August 2013

Gourmet Jay Presents... Chef Ron Howard

Owner, Chef Ron's Catering Service
Email: chefrhoward@gmail.com
Facebook: Chef Ron's Catering

 

 

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Chef Ron, thank you for taking the time to share your culinary visions with our viewers. We've known each other since childhood and have come a long way since growing up in Westchester County.

GJ - When you were young, growing up in Port Chester, what did you want to be?

A - I wanted to become a famous artist.

GJ - At what point in your life did you decide to become a chef? What influenced you to do so?

A - During my high school years, I attended a home economics class which influenced me greatly to become a chef.

Given the current levels of obesity, heart disease and other illnesses arguably brought on by poor diet in this country, do chefs have a duty to educate people about healthy alternatives and offering responsible choices?

A - Yes, I am always looking at different ways to make food taste good without having to use heavy and harsh ingredients that will affect your overall health.

GJ - If you could give a word of advice to an aspiring chef, what would you say?

A - Hard work and dedication are keys to a successful career in the culinary field.

GJ - If you could prepare a meal for anyone (past or present), who would it be?

A - Maya Angelou

GJ - Where do you find inspiration for your dishes and plating?

A - Magazines, food shows and the passion to try different dishes.

GJ - What do you predict as the next big cooking trend?

A - A lot of people today are very health conscious, and eating steamed foods with little or no fat is essential. The use of pressure cookers and steamers are becoming more trendy.

GJ - Who is the most famous person or group you have ever cooked for?

A - President Bill Clinton, Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Evander Holyfield, Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier just to name a few...

GJ - What innovation has recently influenced the restaurant industry in a significant way?

A - Social Media has become a big part in the industry with customers referring others to try out restaurants they frequently visit.

GJ - What do you do to stay educated about new trends?

A - I stay abreast of the latest trends by reading industry magazines, watching food and cooking shows, plugging into social media and brainstorming with my peers.

GJ - Tell me about an career accomplishment that you are most proud of.

A - Becoming a Director of Food and Beverage. I began my career as a line cook and achieving this position in the industry is a rewarding experience.

GJ - Tell me something you would like to learn or improve upon.

A - I would like to learn more about decorative wedding cakes.

What's your favorite kitchen tool? Is there a kitchen tool or gadget that you can’t live without?

A - A blender and a good knife.

What is your favorite dish to prepare at home?

A - Jerk chicken, beans and rice and assorted flavored wings.

What is the weirdest food you have ever consumed? Weirdest ingredient ever used?

A - Alligator with my family in Gulf Shores.

What’s something that people would be interested to know about you?

A - I am an avid hat collector and love all New York teams. I am a father of four and have been married for 20 years.