible. Too many times have I seen the bright-eyed, starry dreamer fresh out of culinary school walk into their first real kitchen ready to be the next Thomas Keller, and within the week … [Read more...]
Can you make the Best Pie in Lake Nona?
As part of the 2nd Annual Great American Block Party in Lake Nona, guests are offered the chance to enter a Pie Baking Contest. The judging will be handled by executive Chefs Bryan Thoman and Jason Bergeron of Canvas and Chroma. We can't think of a sweeter way to celebrate Independence Day! Prizes include the following: 1st place: $75 Gift Card to Canvas … [Read more...]
Katie’s Cucina: White Chocolate Halloween Candy Bark
Use up your leftover Halloween candy and make my easy recipe for White Chocolate Halloween Candy Bark for your family and friends. What do you do with the bags and bags of leftover candy your children get after a night full of trick or treating? Of course, you could hide in a closet and eat it all, or you could whip up a batch of white chocolate Halloween candy bark. It’s … [Read more...]
Katie’s Cucina: Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham
Did you know you could cook a ham in the slow cooker? Yes, it’s true, and I promise you, it will come out so juicy and tender you will never cook your holiday ham any other way. The key to cooking ham in the slow cooker is using a semi-boneless smoked half ham. Make sure it’s a whole ham and not a pre-sliced spiral cut ham. Trust me, if you use a pre-sliced ham it will be … [Read more...]