Notes from the kitchen

 

recipe experiments

Tweaks I've tried while cooking
  • Added a pinch of smoked paprika to the buñuelos—flavor instantly elevated.

  • Let the marry-me chicken orzo rest five minutes before serving—creamy perfection.

  • Tried avocado slices on Mexican steak tacos—unexpectedly luxurious.

  • Drizzled truffle oil over crispy oven potatoes—next-level indulgence.

  • Swapped regular butter for ghee in a pasta sauce—rich and nutty surprise.

  • Toasted cumin before grinding for a subtle, smoky aroma in the stew.

  • Added lime zest to chocolate dessert—bright and irresistible.

  • Let bread dough rise an extra 30 minutes—fluffier than ever.

  • Roasted cherry tomatoes for the sauce—sweetness pops beautifully.

  • Sprinkled sea salt on caramelized onions—flavor contrast magic.

  • Infused olive oil with rosemary—perfect for dipping or drizzling.

  • Used coconut milk in curry—smooth texture, slightly tropical twist.

  • Grilled pineapple before salsa—sweet-savory harmony unlocked.

  • Marinated steak in coffee—deep, rich flavor without bitterness.

  • Added a touch of honey to tomato sauce—balances acidity naturally.

  • Sear chicken skin on high heat first—crispy golden perfection.

  • Blended fresh herbs into butter—instant gourmet upgrade.

  • Used smoked sea salt on roasted vegetables—adds subtle complexity.

  • Let dough rest overnight in fridge—develops richer flavor.

  • Topped creamy soups with a swirl of flavored oil—instant restaurant vibes.

Sashimi

Sushi Rolls

Noodles

Nigiri

Flavor Pairing Thoughts

Colombian Coffee +
Chocolate +
Chorizo +
Beet +
Yuzu + 
Panela =
Chili =
Figs = 
Goat Cheese =
White Chocolate =
Smooth & warming
Spicy-sweet kick
Savory, fruity
Earthy, creamy
Bright & silky

Travel Food Notes

New Orleans

You can hear jazz and taste it in the beignets

Lisbon

The sea breeze tastes like salt in the pastel de nata

Bangkok

Spice dances on your tongue with every street pad thai

Istanbul

Simit on the Bosphorus is breakfast poetry

Havana

The sweetness of a mango tastes like sun-soaked afternoons

Buenos Aires

Empanadas carry the warmth of the people

Seoul

Kimchi ferments stories in every bite

New Delhi

Chaai on the streets warms more than your hands

Naples

Pizza straight from the oven tastes like passion

San Sebastián

Pintxos are tiny bites of celebration

Cape Town

Brraai smoke carries laughter and friendship

Mood & Inspiration

“Every spice tells a story waiting to be tasted.”
“Cooking is the art of turning love into flavors.”
“A simmering pot can carry more memories than a photograph.”
“Food is the quiet conversation between hearts.”
“Meals are the bookmarks of our lives.”
“Savoring a meal is savoring a moment.”
“Recipes are stories written with taste.”
“A shared table is a bridge between souls.”

 

Let these be some quotes that remind you why food opens the doors for new experiences, connections, and opportunities. 

Don’t let them slide!