Everyone likes food. But what sets these three individuals apart is that they do not only enjoy food — they create it. El Estoque found three chefs in training who were willing to share their favorite recipes.
Timothy Choi:
Junior Timothy Choi cooks for himself — whenever he’s hungry and because he’s hungry. Although this young chef usually spends his time performing uncommon culinary experiments (like a mixture of pasta, meatballs, potstickers, rice, onions, oil and spices), he does have a few signature recipes. Choi specializes in dough-based dishes such as pizza, bread and breadsticks; it isn’t surprising that he has mastered the intricate art of pizza. Choi believes that his interest in cooking facilitates conversation. “When other people like food, I can serve them food and that can start conversations — I can make connections that way,” Choi said.
Timothy Choi-Pizza from El Estoque on Vimeo.
“Homemade food tastes better than store-bought food,” junior Ashish Samaddar said. “I can make foods a little more rich than what my parents would make or buy. The entire process is fun.” Samaddar’s forte is Indian food, but he also spends his time learning the ways of American and Italian cuisines. Samaddar especially enjoys eating, baking and decorating different types of cakes — particularly cheesecake.
Ashish Samaddar- Aloo Paratha from El Estoque on Vimeo.
Navya Cherukuru:
While most simply admire the beauty of food photos on Tumblr, senior Navya Cherukuru posts them. Her creations are equally photogenic and irresistible, but diverse — Cherukuru is experienced in making butterbeer cupcakes, mango and banana pancakes, quinoa salad and a multitude of other dishes. Culinary skill runs in Cherukuru’s family. “My mom cooks a lot,” she said. “She’s a really good cook, and her Indian food is really good. My sister cooks a lot too, so we cook together and bond.”
Navya Cherukuru-Sandwich from El Estoque on Vimeo.