Baking For Business Podcast – Episode #84: Celebrating A New Book Release With Preppy Kitchen
Release Date: July 24, 2024
Host: Chef Amanda Schonberg
Guest: John from Preppy Kitchen
Introduction of the Guest
In this exciting episode of the Baking For Business Podcast, host Chef Amanda Schonberg welcomes back a familiar face, John of Preppy Kitchen. Known for his bestselling first book, John returns to discuss his highly anticipated second release, "Preppy Kitchen Super Easy."
Quote:
"Pretty sure you sold all out of his first book. And here today he's going to talk about his second book." – Amanda Schonberg [00:02]
Overview of "Preppy Kitchen Super Easy"
John delves into the inspiration behind his new book, emphasizing the need for quick and straightforward recipes tailored for busy families. Drawing from his experiences as a parent of twin boys, he recognized the common struggle of preparing meals with limited time.
Quote:
"Preppy Kitchen Super Easy was born. They're just really fast and easy recipes." – John [01:30]
The book features 100 simple and versatile recipes, utilizing modern kitchen gadgets like air fryers, slow cookers, and instant pots to save time without compromising on flavor.
Recipe Versatility and Flexibility
A significant focus of John's new book is recipe versatility. He encourages home bakers to use his recipes as a foundation, allowing them to personalize dishes to suit their family's preferences.
Quote:
"I want people to not feel pigeonholed. Like, they have to do it exactly this way because everyone's different." – John [03:04]
John provides numerous variations within each recipe, such as alternative spices, proteins, and presentation styles, ensuring that each dish can be adapted and enjoyed repeatedly.
Selection Process for Recipes
Choosing the right 100 recipes was a meticulous process for John. He started with over 100 ideas, drawing from family favorites and beloved dishes from his first book. His aim was to streamline these recipes, reducing ingredient lists and preparation steps to make them more accessible.
Quote:
"One example is the spicy tomato orzo. It's like a spicy tomato base with Bloody Mary mix." – John [04:49]
He prioritizes recipes that are both crowd-pleasers and time-efficient, ensuring each selection aligns with the book's "super easy" theme.
Memorable Moments During Writing
John shares heartfelt memories from the book-writing journey, highlighting collaborative moments with his mother and family. These experiences not only enriched the recipes but also infused them with personal significance.
Quote:
"I was able to put Nana's Vegetable Soup in the book. So that was one that was really fun because we all did it together." – John [06:41]
Favorite Recipes from the Book
When asked about his favorite desserts, John highlights the "perfect birthday cake" from the book—a vanilla cake adorned with sprinkles that's both visually appealing and delicious. Additionally, he mentions his personal favorite, a lemony olive oil cake topped with a mascarpone-infused whipped cream and summer berries.
Quote:
"It's like, almost impossible. There's like this dissolves on your palette." – John [08:58]
Recommended Savory Dishes
John doesn't stop at desserts; he also recommends several savory recipes from his new book:
- Sweet and Spicy Corn Pudding: A versatile side dish enhanced with candied jalapeños.
- Salmon Steaks with Cream Cheese Caraway Filling: An easy, flavorful main course perfect for meal prepping.
- Summer Gazpacho: A refreshing, cold soup ideal for hot days, topped with crunchy croutons.
Quote:
"It's really versatile. And I...you could have them ready to bake off. It was so good." – John [10:31]
Writing and Recipe Development Insights
Creating "Preppy Kitchen Super Easy" was a two-year endeavor for John, emphasizing thorough recipe development and testing. He collaborated with testers from different regions to ensure the recipes' adaptability across various ingredient brands and regional preferences.
Quote:
"We have different brands of flour that we use. So if you have a recipe with self-rising flour... it comes out for everybody." – John [12:54]
Book Tour and Future Plans
John announces an upcoming book tour starting August 20th, inviting listeners to attend events and engage with him in person. He expresses enthusiasm about meeting fans and sharing stories related to food and family.
Quote:
"I'm so excited to meet people. That's one of my favorite experiences from the first book." – John [14:02]
Lightning Round: Personal Insights
In a fun twist, John participates in a remixed Lightning Round, answering personal questions that offer listeners a glimpse into his life beyond the kitchen:
- Current Baker Crush: Ina Garten
- Favorite Dessert Across Both Books: The perfect birthday cake
- Persistently Playing Song: A new, catchy track by Kesha
- Perfect Day Outside the Kitchen: Quality time with his kids, exercising, and enjoying delicious food prepared by others
Quote:
"My answer will never change. It'll always be Ina." – John [15:35]
Conclusion
Chef Amanda Schonberg wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to check out John's new book and join his book tour. She expresses gratitude for his return and the valuable insights shared during the conversation.
Quote:
"John, thank you so much for sharing about the book and everything with me. Today I am going to play a game of Lightning Round..." – Amanda Schonberg [14:40]
Final Thoughts
Episode #84 of the Baking For Business Podcast offers a comprehensive look into John’s latest culinary creation, "Preppy Kitchen Super Easy." Through engaging discussions and personal anecdotes, listeners gain valuable insights into creating versatile, time-saving recipes that cater to busy lifestyles. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your home bakery journey, this episode provides inspiration and practical tips to elevate your culinary endeavors.
Explore More:
- Preppy Kitchen Super Easy: Available now Link in Show Notes
- Book Tour Details: Visit John's website for event locations and ticket reservations.
Thank you for tuning in to this week's episode of the Baking For Business Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!