Carolina Gelen Shares the Comfort Meal That Reminds Her of Home

Carolina Gelen Shares the Comfort Meal That Reminds Her of Home

Introduction
Carolina Gelen is a well-known foodie with over a million followers on Instagram, thanks to her mouth-watering recipes and beautiful presentation. Raised in Romania, Gelen’s dishes often feature traditional flavors from her homeland, which she combines with fresh, innovative twists. Here, we chat with her about her upcoming cookbook, "Pass the Plate", and gain insight into what makes her recipes so delicious.

What Makes Pass the Plate Unique?

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Gelen’s cookbook "Pass the Plate" boasts a collection of pantry-friendly, innovative recipes that add a unique twist to traditional dishes. Her recipes aim to demystify the cooking process, making complex dishes approachable for beginners. Each recipe includes time-estimated and visual cues for clarity.

Shaved Cauliflower Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Parmesan

Gelen shares her nostalgic recipe, inspired by her childhood and her mother’s cooking techniques. Thinly sliced cauliflower, salt, and parmesan cheese create a refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a light side dish.

Accompanying Fish Perfectly

Gelen’s signature salad pairs well with various fish options, especially oily fish that can stand up to the bright, tangy dressing. Its crisp texture and subtle sweetness ensure a harmonious combination of flavors.

Favorite Comfort Food: Buttered Noodles with Melting Onions and Cabbage (Tăiței cu Varză)

Growing up in Romania, Gelen’s childhood comfort meal was her mother’s tăiței cu varză, buttered noodles served with sautéed onions and cabbage. Gelen notes that these soft, comforting noodles remind her of her childhood and hold a special place in her heart.

Faq

Q: What does ‘eating well’ mean to you?

A: Listening to your body and nourishing it with the best foods that make you happy, sometimes sweet treats and other times light and fresh salads.

Q: Favorite meal of the day? Do you have a go-to meal?

A: Dinner, always! Quick meals or elaborate, dinner is a time to pause and refuel. Currently, Gelen enjoys simple one-pot meals and hearty soups.

Q: How did you balance your cultural heritage with American tastes and ingredients?

A: It’s all about balance and experimentation. Experimenting with new ingredients helps me maintain a connection with my roots while incorporating different flavors.

Q: Have you encountered any challenges adapting to your new home while maintaining your cultural identity through food?

A: Some people initially misunderstood my desire to keep traditional recipes due to unfamiliarity. Yet, my passion for blending cultures helped me find kindred spirits who appreciated this unique fusion.

Conclusion
Gelen’s warmth and love for food shine throughout her interviews, inspiring countless readers and food enthusiasts around the world. With a new cookbook on the way, it’s exciting to see where her culinary journey will take her next. Meanwhile, "Pass the Plate" offers a chance for readers to experience Gelen’s story and the art of nourishing the self through the power of shared meals.