Blogger Spotlight: Platter Talk
This week, we're proud to feature Dan and Scott Zehr of Platter Talk 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 — from fine dining to home cooking.
Dan and Scott Zehr are based in Neenah, Wisconsin — located in Eastern Wisconsin — and together run their blog Platter Talk. The two are fathers to six sons and a Chihuahua named Buddy Guy. They share recipes that reflect their lifestyles, ranging from desserts to Sunday suppers to gluten-free dishes. They also have a section of their blog called Food Flash, which focuses on cooking and kitchen tips.
The Daily Meal: What is the mission of your blog?
Dan and Scott Zehr: Our mission is to provide a variety of food ideas from simple and convenient family Sunday suppers to more elegant and sophisticated menu suggestions for special occasions.
How'd you get started with blogging?
Dan has been a photography enthusiast since second grade and started writing short stories even earlier. Both Dan and Scott grew up with great cooks in their respective families and through Platter Talk all these forces come together for something wonderful.
What are some foods you can't live without?
Pizza, wine, seafood, wine, desserts, wine... you get the picture.
What are some foods you can't stand?
We have yet to find them.
What is your proudest blog post?
Our Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli, which took the top honor for the Tyson Chicken Recipe Challenge.
What is your biggest blog blunder?
We haven't had too many misses. Recently, we were featured guests on a local television morning show where we were asked to grill outside. Minutes before the segmen, we discovered that the gas grill did not have propane. With some rearranging of the program and someone who knew how to solve the problem, the issue was fixed and we made a few delicious foods on the grill. None of the viewers were the wiser.
What is your most memorable comment from a reader?
We try to respond to all of our readers, personally. Our most memorable was from a mom who had recently lost a young daughter. Her daughter had fallen in love with one of our desserts and it had become a standard in their family. The mom went on to say that through our recipe, their daughter's memory was kept alive within their family and around their dinner table. That one made us cry.
What's on your cooking playlist?
Dan: I love this question because when I'm "in the studio" (making a mess in the kitchen), I always enjoy the company of some awesome tunes. For lighter, more elegant fare, I'll often ask the likes of Ella Fitzgerald or Cole Porter to join us. If I'm making something new and adventurous, I may invite Fergie and the Black Eyed Peas to the kitchen. And, for the most part, the Dixie Chicks are welcome just about any time.
What are your favorite food blogs?
There are just too many to love but some of our favorites are Fearless Dining, Simply Sated, Bunny's Warm Oven, and Cooking on a Budget.
Favorite food apps?
Dan: I love Calorie Count because it provides the nutritional analysis of any recipe.
What is the best thing about blogging?
We make Platter Talk a family activity. It's an endeavor that all six of our boys take pride and interest in. Plus, we love good food! [pullquote:right]
Worst things about blogging?
There simply aren't enough hours in the day to get it all done.
What recipe are currently obsessed with?
Dan: Our Balsamic Mushroom Pizza with Caramelized Shallots & Microgreens. It's one that came to me in a vision and once I put it in the oven, it turned out exactly how I had imagined. It's just heavenly.
What would even your most loyal followers be surprised to learn about you?
Dan grew up milking cows and Scott grew up in inner-city Detroit.
Five of your all-time favorite posts: