Cat Cora Peanut Butter Reese’s Cups Are My Weakness

Cat Cora Peanut Butter Reese’s Cups Are My Weakness - Chef Cat Cora is a one-woman culinary force. The first and only female “Iron Chef,” who was mentored by Julia Child, she was named Bon Appetit‘s teacher of the year in 2006 and now acts as the magazine’s executive chef as well as a Food Network staple. This fall she is also opening a signature restaurant in Costa Mesa, Calif. And did we mention she’s pulling all this off while raising two young sons and taking time to give us a peek into her tasty world? Read on to find out what makes this chef purr, get fabulous recipes, and learn which everyday candy makes her melt. —Erika Lenkert

What’s always in your refrigerator?
Cheeses, pepperoncini, yogurt.

What’s your house wine or
other beverage?
Trapiche Malbec, pinot noirs from Beringer and La Crema, Fresca, soy milk, Fat Tire beer, Crysal Light, and lots of bottles of water.

Favorite cocktail?
Mango margarita:
1 1/4 ounces silver tequila
1 ounce triple sec
2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
2 ounces simple syrup
3/4 cup partially frozen mango, unsweetened (prefer individual quick-frozen or fresh)
1 sprig mint

Place the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, simple syrup, and mango in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and add a sprig of mint.

Favorite olive oil?
Great Greeks.

Your guiltiest food pleasure?
Anything with peanut butter. Reese’s Cups are my weakness.

Is there anything that ensures a guest won’t be invited to your
next party?
A downer, anyone who’s negative—it’s bad for digestion.

What traits do you look for in a dining companion?
Easy conversation and down-to-earth.