As Steamy Kitchen proudly approaches its second decade, it’s truly astounding to reflect on how this culinary journey began almost concurrently with the dawn of food blogging itself. For nearly twenty years, we’ve been sharing recipes, stories, and a passion for delicious food, and it fills my heart with immense gratitude to know that many of you have been an integral part of this incredible adventure from its very nascent stages. Whether you joined us at the beginning or found your way to our table more recently, please know that your presence and support are deeply cherished and appreciated.
Looking back over these remarkable years, my mind overflows with literally thousands of vivid memories. Each one is a precious snapshot – from moments of unexpected joy and profound discovery to incredible accomplishments and invaluable connections forged with amazing people. The tapestry of Steamy Kitchen’s history is rich with experiences, and the list of cherished moments genuinely feels endless.
To celebrate Steamy Kitchen officially reaching its “legal adult” status – a significant milestone, even if it’s not quite old enough for a celebratory drink just yet – I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and share some of my most treasured memories along the way. Join me as we take a delightful trip down memory lane and revisit some beloved Steamy Kitchen throwbacks, exploring the evolution of a dream that started with a simple passion for cooking.
Embracing the Learning Curve: Our Early Days in Blogging
When Steamy Kitchen first sprouted, the digital landscape was still relatively uncharted territory for many, including myself. My expertise lay primarily in the kitchen, not necessarily behind a computer or camera. The early days were a whirlwind of self-education and trial-and-error. I dove headfirst into learning the intricacies of blogging, from setting up a website to mastering the art of self-publishing cookbooks. There was also the daunting task of becoming comfortable and authentic on camera, a skill that felt completely foreign at first. And, perhaps most crucial for a food blog, I had to teach myself the art and science of food photography – how to make a dish look as delicious on screen as it tasted in person.
It was a massive undertaking, a continuous cycle of learning, experimenting, and often, failing before succeeding. Yet, with unwavering determination and a deep passion for sharing culinary delights, I made it happen. The photo above captures my initial setup, a testament to those humble beginnings. It’s amusing to look back and remember the various artificial lighting solutions I experimented with before the crucial realization dawned on me: natural light is, without a doubt, the most flattering and effective light source for capturing the true beauty of food. This discovery alone was a game-changer, transforming my photography and, consequently, the visual appeal of Steamy Kitchen.
These foundational experiences weren’t just about acquiring technical skills; they were about building resilience, fostering creativity, and understanding the core essence of connecting with an audience through food. Every blurry photo, every coding hiccup, every recipe that didn’t quite work out on the first try, contributed to the rich learning tapestry that defines Steamy Kitchen’s early growth. It was a period of intense personal and professional development, shaping not just the blog, but also my approach to life and entrepreneurship, laying the groundwork for the thriving culinary platform it is today.
Cultivating a Sustainable Lifestyle: Our Hydroponic Garden and Fresh Eggs
For those long-time followers, you might fondly recall a period when Steamy Kitchen wasn’t just about sharing recipes, but also about cultivating a deeper connection to our food source. We embarked on an exciting venture into sustainable living, establishing our very own hydroponic garden and raising a lively flock of chickens that provided us with the freshest, most delicious eggs imaginable. This was more than just a hobby; it was a profound lifestyle choice that brought immense joy and valuable lessons to our family.
Our hydroponic garden was a marvel of modern home farming, allowing us to grow an astonishing variety of fresh produce right in our backyard, irrespective of traditional soil conditions. From crisp leafy greens to robust broccoli, vibrant tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, we reveled in the ability to harvest ingredients mere steps from our kitchen. The experience taught us so much about the journey of food from seed to plate, instilling a greater appreciation for fresh, seasonal produce. My children, as you can see in these cherished photos, were deeply involved and absolutely loved participating in this sustainable endeavor. They learned firsthand about the cycles of nature, the rewards of hard work, and the unparalleled taste of food grown with care and love. Nathan’s beaming face with that magnificent head of broccoli perfectly encapsulates the simple yet profound satisfaction derived from nurturing our own food.
The chickens, with their clucking and scratching, added another layer of charm and self-sufficiency to our home. Gathering fresh eggs each morning was a ritual that connected us directly to the source of our meals. It was an invaluable experience that highlighted the benefits of a farm-to-table approach, not just in terms of flavor and nutrition, but also in fostering a mindful relationship with what we consume. This chapter of Steamy Kitchen’s history was truly foundational, shaping many of the values and perspectives that continue to guide our approach to cooking and living today, emphasizing the importance of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
The Blogging “Charlie’s Angels”: Unforgettable Parties with Ree & Elise
In the nascent, exhilarating days of food blogging, a unique bond formed between three pioneering women who, despite their distinct personalities and culinary styles, shared an undeniable passion for food and community. I’m referring, of course, to the incredible Ree Drummond of The Pioneer Woman, the brilliant Elise Bauer of Simply Recipes, and myself. We often found ourselves crossing paths at various industry functions and events, and it quickly became clear that while our individual approaches were diverse, our collective energy was a force to be reckoned with. We affectionately dubbed ourselves the “Charlie’s Angels of food blogging,” a trio united by a shared vision to inspire home cooks everywhere.
Our camaraderie wasn’t just about professional networking; it evolved into genuine friendship. We soon realized that beyond our individual blogs, we all harbored a mutual desire to host grand, memorable parties – events that would bring together fellow food enthusiasts, industry colleagues, and friends for an unforgettable experience. And so, that’s precisely what we decided to do! These gatherings were legendary, always bursting with laughter, delicious food, and lively conversation. They were a testament to the power of community and collaboration in the digital space, proving that even in a rapidly evolving online world, personal connections remain paramount, fostering both professional growth and lasting friendships.
It’s truly humbling and inspiring to reflect on how much each of us, and indeed the entire food blogging industry, has grown and evolved since those early, exciting days. From fledgling blogs to established brands, our paths have diverged and converged, but the memories of those shared moments and grand parties remain a cherished part of Steamy Kitchen’s history, a vibrant reminder of the friendships that blossomed alongside our culinary careers. These collaborative efforts not only strengthened our individual brands but also helped shape the burgeoning world of online food content.
A Culinary Milestone: Writing The Steamy Kitchen Cookbook!
Among the myriad milestones and achievements that mark Steamy Kitchen’s journey, one stands out as a truly monumental accomplishment: the creation and publication of The Steamy Kitchen Cookbook. This wasn’t just another project; it was a labor of love, a culmination of years of passion, experimentation, and dedicated recipe development. The entire experience, from the initial brainstorming sessions to the final binding of the book, was nothing short of amazing, filled with moments of both intense challenge and profound reward. It represented a tangible manifestation of all the culinary wisdom and joy we had shared online, now captured within the pages of a beautiful hardcover, accessible to every home cook.
Bringing a cookbook to life is an intricate process, demanding meticulous attention to detail, endless recipe testing, and a creative vision to weave together a cohesive and inspiring collection of dishes. Every photograph, every instruction, every story shared within its covers was crafted with the hope of empowering home cooks and bringing families together around the dinner table. The moment I held the first physical copy in my hands was absolutely surreal – a dream realized after countless hours of effort, a testament to perseverance and passion.
These images capture two defining moments from that period: my very first book signing, a truly humbling experience where I connected with so many wonderful readers who had supported Steamy Kitchen from its early days, expressing their appreciation for the recipes they’d come to love. Then, the exhilarating preparation for a segment on The Today Show. Standing backstage, knowing millions would soon see a glimpse of what Steamy Kitchen was all about, was an unforgettable mix of nerves and excitement. These experiences cemented the cookbook’s place not just as a product, but as a pivotal chapter in Steamy Kitchen’s evolving story, showcasing our growth from a digital platform to a published culinary authority and cherished resource for home chefs worldwide.
Star-Studded Holiday Ideas: Hanging Out with Jewel & David Tutera
Life at Steamy Kitchen has often presented unexpected and truly extraordinary opportunities, and one particular memory from 2011 continues to feel like a delightful dream. That year, the renowned Hallmark corporation extended an incredible invitation: to collaborate on a holiday ideas segment alongside the iconic singer Jewel and the celebrated wedding and event planning guru David Tutera. The setting for this star-studded collaboration? None other than Jewel’s beautiful ranch in Texas, a picturesque backdrop for a day dedicated to festive inspiration.
Spending an entire day immersed in creative discussions about holiday entertaining, innovative recipe ideas, and festive decor with such talented and vibrant personalities was an experience I’ll never forget. It was surreal to share insights and laughter with Jewel, whose soulful music I’ve admired for years, and David Tutera, a master of celebratory events and exquisite design. We explored various themes for making holidays special, sharing practical tips and creative tricks that resonated with our collective audiences, all while surrounded by the stunning Texan landscape. Every now and then, I still find myself pausing, pinching myself, and thinking, “Did that REALLY HAPPEN?” And the answer, always, is a resounding “Yes! It absolutely did!”
This event wasn’t just a professional highlight; it was a deeply personal one, reinforcing the notion that pursuing one’s passion can open doors to experiences far beyond imagination. It showcased the diverse reach of Steamy Kitchen, proving that culinary expertise can intersect with broader lifestyle and entertainment spheres, creating truly magical and memorable content for our cherished audience. It was a day filled with creativity, connection, and a touch of Hollywood magic that left an indelible mark on Steamy Kitchen’s journey.
A Touch of Art: When Steamy Kitchen Got Its Own Signature Bowls
Innovation and a commitment to beauty have always been at the heart of Steamy Kitchen, and one of the most delightful expressions of this philosophy came to life in 2020 with the introduction of our signature Buddha Bowls. These weren’t just any bowls; they were born from a beautiful collaboration with the incredibly talented artist Aneela Dias-D’Sousa, who meticulously sculpted each one by hand. This partnership was a true meeting of minds, blending our passion for wholesome, flavorful meals with Aneela’s exquisite artistic vision and craftsmanship, resulting in a product that is both practical and profoundly beautiful.
The concept of the Buddha Bowl – a nourishing, balanced meal served in a single, inviting vessel – perfectly aligned with Steamy Kitchen’s ethos of healthy, accessible cooking. We envisioned a bowl that was not only functional but also a piece of art in itself, enhancing the dining experience and encouraging mindful eating. Aneela’s skill brought this vision to life, creating bowls that are robust, elegantly designed, and possess a unique, organic feel. Each bowl tells a story of artisanal dedication, making every meal served in it feel special, whether it’s a simple lunch or an elaborate dinner with loved ones.
These beautiful, handcrafted Buddha Bowls have quickly become one of my top favorite aspects of our entire brand. They embody the blend of utility and artistry that we strive for, and I’m thrilled to say they are used almost daily in my own home, making every meal a little more thoughtful and enjoyable. They serve as a constant reminder that culinary joy extends beyond just the ingredients; it also encompasses the presentation and the vessels that bring our food to life, adding a touch of elegance and mindful intention to everyday dining. These bowls are a true reflection of Steamy Kitchen’s commitment to enhancing the entire cooking and eating experience.
Your Cherished Memories: A Call to the Steamy Kitchen Community
As we reflect on these incredible two decades of Steamy Kitchen, sharing laughter, learning, and countless delicious recipes, it’s truly the community that has made this journey so meaningful. Now, I turn the question to you, our wonderful readers and friends: what are your favorite moments or most cherished memories from your time with Steamy Kitchen? Perhaps a recipe that became a family staple, a cooking tip that transformed your kitchen, or a story that resonated deeply with you and inspired a new culinary adventure?
We would absolutely love to hear all about your experiences and recollections. Your stories are an invaluable part of our shared history, and they help us understand the impact Steamy Kitchen has had on your lives. Please feel free to share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comment section below. And, as always, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so profoundly for being an integral part of this incredible, ongoing journey with me. Steamy Kitchen would simply not be what it is today without your unwavering love, enthusiasm, and incredible support. Here’s to many more years of culinary adventures together, creating new memories and delicious dishes along the way!