Blogger Spotlight: FoodFash
This week, we're proud to feature Kristin Vrana in the Blogger Spotlight. For those new to the column, every Friday, we highlight a member of The Daily Meal's Culinary Content Network, a limited group of bloggers who write about food and drink.
We look to this group of talented food writers for inspiration and participation in The Daily Meal, whether for restaurant recommendations or new recipes to try out for dinner. Our editorial team covers All Things Food and Drink, and we tap the CCN to keep up to speed on what is happening around the country and the world — whether that means fine dining or home cooking.
Kristin Vrana hails from Austin, Texas, and started FoodFash back in 2009. She wanted an outlet where she could combine her passions for cooking, photography, and writing, so she turned to blogging as a hobby. Vrana shares simple and healthy recipes for her readers to try out and enjoy.
The Daily Meal: What is the mission of your blog?
Kristin Vrana: To share simple, delicious, and beautiful recipes that leave people feeling happy, inside and out.
How'd you get started?
I started FoodFash as a creative outlet — a place to combine my loves of cooking, writing, and photography.
What are some foods you can't live without?
Eggs, spinach, madai nigiri, and strawberries.
What are some foods you can't stand?
Papaya and sea urchin.
Which blog post are you most proud of?
This Hot Italian Sausage and Broccoli post was recently featured on a Huffington Post article. I was really flattered to be included in an article that aligned so much with my food philosophy.
What is your biggest blog blunder?
My biggest blog blunder was thinking that a WordPress backup plugin backed up all of my media content. The first time I was hacked, I lost years of photos that are still missing to this day. Huge Vaultpress fan now!
What is your most memorable comment from a reader?
About four years ago, my mom left a comment as "FoodFash Mom," and she's referred to herself on the blog and in real life as FoodFash Mom since then. I think she does it to be cute, but I consider it the ultimate form of support.
What is on your cooking playlist?
I listen to albums in their entirety when I'm in the kitchen. My go-to albums are Broken Social Scene's self-titled album; Interpol's "Turn on the Bright Lights"; Diamond Rings' "Special Affections"; Yeah Yeah Yeah's "Show Your Bones"; Alvvays' self-titled album; and Au Revoir Simone's "Still Night, Still Light."
What are your favorite food blogs?
Joy the Baker, Minimalist Baker, Little Leopard Book, Camille Styles, and Love & Lemons.
Any favorite food apps?
Does Pinterest count?
What is the best thing about blogging?
The best thing is being someone who creates — a maker.
Worst thing about blogging?
The worst thing is self-pressure and always eating cold food.
Do you have a recipe you're currently obsessed with?
I seared and roasted lamb loins the other day with only salt and pepper and the right amount of oil. Now I can't stop thinking of what I'll sear next!
What would even your most loyal followers be surprised to learn about you?
I'm a quarter Japanese. I don't think I've ever addressed that in a post.
Five of your all-time favorite posts: