We all have our weaknesses when it comes to food. Mine happens to be comfort food. The savory, fat-laden, gooey dishes that mom used to make are what I turn to when I am feeling stressed. I also turn to comfort food when I am cooking for others because it's the type of food that says, "I love you."
Naturally, I am thrilled that genius chef Jennifer Iserioh has just come out with a new cookbook which is chock-full of comfort food recipes that she has modified to make them less fattening. It's called "Secrets of a Skinny Chef." Don't worry if you are skeptical, I was, too. But I tried a number of them and they are delicious.! Bravo, Jen!
Nachos, fried chicken, mac and cheese, brownies, all good for you! No more guilt! Jennifer is a professionally trained chef, so she knows all the tricks to turning up the flavor. But she is mindful, as most of us are, about the nutritional content, as well. So She makes sure to include lots of whole grains, proteins and vegetables.
What I love most about my new favorite cookbook are all the "Skinny Secrets" she has sprinkled amongst the pages. These are little tips that raise the flavor or lower the calories of any dish you make at home, not just the ones in her book. For example, she suggests "hiding" vegetables in most dishes by making a puree in the food processor of broccoli, sweet potatoes, etc. and adding it to whatever sauce is in your dish. Another one is just add a dash of flaxsee to your morning smootie to evening salad to add the benefits of healthful omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber and protein.
Some of her secrets include substituting turkey bacon, fat-free yogurt and just a smidge of half and half to lighten-up Pasta Carbonara, which is otherwise forbidden. Her fried chicken is made with whole-wheat breading. And desserts like banana cream pie and carrot cake are no longer off-limits.
Jennifer also includes in the book loads of helpful advice such as shopping and what to do with leftovers. I highly recommend it!