Cooking Like a Pro

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Hey Food Fans!
This is our best episode yet. We're thrilled to bring you a fresh episode of "Cooking Like a Pro" - the podcast where we explore all things food with a dash of nostalgia and a sprinkle of culinary wisdom. Hosted by the ever-lively Chef Cal and joined by Mrs. Chef, his wife Christa DeMercurio, this episode is a delightful blend of home-cooked memories and practical kitchen tips that'll inspire your next meal.

• Growing and using beef steak and heirloom tomatoes for the perfect BLT sandwich.
• Exploring the history and modern preparation of beef stroganoff.
• Creative ways to use leftover meatloaf for manicotti bolognese.
• Tips for preparing crudités and the importance of vegetable texture.
• Culinary uses of beer in recipes like beer batter and beer cheddar soup and Guinness muffins.

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

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Text Christa!

Join us in this episode as we dive into the essentials of food safety, organic certifications, and practical cooking tips. Discover how to make healthy food choices while minimizing waste and experimenting in the kitchen.

• Importance of knowing your food sources and contamination concerns
• Practical advice for reducing food waste and maintaining produce quality
• Tips for safe crock pot usage
• Creative cooking experimentation
• Successful way to learning wine varietals

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

Join Chef Cal and Christa as they dive into a variety of culinary topics, focusing on flavor enhancement and cooking techniques. This episode touches on everything from seasonal ingredients to mindful eating, providing valuable insights for home chefs.

• How to preserve and use concentrated roast drippings, or "liquid gold"
• Seasonal delights: a taste test of three different pluots
• Tips on deep frying: maintaining oil temperature and seasoning timing
• The importance of mindful eating and portion control

Stay tuned for practical tips and fun kitchen experiments in this episode of "Cooking Like a Pro"!

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

Join Chef Cal and Christa for another insightful episode of "Cooking like a Pro," where they dive into eggplant recipes, kitchen safety tips, and sauce making basics. Stay tuned for lively discussion and practical cooking advice to enhance your kitchen skills.

• Eggplant preparation methods 
• Importance of oil temperature and its impact on cooking
• Insights into various sauces and their modifications
• Food safety practices to avoid cross-contamination
• Chef Cal's nostalgic culinary stories with Lobster Tales

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

Join us for an enlightening discussion on food, health, and sustainability in this latest podcast episode. Special guest Chef Sadie Krueger shares her culinary insights and supports local farmers, “The best thing we can do is shop local, organic, know your farmers, know where your food’s coming from.”

• Empowering youth through culinary education, building a life skill
• Insights on locally sourced vs. commercial eggs and their nutritional value
• Remembering French Chef Michel Guérard, his ratatouille known Confit Byaldi, and nouvelle cuisine 
• Innovative, healthier dessert options like chocolate avocado pudding
• The impact of processed food additives on health and longevity
• Learn the acronym of NEWSTART
• The importance of using fresh, unprocessed foods for a healthier lifestyle
• For food and wine adventures, visit Greystone in St. Helena (Napa, CA):
  https://www.ciafoodies.com/cia-greystone/

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

We're back with a brand-new episode of our podcast and this one is bursting with flavor and fun! Join Chef Cal and Christa as they delve into the world of unique culinary experiences in food and wine. 

• Discovering a crispy melon called a Hami
• Comparison between homemade and store-bought butternut squash soup
• Cal's hunting family background for eclectic meats
• Par cooking vegetables and finishing in the oven for roasted flavor
• Paso Robles as a food and wine destination

00:00 Excited chat about food, reach out online.

04:27 Homemade soup saves money and tastes better.

08:33 Tracking fruit origin and impact of climate.

11:50 Father's upbringing in scarcity and hunting food.

15:23 Caring for wild meat is crucial for taste.

18:37 Grandpa's canyon, hunting, and cooking memories.

21:07 Mom's stew was tough, even dog refused.

24:02 Cook vegetables carefully to preserve nutritional value.

26:36 Preserve vegetable flavor by quick cooking and shocking.

31:43 Test oil heat before adding vegetables carefully.

34:15 Tips for cooking vegetables evenly and perfectly.

37:17 Zinfandels from Paso Robles are preferred.

41:07 Exceptional wine, enjoyable with great food pairings.

42:54 Elevate wine experience with barbecue duck.

46:25 Embrace life, savor food, enjoy every moment.

48:38 Grateful for your time, see you soon!

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

Ready to get cooking, sipping, and savoring? Welcome to another episode of "Cooking like a Pro" with Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio. Tune in for expert cooking tips, delicious recipes, and insightful culinary discussions.

Did you know that pumpkin pie soup exists? It’s a unique twist that Chef Cal recommends for those leftover pumpkins. Who knew those autumn vibes could be captured in a savory soup!

1. Chicken in Clam Juice: Discover how marinating chicken in clam juice can transform it into a mock abalone dish – it's all about that savory twist!
2. Lobster & Shrimp Tips: Learn key differences among shrimp sizes, and why cold water lobsters from places like Maine and Alaska make all the difference in your seafood dishes.
3. Perfect Pork Chops on the Grill: Say goodbye to dry pork chops! Cal breaks down the ideal grilling process and the importance of a direct response thermometer.
4. Wine Wisdom: Step up your wine game with tips on pairing Sauvignon Blanc with the right dishes, and why it’s perfectly okay to chill your glass on a hot day.

Stay delicious, friends! 

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

On today's episode, Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio take you on a tasty journey, revealing their secrets for making cooking a delightful experience. In this episode, we're exploring the versatility of spaghetti squash, mastering the art of roasting meat, and finding the perfect wine pairings to elevate your meals. Trust us, you don't want to miss it!

TODAY'S FEATURED RECIPE: How to Cook Butternut Squash

Here are **5 keys** you'll learn from this episode:

1. **Spaghetti Squash Magic**: Discover multiple ways to prepare and utilize spaghetti squash as a delicious, low-carb alternative to pasta. Think piccata style!

2. **Meat Roasting Tips**: From prime rib to turkey, learn the essentials of searing, seasoning, and achieving the perfect tenderness with a dry rub.

3. **Wine Selection Savvy**: Dive into the fascinating world of the Cabernet wine varietal and learn how tannins and aging affect flavor.

4. **Kitchen Bonding Benefits**: Understand the importance of cooking together and the magic it creates in family relationships. Plus, get practical advice on communication and organization in the kitchen.

5. **Advanced Meal Prep**: Get tips on efficient grocery shopping, meal prepping, and the art of utilizing leftovers to minimize waste.

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

In this episode of Cooking Like a Pro, Chef Cal and Christa dive into a variety of culinary topics, from creamy sauces to breakfast for dinner. Join them as they share their passion for cooking and offer tips and insights for home cooks.

- Learn how to make a creamy sauce using cream and vinegar without breaking the sauce

- Discover the innovative cooking style of the late chef Charlie Trotter

- Explore the characteristics and flavor profile of the white wine varietal Viognier

- Get tips on selecting ripe melons at farmers markets and the benefits of buying local

- Find out how to make a impressive halibut dish with pie pastry and a mushroom duxelle

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Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE

Text Christa!

Welcome to another episode of Cooking Like a Pro with Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio! Dive in as we explore the distinctions and delights of cooking techniques, spicy food tips, and wine pairing insights.

*** Differences between char grilling and griddling, and their impact on flavor.

*** How to counteract spicy food effectively.

*** Cooking tips for shishito peppers and their health benefits.

*** The importance of learning and practicing cooking skills for meal planning.

*** Insider wine knowledge: tasting, pairing, and aerating tips.

Don't miss out on our practical cooking advice and engaging food discussions!

Let's Connect!

I'm Christa DeMercurio. I started as a stay-at-home mom who relied on cookbooks, measuring everything and following recipes to the letter. But watching my chef husband move effortlessly in the kitchen, I knew there had to be a better way.

So, I learned—studying his techniques, practicing his methods, and mastering the strategies that keep professional kitchens running smoothly. Over time, I became confident, capable, and free from recipes controlling my cooking. 

I’m here to help you do the same. On Cooking Like a Pro, together we share everything you need to cook with confidence, save time and money, and actually enjoy being in the kitchen—without the stress and frustration.
P.S. I still reference cookbooks and internet recipes too! 

❤️Culinarily Yours, Christa DeMercurio (Mrs. Chef) 

Email: [email protected] 

Website

Text Me!

Leave a Voicemail

📸 INSTAGRAM | 📺YOUTUBE