Summary

In this conversation, Lisa Davis and Caitlin Prettyman discuss the joy of Mexican food, particularly in California. They explore the flavors and ingredients that make Mexican cuisine so delicious, including essential Cal-Mex ingredients and pantry staples. They also share recipes for various Mexican-inspired dishes, such as crispy shrimp and mango salad, black bean tostadas with street corn-style salsa, and tequila lime chicken wings. Caitlin provides tips for cooking flavorful and moist chicken burgers, steak, and pork chops. The conversation highlights the importance of fresh ingredients and the versatility of Mexican flavors. In this conversation, Caitlin Prettyman discusses her new cookbook, 'Fast and Fresh CalMex Cooking,' which features West Coast-inspired dinners that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less. She shares her love for Mexican cuisine and the inspiration behind her recipes. Caitlin also talks about the importance of flavor and using better-for-you ingredients in her cooking. She mentions some of her favorite recipes from the book and provides tips for quick and easy meal preparation. The conversation concludes with information on where to find Caitlin and her work.

Keywords: Mexican food, California, flavors, ingredients, recipes, cooking tips, cookbook, CalMex cooking, Mexican cuisine, flavor, quick and easy recipes

Takeaways

• Mexican food in California is known for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients.
• Essential Cal-Mex ingredients and pantry staples include smoked paprika, cumin, Chipotle chili powder, and fresh produce.
• Recipes for Mexican-inspired dishes can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as dairy-free or vegan options.
• Marinating meat in flavorful sauces or marinades can enhance its tenderness and taste.
• Mexican cuisine offers a wide range of flavors, from spicy and smoky to sweet and savory. Caitlin Prettyman's cookbook, 'Fast and Fresh CalMex Cooking,' features West Coast-inspired dinners that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less.
• The recipes in the book focus on flavor and use better-for-you ingredients.
• Caitlin shares some of her favorite recipes from the book, including crispy shrimp and pavano tacos and cilantro orange chicken bites.
• She provides tips for quick and easy meal preparation, such as using an air fryer and prepping ingredients in advance.

Sound Bites

• "I felt like I won the lottery because about 24 years ago I moved from California to the East Coast and yes I would miss my friends but the main thing I was concerned about was missing really good Mexican food."
• "There's just so much good food, especially Mexican food, because we are so close to the border."
• "Oh my gosh, Caitlin, if you came to the East coast, especially in Massachusetts, you would be so disappointed. It is, now I will say we have found a couple of good places where I say it's close, it's not quite California, but it's also $25 for a burrito."
• "I can make this better at home."
• "I've always been interested in food."
• "That is probably the hardest part of this job and writing a cookbook, honestly."

Chapters00:00The Joy of Mexican Food in California
02:41Essential Cal-Mex Ingredients and Pantry Staples
06:04Delicious Mexican-Inspired Recipes for Every Taste
09:02Tips for Cooking Flavorful and Moist Chicken, Steak, and Pork
11:07The Versatility of Mexican Flavors
07:29Inspiration for 'Fast and Fresh CalMex Cooking'
25:02Favorite Recipes from the Book
31:32Tips for Quick and Easy Meal Preparation
37:59Connect with Caitlin Prettyman and California Cravings