What exactly is a personal chef?
A personal chef is a small business owner who serves several different clients, usually one per day, and provides multiple meals that are custom-designed for your particular requests and requirements. These meals are packaged and stored, so you may enjoy them at your leisure in the future.
Do you cook in my kitchen?
Yes. Because of Missouri health regulations, food must be prepared in your home. On the agreed-upon cooking day, I will shop for the groceries for your meals and bring them to your home, along with my own pots, pans and utensils. All I need is a clean sink, counter space and a working range and oven. At the end of the day, I will leave your kitchen clean and full of the aroma of home cooking.
I’m on a special diet. How will my eating preferences be accommodated?
My service includes an initial consultation that will help me determine your specific needs. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, on a low-fat, low-sodium or low-carb diet, or if you or a family member are allergic to certain foods, I will work with you to provide menus customized to meet your tastes and specifications. I rely on your feedback and will always be flexible regarding your personal preferences.
What kind of ingredients do you use?
Unless you prefer otherwise, I will choose the best organic produce, sustainably raised meats, poultry and seafood whenever possible.
Do I need to be home during a scheduled cook time?
Not at all. Arrangements to determine how best to provide me access to your home are made before I arrive on your cook day. It’s actually a benefit for both of us that interruptions are kept to a minimum so I can work safely and efficiently.
How long will it take?
I will arrive at your home in the morning after shopping for the perishable ingredients required for your meals, usually at around 9 or 9:30. Since I will be preparing several entrées and side dishes from scratch, cooking time can take several hours (usually between 3 to 5 hours). I will work with you to find a schedule that fits into your schedule.
What kind of packaging and containers are used?
At your consultation, I will go over the options for storage containers. Choices include disposable containers and bags as well as durable, reusable containers. It is important to use uniform-size containers, which take up less space in your refrigerator and allow you to store your meals in appropriate portion sizes.
How much refrigerator/freezer space is required?
That will depend on the number of meals requested and the type of containers used, but usually a minimum of one refrigerator shelf or crisper drawer and approximately 2 cubic feet of freezer space is required.
Do I heat the food?
Yes. Depending on the entrée, I will leave easy-to-follow heating and assembling instructions so you can enjoy your meals at their peak of flavor.
How often will I need the service?
My service is to prepare fresh meals that will be waiting for you when you need them – depending on how many meals you order, whether or not you travel, dine out at restaurants a few nights a week or just need a night off from cooking every now and then. I can come to your home weekly, bi-weekly or once a month. Whatever schedule you choose, I will accommodate your busy lifestyle without putting any pressure on you.
I can taste all your yummy foods now, especially on the nights I get home late from seeing clients, and it’s a relief to know that all the meals you make are healthy and food we love.
Great service, thanks again.
PS: Tim wants to talk you about providing meals for his business lunches.
I love knowing that my service can help make people’s lives easier!
Congratulations on this exciting new chapter in your life! I loved reading about how you started your love for cooking — I, too remember standing on a little step stool so I could reach the kitchen table to stir the brownie batter. Now I’m selling chocolate mousse cakes to restaurants, and you’re the answer to every busy person’s dream! Will you be sharing recipes?
Hugs!
Thanks, Jonna Rae! I would love to try one of your chocolate mousse cakes! And, yes, I will be sharing recipes in future blog posts. Your question also makes me realize I should probably add a “Recipes” page after I put a collection together. . .