Chef Chat: Jen Turner
- Details
- Published on Friday, 25 February 2011 13:34
- Written by Matt Robinson
By the way, when you finally get it right, Blue Tierra does wedding catering!
How did you get into cooking?
I remember being a kid and having this children's cookbook that I loved. When my mom wasn't home I would try to make the recipes with whatever ingredients we had(which most of the time turned to disaster). Later in life, after going to college for 2 years I dropped out, thinking there was something else I could be spending my time doing. I remember walking by Cambridge School of Culinary Arts on Mass Ave one day, and thought cooking school seemed perfect for me, and I was determined that I was going to go there. It seemed like a fun, creative, and active profession. It was the best decision I've made.
Where was your first professional kitchen experience?
I worked for Finale in their commissary in Charlestown for a very short period of time.
What is your favorite dish to prepare?
For other people, a whole roasted chicken with stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and some veggie. It's so basic but so tasty.
What is the best part of your job?
Being able to create new flavors/designs for my chocolates. I love taking a favorite cocktail and turning it into a candy! Or a spice from a specific country and tying it into the design of the chocolate. For example, our Bengal Tiger is a chai tea infused milk chocolate. Chai tea originates in India and the design is tiger stripes for the Bengal, which is a national animal in India.
Who is your favorite chef in Boston?
I don't think I have a favorite chef. I have favorite places to go, but they don't have a celebrity chef. I just love good food, that isn't over worked. I used to work with Zee Vassos (now of Beacon Street Tavern) who always made great dishes. I am a vegetarian and some of the favorite meals I make came from him. He uses fresh ingredients, and knows how to take simple dishes and make them unique and delicious without being pretentious. Plus he's got a friendly ,laid back attitude which is rare with chef's.
What do you usually make for yourself at home?
Honestly? Unless I am cooking for others, I don't "cook" a lot for just me. I hate leftovers, so... Most of the time I make what I call my naan bread pizzas, which really consist of the naan bread, veggies, and a little cheese of some sort. Its really quick, and relatively healthy.
If you could dine with any three people, who would they be?
I'll dine with anyone who wants to take me (laughs). Well I guess I would say Julia Child, because I love her cook books and she seems like she would be a fun time, and my best friend, because I know she's always a good time. And last but not least, probably Martha Stewart. She took something so small, and made an empire! I have a million questions I would ask her.
Jen Turner
Blue Tierra Chocolate Cafe
258 West Broadway
South Boston, MA 02127
