Dishing with... She worked as a private chef briefly, but her bubbly personality, good looks and easy-going charm were the perfect blend for television. She hosted Daisy Cooks! on PBS before teaming up with Rachael Ray’s production company to enhance the Latin flavors of the Food Network with Viva Daisy! Like her show, Daisy’s new cookbook, Daisy: Morning, Noon and Night (Atria Books, $30), encourages families to prepare and eat meals together, and provides the tools they’ll need – simple, delicious recipes with a dash of Daisy’s witty enthusiasm and a sprinkle of her effortless charm – to feel comfortable adding authentic Latin cuisine to their repertoire. Sections move seamlessly through Latin America with recipes for an array of occasions, from sweet and savory morning fare (Peruvian breakfast tamales filled with raisins and olives) to noontime meals and snacks (braised eggplant with coconut milk from the Dominican Republic) to family dinners, barbecues, cocktail parties, and festive dishes (pernil, a Puerto Rican roast pork shoulder perfect for the holidays). While you will find classics like soft tacos and chicken enchiladas, most of the recipes will be less familiar, and everything I’ve made so far has been a hit. Tips on ingredients and easy-to-follow photos of techniques make the book great for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs. With Cinco de Mayo just days away, I encourage anyone who loves Latin cuisine to pick up a copy of Daisy: Morning, Noon and Night, gather friends and family around the kitchen, and get cooking. Fun Fact: Thanks to her kids, Daisy likes to play video games. She considers herself a role-playing game geek and is especially fond of Lord of the Rings. (“My husband walks into my office and says, ‘Are you killing cows again?’”) How would you describe your food? What is the last thing you cooked for yourself? What’s your favorite childhood food memory? Something in your fridge or freezer that would surprise people? An ingredient you couldn’t live without? What was your worst kitchen experience? What’s the biggest misconception about Latin food? For more information about Daisy Martinez, visit www.daisymartinez.com. |
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