Amy Sherman is the innovative creative force behind Cooking with Amy, a food blog that is dedicated to sharing original recipes, reviews, commentary, news and culinary travel information.  Between updating her blog Amy finds time to write and publish cookbooks, develop new and incredible recipes and also write for various magazines.

* Sweet or Savory?

Both! But in general I favor savory.

* Which ingredient(s) do you use the most?

Hmm, that’s a tough one, probably some staple item like onions or canned tomatoes. Maybe noodles? In terms of fresh produce, this Winter we are eating a lot of Tuscan kale. I seem to buy it every week.

* What’s your favorite cooking smell?

Bacon and or caramelized onions. Chocolate brownies are pretty good too!

* What is your most favorite cooking sound?

Sizzle! In part because it tells you your pan is hot and primed for cooking.

* In the kitchen, what’s your most treasured possession?

I have a wooden spoon I really love because it is well-worn and reminds me of my mother’s cooking. It’s a sentimental thing. But I love my gadgets, lately the Vita-Mix.

* What is a “faux pas” in your kitchen?

Distracting me. I need to focus on what I’m doing.

* Is there a food you will not eat?

I keep trying natto and tripe but neither taste good to me.

* What food is your guilty pleasure?

No such thing!

* Have you ever changed how you feel towards a food?

Nope. I’ve always been very food-focused.

* If you could prepare a dinner for anyone, who would it be?

My husband. I know it’s corny but he is so appreciative and thinks I’m a great cook! He routinely says: “This is the best thing you’ve ever cooked!”

* If you could choose a living or historical cook to prepare a meal for you, who would it be?

Jacques Pepin. I had dinner with him once, but he didn’t cook it.

* Which food website/ or blog would you die without?

Epicurious. It’s just the best for recipes not to mention great articles.

* What is your favorite food related word?

Luscious. I probably overuse it.

* What is your favorite food shopping experience?

Visiting markets when I travel—it could be a supermarket or a farmer’s market in another city or country. I learn a lot by seeing what people buy in other places, plus I often discover some cool new thing I haven’t seen before.

* If you could move, which country would you move to for the food?

I’ve already lived in Italy for the food, but having been there twice, I think I would go to Japan next.

* What’s the dress code in the kitchen when you cook?

Whatever I have on, usually no apron though.

* What would you request on the menu if it was your last supper?

Maybe a British breakfast? I wouldn’t have to worry about all the calories and fat!

* What food would you prepare to seduce someone?

A big pork chop! Hey, don’t knock it till you try it.

* What food are you craving right now?

Mexican street food, probably some tacos.

* What is your comfort food?

Pasta

(Image by Wordle)