Cooking Like a Pro

Text Christa!Get ready to fire up your culinary curiosity because the latest episode of Culinarily Yours' Cooking Like a Pro podcast just went live! This week, Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio (aka Mrs. Chef!) serve up a flavorful chat all about chicken piccata, mastering pan sauces, getting creative with leftovers, and making cooking a true family affair.Here's what you'll learn when you tune in:5 Keys to Level Up Your Cooking:Pan Sauce 101Discover how to capture every bit of flavor with deglazing and learn the basics of making a killer pan sauce (spoiler: stop washing away those tasty brown bits at the bottom of the pan!).Chicken Piccata, Step by StepFind out how to make perfectly juicy, evenly cooked chicken piccata—plus simple tips for thickening and finishing your sauce just right.Intuitive & Mystery Box CookingLearn how to trust your palate, freestyle with leftovers (hello, spaghetti Bolognese remix), and get creative without a recipe using “intuitive cooking” tricks.Family Cooking ProjectsBread, homemade ice cream, pasta, pickles, butter—Christa and Chef Cal share activities that get the whole family involved (and happy to taste test!).Dense Bean Salads Dive into the viral “dense bean salad craze” and how to whip up healthy, protein-packed salads that last all week… with a quick work-friendly lunch you'll want to try.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: christa@culinarilyyours.net Website Text Me! Leave a Voicemail

Text Christa!Welcome to the 30th episode of "Cooking Like a Pro" with Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio, where culinary magic meets practical tips for home cooks. Tune in as we explore an array of mouth-watering topics to elevate your cooking game.The Magic of Citrus: Discover how citrus can transform your dishes with its bright, acidic punch. From lemon zest in your martini to grapefruit segments in your salads, we've got you covered!Marinate Like a Pro: Chef Cal shares tips on using vinaigrettes as marinades for seafood, pork, and chicken. Learn how to let flavors infuse without the risk of overcooking or getting mushy textures.Pork Perfection: Understand the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin, and choose the best cut for your dinner table. Plus, learn the art of pork searing followed by a delicious oven finish.Pastry Possibilities: Explore the world of savory dishes wrapped in delicious puff pastries, phyllo, and more. Chef Cal breaks down how to wrap your proteins for maximum flavor and that perfect flaky texture.Apple Adventures: Elevate your pork chops with an apple compote that adds texture and tang. From selecting the right type of apple to bringing out its flavors, we've got tips for you.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: christa@culinarilyyours.net Website Text Me! Leave a Voicemail

Text Christa!In this episode of Cooking Like a Pro, Chef Cal and guest Chef Sadie Krueger bring you culinary insights to elevate your kitchen game. Delve into kitchen essentials, St. Patrick's Day menu ideas, and learn new cooking tips from the experts.Discover the must-have kitchen gadgets and pots for cooking like a pro.Explore delicious menu ideas for your St. Patrick's Day celebration.Learn about Chef Cal's favorite bean dish and cooking techniques.Insights into the benefits of grains and legumes as kitchen staples.

Text Christa!This week on the podcast join us for a special episode featuring Chef Cal and Christa—better known as Chef and Mrs. Chef—as they sit down with Linda Bott on Northstate Now to explore the transformative power of food.Together, they explore how food brings people together, the importance of fresh ingredients, and insights on pairing wine with food. Chef Cal discusses his upcoming cookbook, while Christa shares about her newly released how-to fix veggies e-book along with how her own culinary journey began. You'll also find out about the first time they met. Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know the term "table touching"? Neither did we! It's when chefs in restaurants come out to chat with diners, ensuring they're enjoying their meals. It's all about making a personal connection with food! 

Text Christa!On today's episode, join Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio as they delve into the world of cooking with professional tips and techniques, sharing insights on cookware, chicken creativity, and delectable recipe ideas.Stainless Steel Savvy: Discover how to choose the right stainless steel cookware and learn the magnet trick to identify top-notch pots and pans.Revamp Your Leftover Chicken: Get creative with your leftovers using Costco's roasted chicken, from chicken cacciatore to chicken salad and beyond.Perfect Polenta: Follow Chef Cal's guide to crafting creamy polenta, perfect for pairing with various dishes.Cedar Plank Salmon Secrets: Uncover the art of cedar plank salmon preparation, including a step-by-step on using red cedar planks from Home Depot. Healthful Ingredient Insights: Understand the importance of minimizing processed foods and opting for organic choices to ensure a healthy diet.Fun Fact from the Episode : The Chinese Chicken Salad made famous by Wolfgang Puck was invented by Madame Wu in Santa Monica.RECIPESCedar Plank SalmonCreamy PolentaChef's Secret SaltLet'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: christa@culinarilyyours.net Website Text Me! Leave a Voicemail

Text Christa!Hey Food Fans,We're back with another delicious episode of "Cooking Like a Pro"!

Text Christa!Shoot me a text and Chef and I will answer your cooking Question on Season 2 of the podcast..................................Hey Food Fans,We're back and sizzling with excitement! I'm Christa DeMercurio, a.k.a Mrs. Chef, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to Season 2 of Cooking Like a Pro. Get ready to discover fresh culinary inspiration alongside my husband, Chef Cal, as we dive into perfecting your kitchen skills.Guess What??? I'm thrilled to announce the launch of my new ebook, How to Make Vegetables Taste Good!

Hey Foodie Fam,We've got an exciting new episode of "Cooking Like a Pro" ready just in time for Christmas!

Get ready to elevate your culinary skills with insights from Chef Cal and his Mrs. Chef, in today's episode of "Cooking Like a Pro." We'll explore everything from the beginning makings of a charcuterie board to the intricacies of seasoning meats.Discover the art of building a perfect charcuterie board and tips fromMaster the seasoning and temperature technique for a juicy filet mignonUncover the differences between New Zealand and Australian lambLearn essential tips for selecting and storing meatGet creative with winter citrus in salads and innovative uses for kiwi in marinadesSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Join Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio as they dive into creative and delicious ways to use your Thanksgiving leftovers. This episode offers practical tips to help you make the most out of your holiday feast remnants.Transform turkey bones into a rich and savory stock.Layer turkey and cranberry sauce on a Hawaiian roll for a tasty sandwich.Create soups like loaded potato or turkey rice.Make unique dishes like turkey quesadillas and Thanksgiving breakfast burritos.Use leftover turkey to make turkey hash with tater tots.Discover how to turn your mashed potatoes into pancakes.Learn how to prepare homemade turkey pot pies.

Get ready for Thanksgiving with Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio and as they share their top tips for a stress-free holiday feast. This episode of "Cooking Like a Pro" focuses on meal planning, timing strategies, and essential hosting advice for Thanksgiving.✨DOWNLOAD YOUR HOLIDAY PREP GUIDE ✨Explore themed variations for your Thanksgiving meal, including Italian, seafood, or Tex-Mex options.Holiday Prep Guide available for download at culinarilyyours.net.Essential decor and table setting tips, including the use of cloth napkins and unscented candles.Strategies for accommodating dietary needs and guest comfort.Detailed timeline for meal prep, from seven days out to Thanksgiving Day.Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Gobble, gobble! Christa DeMercurio and Chef Cal here, and guess what? We're back with another juicy episode of the "Cooking Like a Pro" podcast on Culinarily Yours, just in time for Thanksgiving! If you're looking to up your turkey game and master those side dishes, this one's for you.

Join Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio for an insightful episode discussing Caesar salads, holiday preparations, and the latest trends in flavored butters. Perfect for culinary enthusiasts looking to elevate their cooking game this season.The secret to perfect homemade croutons for Caesar salads.A dive into the 100th anniversary of Caesar salad and the 200th anniversary of A1 steak sauce.Tips for Thanksgiving turkey preparation and alternative side dishes.The versatility and benefits of compound butters, including trending recipes.Seasonal fall vegetables and how to make the most of them in your cooking.Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Join hosts Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio as they dive into essential kitchen practices and food safety tips in this episode of the "Cooking Like a Pro" podcast. Get chef advice on everything from poblanos and mole, to couscous, and clams.KITCHEN TIP: Storing your spices near the stove might be convenient, but it's not ideal! Heat and light can degrade seasonings. Keep them in airtight containers in cooler, darker places to maintain their quality and flavor. Insights into Mexican cuisine, what's popularEfficient cooling techniques and guidelinesUnderstanding grain-to-water ratios for various grainsDon't overcook your clamsSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Hey Food  Fans! Unlock culinary secrets with Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio in this episode of Cooking Like a Pro. Learn essential tips for everything from pomegranate preparation to perfecting your roast beef.Discover an efficient method for extracting pomegranate seeds underwater.Learn the best cuts for tender roast beef and techniques to avoid toughness.Quick tip for thickening soups using instant mashed potatoes and cooking grains and pasta separate from your soup.Advice from Chef Cal on entering the culinary profession and becoming a chefSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Hey Food Fans! Join Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio on another insightful episode of Cooking Like a Pro, where they delve into culinary techniques, trends, and the art of flavors. Tune in for tips that will elevate your cooking game at home.Learn the essentials of making beef stock from scratch.Discover the differences between pickling and fermenting, and their health benefits.Gain insights on enhancing flavor through aroma and presentation.Understand the fundamentals of proper vegetable preparation to avoid bitterness or undercooking.Don't miss these expert tips and more on "Cooking Like a Pro"!Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Hey Food Fans! In this episode, we dive into the heart of family-owned restaurant operations, revealing the secrets behind hand-crafted, from-scratch, dishes and staying community and customer driven. Join Chef Cal as he chats with Kathy and Charlew Byerly from Charlew's Taphouse about the intricacies of running a family-owned restaurant and how they maintain quality and customer satisfaction amidst economic challenges.The evolution of Charlew's, from a Mary's Pizza Shack family franchise operation, to their current success as an independent third-generation owned Italian restaurant.How Grandma Mary started out in the restaurant business at 48 years old back in the 60's, creating a legacy that inspires current operationsBeing family-owned and independent allows for adaptability and personalized customer experiences, unlike chain restaurantsNavigating economic challenges and maintaining menu pricesThe importance of hands-on experience and unique recipes for aspiring restaurateursSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

Join Chef Cal and Mrs. Chef as they share their unforgettable 18th wedding anniversary trip to Monterey Bay in California. Discover culinary delights, unique finds, and memorable dining experiences in this detailed podcast.Staying at the Victorian Inn Hotel, appreciating its boutique experienceEnjoying a meal at The Salty Seal English pub featuring the CoLoSo BandVisited an olive oil bar with over 70 types of oils and balsamic vinegarsSipping on wine while overlooking the Monterey BayExperiencing a memorable meal at The Sardine Factory, highlighting dishes and dramatic presentationsThe Victorian Inn HotelLeese-Fitch WinesCoLoSo BandSalty Seal BrewpubMonterey Bay Restaurant SupplyMalinka European Mini MarketMonterey's Tasty Olive BarA Taste of Monterey

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.Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

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 concernsPractical advice for reducing food waste and maintaining produce qualityTips for safe crock pot usageCreative cooking experimentationSuccessful way to learning wine varietalsSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

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 pluotsTips on deep frying: maintaining oil temperature and seasoning timingThe importance of mindful eating and portion controlStay tuned for practical tips and fun kitchen experiments in this episode of "Cooking Like a Pro"!Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

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 cookingInsights into various sauces and their modificationsFood safety practices to avoid cross-contaminationChef Cal's nostalgic culinary stories with Lobster TalesSend us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

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 skillInsights on locally sourced vs. commercial eggs and their nutritional valueRemembering French Chef Michel Guérard, his ratatouille known Confit Byaldi, and nouvelle cuisine Innovative, healthier dessert options like chocolate avocado puddingThe impact of processed food additives on health and longevityLearn the acronym of NEWSTARTThe importance of using fresh, unprocessed foods for a healthier lifestyleFor food and wine adventures, visit Greystone in St. Helena (Napa, CA):https://www.ciafoodies.com/cia-greystone/Send us a textWe love FAN MAIL!

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 HamiComparison between homemade and store-bought butternut squash soupCal's hunting family background for eclectic meatsPar cooking vegetables and finishing in the oven for roasted flavorPaso Robles as a food and wine destination00:00 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!Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

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!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!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.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.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! Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

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 SquashHere 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.Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

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

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!Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

Hey Food Fans!We're back with another exciting episode of Cooking Like a Pro featuring your favorite culinary duo, Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio. This week, we've got a treasure trove of tips and tricks that will take your kitchen game to the next level!

Join Chef Cal and Christa on this week's episode of Cooking Like a Pro as they delve into culinary tips and techniques to enhance your cooking skills. This podcast is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for both novice and experienced cooks.FEATURED RECIPE in this episode GAZPACHO✔️ Learn how to prepare a unique dish of sautéed cucumbers with garlic, shallot, cream, and dill. Get tips on grilling cucumbers and reducing their bitterness.✔️ Dive into wine pairing insights, focusing on merlot and how to enhance your dining experience.✔️ Understand the importance of the "dry, wet, dry" breading method for perfect coating.TIMESTAMP OVERVIEW00:00 Exploring local farmers market for food.04:07 Ice cold dish and chilled spoon preference.07:01 Slice, saute, add cream, dill, enjoy. Delightful surprise!09:54 Enjoying John Denver while craving homegrown tomatoes.14:48 Breading is used for fast-cooking, tender items.17:35 Sautéed and deep frying can be healthy.21:50 Refrigerator whisperer finds fun in cooking.25:17 Enhancing wine taste and food pairing tips.27:47 Testing grape sugar content using refractometer.30:06 Chardonnay with buttery, nutty flavor pairs with halibut.35:15 Pairing food and wine, merlot, sweeter wine. Drink what you like, ask for samples.38:36 Restaurant owner emphasizes importance of customer service.40:35 Request for ice water, customer engagement essential.43:38 Eating out, supporting restaurants.46:27 Service: Getting order right, tipping becoming common.Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

Join Chef Cal and Christa on this week's episode of Cooking Like a Pro as they delve into culinary tips and techniques to enhance your cooking skills. This podcast is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for both novice and experienced cooks.✨DOWNLOAD BBQ SAUCE CHEAT SHEET with 10 RECIPES ✨✔️ Explore tips for enhancing store-bought barbecue sauces, including a ginger barbecue sauce recipe for seafood.✔️ Learn about the key to removing the bloodline from salmon and the importance of fresh, non-fishy fish.✔️ Discover how to pair fruit-based barbecue sauces with proteins like chicken, pork, and sea bass.✔️ Get tips on handling and preserving fresh produce, including the best way to store blueberries.✔️ Hear about Cal's memories of his grandpa's BBQ sauce and the significance of food in bringing people together.Don't miss out on these cooking hacks and join Cal and Christa next week for more culinary wisdom!Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!

✅ Ever wondered how choosing the right spoon could make or break your event✅ Discover how attention to detail can transform your culinary experiences ✅ Tune in to this first-ever Cooking Like a Pro podcast featuring Chef Cal and Christa DeMercurio as radio show guests with host Carl Bott on the Free Fire Radio Morning Show!What strategies do Cal and Christa suggest for ensuring all dishes for multiple guests are ready to serve simultaneously in a restaurant setting? Training staff, attention to detail, and stellar service from first contact are emphasized. Chef Cal paints the challenge of prepping multiple meals at once, stressing timing and coordination.Ever wondered why your BBQ isn't hitting the mark? Chef Cal shares pro-tips on tri tip techniques and the art of letting meat rest. From ice water for crisp lettuce to the magic behind Santa Maria BBQ, tune in to this episode on Cooking Like a Pro.Send us a Text Message.We love FAN MAIL!