Culinary Inspiration at Vitalia Solon

For numerous chefs, there exists a pivotal cookbook that served as the catalyst for their culinary journey. This single book ignited an idea, unlocking a passion for cooking they may not have realized they possessed. Cookbooks transcend mere collections of recipes; they serve as windows into cultures, histories, and personal narratives. With each page turn, a new adventure, tradition, or innovative technique unfolds.

Every recipe and cookbook, whether passed down through generations or reimagined, enriches our culinary culture at Vitalia Solon. Exploring culinary resources nurtures and evolves our love for food and cooking.

My current collection of cookbooks comprises approximately ten titles. Among them, my favorite is “Culinary Artistry.” What I appreciate most about this cookbook is its suitability for up-and-coming chefs, as it comprehensively covers various aspects of food service.

I prioritize cookbooks that emphasize seasonality, texture, taste, color, and plating, as I have found these elements invaluable in my career development.

While I haven’t inherited many recipes from my family, I have gleaned significant knowledge from chefs across the country throughout my career. One memorable experience was learning a chocolate chip cookie recipe from a 20-year-old prep cook named Journey in California. Additionally, I’ve developed one of my favorite recipes: pretzel dinner rolls.

This recipe holds a special place among my favorite dishes.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 2 Lbs. Unsalted Butter
• 2 TBS Baking Powder
• 2 tsp Salt
• 8 Cups Light Brown Sugar
• 2.5 Qt. AP Flour
• 2 oz Vanilla Extract
• 6 Large Eggs
• 1 TBS Baking Soda
• 1 Qt. Chocolate Chips

1. Preheat convection oven to 300 degrees with low fan.
2. Cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (scrape bowl).
3. Add eggs and vanilla.
4. Combine dry ingredients.
5. Add dry to creamed butter in thirds.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Scoop with a black #30 scoop onto a parchment lined sheet tray.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges start to brown.
9. Let cool and serve.

Generational recipes or new culinary creations can spark nostalgia and inspire our cooking journey. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, we all have that one foolproof recipe. Don’t overlook the power of beloved cookbooks and their stories. Keep sharing and savoring the diverse flavors that await us.