Fabulously Fierce Friends, Suzanne

Suzanne writes: I am awestruck by the continued creativity of chefs as they experiment with foods from all over the world, and by their ability to present old standbys in distinctive and delicious new ways.

CQ: 1. Who are your role models - food related or otherwise?

Suzanne: Obviously Julia Child, Paul Prudhomme, Graham Kerr

CQ: 2. What is your drink of choice?

Suzanne: Chardonnay, Bellini

CQ: 3. What is your favorite cookbook or other food related book?

Suzanne: Paul Prudhomme's Louisianna Kitchen

CQ: 4. What was your most memorable meal and why?

Suzanne: Any meal at most restaurants in St. Bart's. Why? French cooking. French service, tropical location

CQ: 5. What is your favorite kitchen gadget or tool?

Suzanne: Peeler and a sharp knife

CQ: 7. What kind of music do you like to listen to while you cook?

Suzanne: Depends on what I'm cooking

CQ: 8. What is your philosophy on cooking and eating?

Suzanne: Cooking should be a pleasurable experience, not a chore. The cook is creator /artist in her kitchen. But the cook knows that not everyone will appreciate her efforts. All we ask is that those we cook for keep an open mind and show tact and kindness when we fail. There is nothing more fun than cooking for someone like my husband, someone who loves food, appreciates presentation and loves to eat. There is nothing worse than cooking for someone who views eating as something to be done quickly so they won't miss this week's "The Biggest Loser."

CQ: 9. Are there any foods you can not stand to eat?

Suzanne: Beets, cooked cabbage, turnip

CQ: 10. If you could use any super power in the kitchen, what would it be and why?

Suzanne: If the cooking fairy could give me multiple burners, an addtional oven, extra dishtowels and pans on demand....nice.