Whats not to love about Rachael Ray? Shes sweet, shes funny and shes a petite powerhouse in the kitchen. And last Friday, she paid Fairfield County a visit while promoting her latest book, Look and Cook. Fans converged in droves on Borders Books in Fairfield for a chance to meet Americas culinary sweetheart.
Her devotees brought babies, grandparents and treats from their own kitchens -- not to mention plenty of books awaiting autographs -- and hung around for a chance to pay homage to the daytime television personality.
Im overwhelmed, said trembling fan, Kathy Bambino of Bridgeport. Shes even more beautiful in person. I cook a meal of hers every single day.
She really does, said Kathys daughter, Gina, who works as a Fairfield Animal Control Officer. At dinner, theres always a Rachael recipe waiting on the table. Shes been doing it for at least two years.
Kathys emotion was brought on by a hug she received from Rachael after offering the lively chef cupcakes shed made for the occasion.
Theyre topped with coconut and drunken cherries, said Kathy.
Upon receiving the sweets, Rachael announced to the packed room, Thats my lunch!
No stranger to the spotlight and throngs of adoring fans, Rachael is as gracious in person as she seems on television.
Its so wonderful to get out of the studio and meet people, Rachael said. Its a great way to check in, see whos watching. Different generations of whole families come out. And its fun to see the unexpected fan, the fireman, the stay-at-home dad. Plus, I get feedback, what people liked, whats working. At the end of every event, I make a laundry list of fan comments and I incorporate it into what I do.
As for what fans can expect from her latest cookbook, she says, Its really the biggest value book Ive done so far. Its like a paint-by-numbers guide to dozens of recipes. And were trying to keep it relevant, so weve introduced an online companion to the book. So you can literally be in your kitchen with your computer and your cookbook and cook along with me.
Shes even introduced something for the underage culinary prodigy. Theres a section in the book for kids who like to cook, with cartoons and childrens recipes, Rachael said. In this book, theres really something for everyone.
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