One of the defining factors that contribute to the rich Pilipino culture is its Food. Varying flavors from the numerous Philippine Islands, Pilipino food continuous to satisfy the stomach. Even with the simple cooking styles and minimal ingredients used for a variety of dishes, the plentiful tastings manages to attract those from all over the globe. One who has helped fed the cravings on the West Coast of the U.S is Cecilia de Castro, owner of the Academy of Culinary Education (ACE). Cecilia has taken the sweet and tasty traditions of Pilipino cooking into her own art form where she has been able to share her making. Her hints of how dishes are made and how they are complimented with certain condiments capture how diversified dishes can be. The taste of a dish can be simply altered with the right kind of condiment.
Featured in the Los Angeles Daily News, de Castro explains her love for Pilipino food and the background of its making. She explains how Pilipino cooking is mainly based off garlic, onions and tomatoes with rice and at times noodles as the main staples for Pilipino entrees. Also included in the feature are some of her recipes and Chef’s Notes.
Cecilia has managed to put her own twist on the “comfort food” she grew up with. As explained in her featured article, de Castro describes her cooking style as “a fusion of California, French and Pilipino cooking.” She says to “Cook simply with the best, freshest in-season ingredients. Use what is available near you. The food and ingredients should speak for themselves.” And this is definitely what Pilipino food is all about. Pilipino food provides comfort, rich soul, and convenience with the perfect amount of tradition and culture.
The article featured shares de Castro’s journey to becoming the chef she is today. From graduating with a bachelor's degree in Food Science and Nutrition, pleading with popular chefs like Wolfgang Puck, helping with cookbooks and cooking shows, to opening her own school creating professional culinary programs, de Castro has managed to continue sharing the likings and tastes of the Pilipino culture
Through individuals like Cecelia de Castro, the Pilipino experience cannot be anything but tasty and joyous.
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