“Healthy-Minded Momma”
Special Projects Coordinator
“Everything in moderation, including moderation.” — Julia Child
Hi, I’m Jodi. I became a Mr. Food “groupie” when someone gave me his very first cookbook as a bridal shower gift over 20 years ago. When the opportunity to work with the Mr. Food team presented itself several years back, I jumped! I lead a pretty healthy lifestyle, exercising 3-5 times a week, and trying to feed at least somewhat healthful meals to my family. (Although I believe in everything in moderation, and some of my favorite recipes don’t exactly qualify as “healthy”!)
Favorite Mr. Food recipe: On the healthier side, Balsamic Chicken. On the more indulgent side, Chocolate Chip Cheesecake and French Toast Rollups.
How often do I cook? 3-4 times per week
Who am I cooking for? My husband and two teenage children, although my son is leaving for college, so I’ll have to learn to downsize my meals.
How long have I been cooking? Over 21 years, since I got married.
My biggest challenge in the kitchen: Trying to feed two picky teenagers somewhat healthy food, without too much leftover since I’m the only one who’ll eat them.
What profession best describes me in the kitchen? Well, I’m always very organized as I cook, and I like to clean-up after myself as I go. So I guess you could say, I’m my own personal assistant!
The kitchen appliance I couldn’t live without: My hand blender/food chopper. I’m pretty lazy when it comes to taking out the food processor, so I use the hand blender/food chopper unless it’s a huge quantity.
My ultimate meal: A grilled filet mignon, wild mushroom risotto, roasted asparagus, and some fruity sangria.
The one food I can’t stand: Brussels sprouts. I’ve tried. Really. But I just can’t.
The food that instantly takes me back to childhood is: Kraft Mac & Cheese. I loved when my Mom used to make it. I still love it, but now I love the newer Homestyle pouch Kraft makes. (I think it’s every bit as good as homemade!)
If I were a spice, I would be: Fresh basil. (Okay, I know it’s an herb, but there’s nothing like the smell of it! Mmmm!)
My favorite food that grows from the earth is: Right now it would be sweet peaches.
If I could have dinner with anyone in the world, dead or alive, it would be: I’d rather have dinner with my husband and kids than anyone famous.
Sweet tooth, or salt-craver? What’s my weakness? Usually something sweet: ice cream, rich chocolate cake, or just chocolate…followed by something salty. I really like combining the flavors too, like salted caramel or chocolate-covered potato chips or pretzels.
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