When I'm asked, "Where did you learn to cook?" the first answer is always, "My mom," which is true. But I'd be remiss if I didn't credit my own industry. A devoted student of television, over the years I learned enough to teach even my mother a few new tricks in the kitchen. I also want to credit the many chefs I've cooked with on television -- all of whom imparted wisdom that only comes from talent, training and years of experience.
But since most of us don't have the opportunity to cook with great chefs on or off camera, the following are some of my favorite cooking shows and hosts. Let me preface this by saying: I like cooking shows that teach us how to cook. Competition shows are fine. The Taste with Anthony Bourdain is great, but we learn more about strategy and human nature than about actual food prep. Please let me know if you have any favorites you'd like to share.
1) Julia Child
Anything Julia Child did on television was OK by me. Her original series, The French Chef still holds up today. I doubt the term "production values" existed when the series was made -- but the information and demonstrations are fantastic. Episodes like " The Omelettes Show" are instructional because she repeats the same thing over and over. It's unheard of today. Martha Stewart has taken a turn at an instructional cooking show with Martha Stewart Cooking School, but it lacks the charm, humor and humility that Julia had in spades. And Julia had no one to copy. I also loved Cooking with Julia, Julia and Jacques Cooking at Home, and her Master Chefs series.
2) Martha Stewart
While I'm not a fan of Martha Stewart's current cooking show, segments in her old series (pre-jail) were great. Again, simple, straight forward how-to. Just wish she'd lighten up a little. Julia Child proved perfection is not the goal. None us would eat if it were.
3) Ina Gartner
The Barefoot Countess is an indulgence just to watch. Gartner's recipes are usually so rich I can't imagine how she eats that way -- but she's fun to watch and she seems to take such pleasure in food and feeding others. A passion I share.
4) Anna Olsen
As an avid baker, I really like Bake with Anna Olsen. I'm envious of her set with drawers full of flour and sugar, wide kitchen counters and multi-leveled ovens. My kitchen is so small -- my dining room table (my only table) is were everything cools. Anna teaches with warmth and skill. She lets you in on little tricks like why you should include lemon juice in pastry. She knows her stuff.
5) Just about anything on PBS
America's Test Kitchen and Cook's Country -- both hosted by Christopher Kimball -- appeal to the food geek in me. I love to know where recipes come from and how they evolved. The host is a veritable encyclopedia of food and recipe history. America's Test Kitchen explains what works and what doesn't. I love the science behind baking.
6) Gordon Ramsey
Gordon Ramsay's Ultimate Cookery Course. Billed as the last cooking course you'll ever have to take -- the series does theme shows including "Food on a Budget," "Baking" and "Ultimate Slow Cooking." Solid info from a credible source who's good on camera. No theatrics and it's faster-paced than my other favorites. I always come away with ideas and inspiration.
7) Jamie Oliver
Jamie's 15 minute Meals offers basic recipes that look easy to make. He really takes the mystery out of cooking. I also love what he's accomplished in his work to improve childhood nutrition and environmental consciousness. He really is using his power for good.
