My husband, Matt, and I enjoying beers at Odell Brewing's beautiful patio.
Welcome to Burrata and Bubbles! I'm Amanda, a cheese-obsessed, comfort food-loving home cook. For me, cooking isn't just about creating a tasty dish; it's also about connecting over a shared meal. Playing hostess and pleasing people through food make my soul happy, so here you will find recipes I love cooking for my favorite people.
I also love a good beverage, hence the Bubbles of Burrata. And, yes, that certainly means a glass of crisp prosecco or fun cocktail, but I'm also a craft beer nerd.
Back in 2004, I spent the summer in Lubbock, Texas, and waited tables at the town's only brewery at the time. On my first day, the brewmaster took me on a tour and explained the brewing process and different beer styles. As a college kid who partially existed on Keystone Light, I was instantly hooked. Before then, I had never even considered the artistry behind brewing. I went into that job just planning to make a little extra summer cash but had no idea that experience would spawn such a passion.
Part of what fascinates me about the beer journey is the way your palate continues to change. When I first started at the brewery, the kolsch was my favorite while the oatmeal stout was too heavy and IPAs overwhelmed me. Oh, how times change. These days, I'm especially partial to IPAs and sour and wild ales, but my absolute favorite style is a big, bold barrel-aged imperial stout. If you're new to the craft beer craze, my biggest piece of advice is to try as much as you can and keep an open mind. What doesn't mesh with you now could turn into your favorite style.
Given my love of cooking and drinking culture, you'll find a pairing suggestion with each recipe. I love the way complementary and contrasting flavors and textures play together and believe a good pairing can elevate a meal. Plus, pairings are just fun.
Don't leave pork roast unattended when this puppy is nearby.
My favorite kitchen assistant
We adopted Baylor in 2011 when she was a rambunctious 8-month-old puppy, and she quickly established herself as quite the foodie. After about two weeks of forming our little family, I made a pork roast for dinner. Matt and I were enjoying our meal and a beautiful summer evening when something caught the corner of our eye. We looked over to find Baylor counter surfing and inhaling as much pork as she could. I ran over to let her know we generally frown upon food thievary, and she gave me a look that said, "Eh, it was worth it." She's a sassy one.
Baylor has her own few culinary favorites. If she were to design her perfect food, it'd be a spaghetti-popcorn burrito. Baylor is also a big fan of ham hands. What are ham hands? Ham hands are when you touch ham, and then Baylor licks off the flavor remnants. Don't worry. I wash my hands after Baylor gets her ham fix.
I hope you stick around, try the recipes and share your experiences. Cheers!