Hello from Florida

I stumbled upon this site doing a google search trying to solve a computer glitch and found the issue discussed on this forum.  I was instantly head over heels as I am a ex-pro chef and full-on foodie. I have over 20 years in the restaurant/catering/private chef industry at all levels of service.  My formal training is with Italian cuisine but have branched out to many others.  My darkest culinary secret is that French cuisine is my weakest, but I am versed enough to fake it well.

I am not currently employed in the culinary world because my computer skills have provided me an income and schedule that no restaurant can match.  However, I still cook for real all the time.  I am very excited to meet other chefs and foodies to learn and share and am excited to help out those who are just starting out in this wonderful world of flavor and passion. 

Pastry is an alien world to me, but I do have a 7qt kitchen aide mixer and curiosity.  I am semi-fluent in wine and amateur brewmeister.  Good food, drink, music, and company makes the world go round.

Cheers

Hoff

Hello Ishbel,  Thanks for the welcoming words, I do think I will enjoy this site very much.  I saw a post from you on another thread regarding your love of Indian food and its prevalence in the UK.  I have been toying with the differences between Authentic Indian, UK Indian, and American Indian.  I am a capsaicinaholic so I love the real deal, but people in my parts aren't so adventurous.  It seems UK style is the perfect middle-ground between Authentic and American style, so I usually emulate that in my dishes. 

btw - I am a large fan of Scots and their culture.  One of my closest friend hails from the Mcdermott clan, and I have learned much about the heritage.

Nicko - thanks also for the welcome, I'm sure we will bump into each other quite often in the future.

Cheers!

Hello Mit.  Thank you.  Have a great day as well.  EdB - greetings sir.  Just a little north of you in SLC.

Hello Linny.  Thanks, I think you are right.