Cooking and writing play such a prominent role in my life. Storytelling is an inherent part of both of them. This is a home for the tales of personal growth through the lens of cooking and eating, universal human experiences, but unique to each person.
But like, who are you? I want stats. I won’t judge or compare. Maybe just hate-read your blog for a while. Okay fine, I’m going to judge you.
You do that too? That’s totally unhealthy, unless it fuels personal growth. Then judge away and rise to the occasion. Though, I can’t tell you how many blogs I’ve “hate-read” thinking “this is totally disingenuous” and then found myself falling for them. It’s a slippery slope. Anywhose, stats. My name is Amanda, I’m in my early 30s and when I am not in the kitchen I practice as a lawyer at a big firm in NYC. I have a degree in creative writing and I am so grateful to have found a place to put it to good use. I have a passion for language, cultures, music and literature and come from a long line of wonderful cooks. My mother, mother-in-law and grandmother taught me how to cook. What’s Cooking is my attempt to turn a love for cooking, writing and photography into something I can share.
Seriously? How do you have time for everything? And doesn’t corporate culture crush your spirit?
Originally, I thought I would have to compartmentalize all the facets of my life, but I’m finding they’re not terribly incompatible (a double negative feels more accurate than the affirmative). All of that corporate nonsense is actually made up of pretty interesting people. After work, being in the kitchen or going to the gym actually grounds me. Simple kitchen work calms me. I try to make everything in under an hour, even if that means doing it in phases. Or taking a shower while things are in the oven, going to the gym as the bread rises. I work hard, but my ambitions have shifted. I was never interested in climbing the corporate ladder so much as learning. But now, I want to spend time doing what moves me. Whatever it may be. We’re all just a bunch of imperfect people doing our best to live an imperfect life with a semblance of grace. Whenever there’s an opportunity to learn, I try to take it, in any field. Also, I’ve embraced the idea that I’m not the best at anything I do, other than at being me. And even sometimes that needs work.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned during the process of making this site?
It’s been a really cool journey. The community I’ve met has been one of the most rewarding parts of it. But I’ve also learned the history of regional, seasonal and cultural foods. The day I started this site coincided with the day I got my first table. Our old apartment was a 5th floor walk-up so small that we could only fit folding trays and eat sitting side by side on the couch. When I had my first few meals at our table, I actually shed a tear. What I’ve discovered here is the table as center of relationships. The table as the place that feeds you. Food as a form of art and beauty, comfort, strength and skill. I’ve discovered the meaning behind finding and creating sustenance where you are, and then sharing it, which in turn makes where you are all the more welcoming.
Anything else
you feel like sharing?
Only that I grew up in a small upstate New York farm town. It’s actually the onion capital of New York and provides a huge percentage of onions to the US in general. Warwick does mostly storage onions, but sometimes you can find a sweet vidalia onion during a very short season and I’ll eat it raw like an apple. I grew up weathering black dirt storms from the miracle dirt, which I think has become a part of me now. Every year there is an onion harvest festival and and apple festival. It’s a town that moves with the seasons. I miss it dearly when I’m in the city for too long.
Las Fotos
I like your photos. What do you use to take them? How did you learn?
I’m still trying to improve. I learned by trial and error, reading, talking to people who like photography and drooling over Pinterest and Instagram. I want more props, time and precious natural light, but alas, you really can’t have it all. I take all of the photos on this site with my Nikon DSLR 5100 with a Nikkor 50mm f1/8 now. Up until December 2014 I used the Nikon kit lens.
Whoa, is that your kitchen?
Ha. I wish. That’s in a house I rented with girlfriends for a weekend. This is my kitchen.
How can I get in contact with you?
If you have any questions regarding any of the content here please leave a comment here, email me at Amanda.Whatscooking[at]gmail[dot]com or go to the contact page on the top of the home page or leave a message on my Facebook page or on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you. Keep experimenting! Buen provecho!
Hi..thanks for dropping at my blog and liking my post.
You also have a lovely blog!
Keep blogging!
Thanks! Your blog is great. I love Indian food and some things are so good I really believe they were made by magic. Now I know there are recipes 🙂
Thanks! I would love to learn your veggie recipes as I am vegetarian.
Keep blogging!
i am loving your blog. just not watching the video with you and nigella. how awesome!
Thanks so much! It was such a cool little thing. You know what my mom’s response was to me?
“what’s with your hair?”
Gotta love moms. Sigh.
haha, moms always know the right things to say.
LOL, but they’re usually right. I probably should have had my hairz did.
What video? Do you have it on your site? Would love to watch it too.
OMG you read the comments. It was 2 years ago when I first started. I was in the New York Times talking to Nigella. I hate how I came out, buuuuuuut for you my dear Stacey….http://dinersjournal.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/03/14/recipe-lab-video-chat-with-nigella-lawson/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0
I love your blog! Us new bloggers need to stick together 🙂 That’s why I’ve nominated you for the Liebster Award: http://pocketfulofsugar.com/2013/03/22/liebster-award-embracing-new-bloggers/ Have fun with it!
Oh wow! Thanks so much. Yes, I really can’t believe it’s taken me so long to do something that brings so much joy! Very cool. Thank you.
ciao! luvFAB blog.
thebestdressup
Hi there,
I am pleased to inform you that I have nominated you for Versatile Blogger Award.Check it out here at http://whipadish.wordpress.com/my-awards/
Congratulations and keep on blogging!
Maureen
I think I may have replied to you on your blog, but I wanted to do so here too. Thanks so much for the honor. I love reading your recipes. Keep up the good work!
Thank you very much! Keep blogging!
Beautiful blog … so well-done 🙂
Thank you for stopping by!
TY 4 stopping by my YT channel. And TY for the comment. I love your blog!
Anytime. I had no idea you had such cool vids! Thanks.
Congratulations! You have been awarded: 7 x 7 Link Award!
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post, unless you wish to pass on the award nominations. Your blog has been awarded at:
http://faestwistandtango.wordpress.com/2013/04/24/awards-april-2013/
This one is a fun award check it out!
Enjoy the Award! 😀 Fae.
Love your recipes!!
Thank you for reading them! And thanks for commenting.
Congratulations Abrooke65! You have been awarded: Shine On Award
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post (unless you wish to pass on the award nominations). Nevertheless, your blog has been awarded at:
http://fae-magazine.com/2013/05/29/awards-may-2013/
Enjoy the Award! 😀 Fae.
Thanks so much, Fae! I’m honored. I love what you’re doing over at your site!
Congratulations Abrooke65! You have been awarded:
Awesome Blog Content (ABC) Award
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post (unless you wish to pass on the award nominations). Nevertheless, your blog has been awarded at:
http://fae-magazine.com/2013/06/28/awards-june-2013/
Enjoy the Award! 😀 Fae.
Thanks, Fae. You’re the best!
Hi Amanda,
I just wanted to say I have loved reading your blog and all of its diverse recipes! I’ve nominated you for the Kreativ Blogger Award and look forward to seeing more of your recipes :). Check the award out at: http://theafterschoolchef.wordpress.com/2013/07/23/kreativ-blogger-award-thank-you-tastytreats13/
Thank you! I’m touched. It’s always so nice to hear someone enjoys what you do. I really appreciate it. So sweet 🙂
Que blog mas bonito que tienes! And what a great mix of cooking and cultures in your life 🙂 Am off now for a better look around.
Muchas gracias, Chica! Igual al blog tuyo.
Thank you for following my blog.
Congratulations! You have been awarded:
Best Moment Award
Sunshine Award
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post (unless you wish to pass on the award nominations). Nevertheless, your blog has been awarded at:
http://fae-magazine.com/2013/08/15/award-august-2013/
Enjoy your Awards! 😀 Fae.
Thank you, fae. You are such a great party of such a wonderful community.
Congratulations! You have been awarded: Very Inspiring Blogger Award
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post (unless you wish to pass on the award nominations). Nevertheless, your blog has been awarded at: http://fae-magazine.com/2013/09/18/award-september-2013-and-i-will-be-going-on-a-trip/
Enjoy your Award! 😀 Fae.
Thank you, fae! It is always so nice to know that a peer appreciates your work. Especially a cook of your caliber.
Hey, thanks for stopping by my space. I love what you’re doing with your blog here. Very informative and interesting. Following you now.
Thanks, Namrata. Your blog is really cool. So glad you stopped by mine too!
I’m glad you liked the veal stewed with white beans, thankgs for visiting my place. We`ll keep in touch as I`m already following your place Amanda. Have a nice day ;).
Gracias, Oso! Este fin de semana voy a tomar una clase en la comida Basque! No veo la hora de aprender un poco mas! 🙂
Congratulations Amanda! You have been awarded:
I’m a part of the WordPress Family Award
I do not expect any action to be taken, or for you to generate a post (unless you wish to pass on the award nominations). Nevertheless, your blog has been awarded at: http://fae-magazine.com/2013/10/29/award-october-2013/ … Or, after one month at: http://fae-magazine.com/awards/2013-blog-awards/
Enjoy your Award! 😀 Fae.
Thank you, Fae! As always it’s so wonderful to receive recognition by such a wonderful andwarm cook like yourself with such sophisticated content. Thank you!
Hi Amanda! I love your blog and have nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award and another Blogger of the Year Award. Here’s my post in case you’d like to participate & pass on the recognition: http://theseasonedtraveler.wordpress.com/2013/11/27/thanks-giving/comment-page-1/#comment-314
Congrats!
Thanks very much. I’m honored. I love your blog too.
Congratulations Amanda! You have been awarded:
– 3 stars ☆ ☆ ☆ for Blog of The Year 2013 Award
No pressure, it is all up to you to pay it forward. You have been awarded at:
http://fae-magazine.com/2013/12/02/awards-december-2013/
… Or, after a month, look for it
here >> http://fae-magazine.com/awards/2013-blog-awards/
Enjoy your Awards! 😀 Fae.
Thank you, Fae. It really is an honor to be recognized by you always.
first off, i should say that i love the variety of recipes on your blog. i particularly enjoyed your post about blinchiki (a personal favorite of mine as a young dude with a russian dad).
but far and away, your photos are where your blog shines. i love how you include photos of the dish in a variety of different angles. glad i stumbled upon your blog when wandering aimlessly through the blogosphere. i’ll be back for sure.
Misha, Thank you for such a beautiful comment. I’m touched. I’m really glad you stopped by. It’s not always you get that kind of validation and encouragement for a labor of love. I will be stopping by your blog too. Thanks again. A
Hi Amanda, have a look I’ve nominated you for the WordPress Family Award ♡
https://shivaaydelights.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/dragons-loyalty-sunshine-wordpress-family-awards-%e2%98%86%e2%98%86%e2%98%86/
I very much appreciate you!
Love D x
Thanks so much, Dimple. I love reading your blog too. You’re such an inspiration. I’m touched.
A
Hi Amanda! Love your beautiful blog, I think we are similar in lots of ways… I studied creative writing at uni and completely 3 years of a law degree before I dropped out (I couldn’t imagine myself being a lawyer). I now work in counseling and social work at a hospital and blog/write in my spare time. Thanks for sharing these recipes and stories with us. Looking forward to reading more from you next year! xx
Oh wow! I wanted to go into psychology! Here 3 years is all it takes after college so maybe you would have been a lawyer, though social work is a great field. We really do have a lot in common. I can’t wait to check out your blog! Happy New year!
Hi Amanda you are having a lovely blog! <3 🙂
Thanks so much! 🙂
you had me at persian, beautiful photography, look forward to reading more
Ha. Thanks so much. So glad you like what you see 🙂
Hi Amanda nice to meet you through the Fiesta Friday.! Your chicken kebab post got me here.! Your recipes and your pictures look outstanding!
Cool! Nice to meet you too! I’m so glad I came to the party! Thanks for dropping by. I really appreciate your compliment.
Hi Amanda, my name is Brendon and I am a writer and food stylist based in Sydney, Australia. I just came across your blog through the links on WordPress. Great photographs! Can’t wait to read more from you 🙂
Thanks for stopping by, Brendon. I already found you the same way. We den to be reading the same people. I was shy about introducing myself. Looking fwd to reading more from you too. Thanks for saying hi. 😉
Great to connect with you 🙂 Keep smiling
Buen provecho to an amazing chef and photographer (and super lawyer on the side, I’m sure). 🙂
Gracias! Coming from a historian/writer/Spanish speaker, I’m flattered!
Hi, Amanda! Looking forward to cooking with you for this month challenge. What a nice blog you have. Will definitely come back to explore. Have a great weekend. 🙂
By the way, I love your header image. Great photo! <3 it!. 🙂
Thanks, Anna. I’m looking forward to it too. It’s a nice group. The header is from the market in Barcelona. I wish we had ventral markets like that in the Us.
The pleasure is all mine, Amanda. I love a large display of fruits and veggies. I feel like I’m in a candy store whenever I go to a farmers market. Yes, I agree with you. I wish they have a market like the one in Barcelona here in the US. That would be awesome. 🙂
By the way, thanks for following my blog. Have a fabulous day! 🙂
Beautiful blog! Your recipes and pictures looks great! Will come back to explore more:) Olga from “Oceanviewkitchen”
Thanks, olga. I will do the same!
I’m so pleased to meet you, Amanda, via Jovina’s http://jovinacooksitalian.com/ kind introduction http://familyanswersfast.wordpress.com/2014/06/21/sometimes-you-need-to-topple-down-your-comfortable-house-of-cards-to-build-something-better/ . Your blog is stunning! #NF
Pleased to meet you too! Thanks so much.
Hi Amanda. I stopped by because of a mutual blogging friends’ recommendation (foodisthebestshitever) and, I’m glad I did. I look forward to reading more from you !! Stay hungry !! 🙂
Aww thank you! I look fwd to having you around! 🙂
🙂
Hi Amanda. I think we are very similar. I am 32 and I did a creative writing MA two years ago and I obviously love cooking as well. It is lovely to get to know you better. Stay in touch. Emma.
No way, really? Fiction has been so difficult for me and so I figured I would do this as a creative outlet until I decide or the moment arises where my path is a little more clear. There’s a lot of pressure to write, but when you have to support yourself and you’re not getting published, it’s frustrating. I’m lucky to be in NYC where I go to readings, workshops etc, but now I’m really just enjoying this wonderful food experience! Have you been writing?
Hey!
I have nominated you for the versatile blogger award, wonderful team member readership award, the wordpress family award, and the liebster award
Thank you so much. Very sweet. 😉
Hi Amanda, I just wanted to say that I peaked around your blog today and I greatly enjoyed reading it.
Thanks so much. I’m really glad you like it. So nice to hear. Xo
Great post! I love your writing style.
Thanks, Hilda. I appreciate your taking the time to read it 🙂
Amanda! I love this! I read every bit of it and seriously…I am even a bigger fan now. 🙂
Oh, Seana. You are too kind. I love hearing from you and look forward to it. It’s so rare to get just genuine support. I also love the way you cook. You made my evening 🙂
Aha, you’ve pulled back the curtain a bit, Amanda. Love the new updated page! Thank you for sharing. I still want to know more but that’s because I’m a nosey fan! heh heh
Love your blog. Your recipes are great and the pictures are beautiful! Definitely want to read more.
Thank you so much. Always nice to hear.
Hey Amanda, I don’t now if I’ve ever commented on your About page before, but yes, I knew it, I knew that the photo in the header was from Barcelona! So distinctive 🙂 Besos
If anyone could guess, it’s you 😉 besos.
Thank you for the “follow” I’m flattered that you’re interested in my humble musings about meat 🙂
I also like your style … you write with poise and grace and your photos are very well done.
I look forward to reading more from you … stay hungry 🙂
What a beautiful compliment. I’m all about anyone who writes thoughtfully about a passion and shows interest in others. You’ve got a cool spot here! I’ll be reading! Always hungry. 😉
Great 🙂 … I’ll (hopefully) try not to disappoint … 🙂
Hi Amanda,
Greetings from Berlin, Germany. Stumbled over your blog through your amazing photography on Pinterest, and your writing style on this page has made me a stayer 🙂
Looking forward browse through your recipes, and also for more recipes to come!
Wishing you a great weekend.
What a beautiful comment, Fernando. Thank you. Im so glad you came by and I really appreciate that you took the time to say hi. Heading over to your blog now 😉 Berlin! Wow. Have a great weekend!
Love this blog! Very nice pictures!
Thank you so much. What a sweet compliment.
Amanda,
The comments are turned off on the latest soup post. I just wanted to say what a lovely piece of descriptive writing. The recipe is lovely too.
Bravo.
Aww. Thank you. Nice of you to go out of your way to be kind. I think you have to jump out of the reader to leave a comment. That’s very strange. Anyway, I’ll look into it, but thank you so much 🙂
What a beautiful blog and gorgeous photographs too.
Thank you, Nadia. It’s so nice to hear that. You made my day!