I had the privilege of doing a short interview with David Ruggerio who is known as a Super Chef and has recently branched out to authoring fiction. You can find out more about him in the bio at the end of the interview.

Interview about Quarantine Living with David Ruggerio

Me: For someone who has always wanted to get better at cooking, a stay at home order or being quarantined is the perfect time to practice. What resources or tips do you have for that person?

David: Often a person cooks things they love better than a meat, fish or vegetable they don’t adore. There is an endless supply of recipes on the internet. Choose a recipe that would not be your first choice that is somewhat involved. Take your time and perfect it, this will improve your skills.

Me: What if you don’t have something you need for a recipe and you can’t get out to get it? Or the store is out of it? Are there substitutions for the most common ingredients: eggs, milk or sugar?

David: When we are talking about baking, the answer is simple, no. You are better off choosing another baking recipe that you have all the ingredients. When we are talking about savory recipes, substitutions are endless, and you can have great fun interchanging ingredients as you experiment.

Me: I like to let my kids help me out in the kitchen sometimes so they can start to learn the basics. What type of food or recipe do you recommend making with kids if they are new to cooking? What about a more elaborate dish for more experienced young cooks to learn?

David: When we are speaking of very young children, baking recipes that need hands are best, lets say most types of cookies. When we speak of older children, recipes that need to be put together, such as a roast that have the vegetables and potatoes in the pan with the meat or fish are the best chances for interaction and a successful recipe. No matter what the age, children want to have fun, but also want a successful recipe.

Me: Besides cooking, what else would you recommend someone who is bored and doesn’t know what to do with their time try?

David: It is spring, there is nothing better than planting a garden, whether it is seeds or small plants. We must maintain distance, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get into the fresh air and plant a pot, a corner of your yard, or a simple tin can on your kitchen windowsill. Great fun and anyone can do!

Me: What is your best cooking tip for the average home cook?

David: Pick a recipe that seems interesting to you, and then religiously follow the instructions before you decide to change it. The chef or cook who created it deserves the respect from you to try and discover their finished dish. Also, relax and enjoy, cooking is an amazing event, and as you cook more and more, you will find yourself dazzling your friends and family. Happy Cooking!

Image from Wikipedia

David Ruggerio Bio: