Artie: Taking Comfort in Home Cooked Meals
We could probably solve a lot of the country’s problems if we discussed them over chicken tortilla soup and margaritas. – Artie
We think Artie’s got something here – what can’t be resolved over homemade chicken tortilla soup and margaritas? We can’t think of a more comforting and delicious meal, especially if enjoyed with loved ones!
Whether Kitchen Hero Artie is cooking for his family or gathering his friends around the table, they can all be sure that his home cooked meals taste a whole lot better than take-out. That’s because good ol’ home cooking is made with love, care, and a passion for food and healthy eating – something we can definitely get behind. Read more about Artie’s Hero in the Kitchen story below.
Name: Artie White
Age: 34
City, State: Tallahassee, Florida
I cook for: my wife and myself usually, but I love to gather friends around the table too.
Outside of the kitchen I: play with my dogs and ride my bike.
If I had the President over for dinner, I would make: chicken tortilla soup and margaritas. We could probably solve a lot of the country’s problems if we discussed them over chicken tortilla soup and margaritas.
I cook because: I take comfort knowing that there are no unnecessary chemicals and additives in my food. Home cooked meals taste better than meals from fast food establishments or chain restaurants.
Favorite Cook Smarts meal so far: Cheesy Southwest Black Bean Tortilla Wraps
HOW DID YOU LEARN TO COOK?
A gradual process that began with watching my grandmother in the kitchen, then helping my mom in the kitchen, then experimenting in the kitchen on my own.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BIGGEST COOKING CHALLENGE?
Getting homemade bread to come out with the right texture and density.
HOW HAS YOUR COOKING ROUTINE CHANGED SINCE STARTING COOK SMARTS’ MEAL PLANS?
I was falling into a rut, cooking the same meals over and over again. Cook Smarts gives me a reason to cook new things.
“Cook Smarts gives me a reason to cook new things.”
Tell us about your proudest kitchen moment.
I roasted a duck for Thanksgiving and made a gravy with the pan drippings. Thanksgiving is better with duck fat gravy.
What are your tips for health and success in the kitchen?
Read the recipe all the way before beginning to cook. Do not think that the dish has to be perfect. If it doesn’t look perfect, call it “rustic” and learn from your mistakes. That is what the chefs on television do.
You’re so right, Artie. Even professional chefs make mistakes, and that’s all part of the fun of learning how to cook. Messes can become successes, too! Thanks for letting us be a part of your cooking journey and for keeping us motivated with your willingness to overcome cooking challenges. Hopefully we’ll get to enjoy an Artie-cooked meal of homemade bread, chicken tortilla soup, duck with duck fat gravy, and margaritas someday!
To join Artie and cook meals like his favorite Cheesy Southwest Black Bean Tortilla Wraps, check out our meal plan service. You can get started for free!
