Wendy Hector
School
CSU Northridge, Bath Spa University
Expertise
Home Cooking Techniques, Spirits & Craft Cocktails, Italian Wine
- Wendy is an avid home cook and an unabashed lover of garlic, so much so that she was once a finalist in the Gilroy Garlic Festival recipe competition
- She holds the Diploma in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is a certified specialist in Italian wines and Sherry.
- An avid traveler, Wendy's goal is to eventually visit and experience the cuisine and wine of every region in Italy.
Experience
Wendy is a freelance writer focused on the world of food and beverage. Based in California, she has covered the Bay Area dining scene for platforms including Eater SF and the San Francisco Examiner. Wendy has worked on both sides of the restaurant industry, as a bar program director and sommelier, and as restaurant critic focusing on the San Francisco Bay Area. A lover of all things potable, she holds multiple wine certifications and spent years of her career creating custom cocktails.
Education
Wendy earned both a BA and MA in creative writing, focusing on literary fiction. After years of working in restaurants, she decided to blend these two interests and pursue a career in food writing.
The Daily Meal’s content comes from an authoritative editorial staff that is dedicated to current and comprehensive coverage. With an aim to provide only informative and engaging content, our writers, editors, and experts take care to craft clear and concise copy on all things food-related, from news in the food service industry to in-depth explainers about what’s found in readers’ refrigerators, original recipes from experienced chefs, and more.
Our team also regularly reviews and updates articles as necessary to ensure they are accurate. For more information on our editorial process, view our full policies page.
Stories By Wendy Hector
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No cocktail bar should be without a bottle of bitters. Here's a guide to these essential mixology components, using them, and even how to make your own.
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Serving repeats year after year can make for stale dinners and bored diners. Mix it up with some of our best holiday side dishes and impress your guests.
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For Thanksgiving dinner, the savory flavor of a rich gravy is essential. Why not try giving your old gravy recipe new life, with one of these tasty twists?
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You can put ranch seasoning on just about anything to level up your meals and snacks. Here are the most delicious ways to use it on your food.
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If you're looking to get creative with your Crock-Pot, check out these unexpected foods you can make with this device, and add them to your regular repertoire.
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Instant mashed potatoes are a quick, easy addition to any good meal. Using a few more ingredients can transform this basic dish into a noteworthy side.
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From unconventional cooking techniques to unique toppings, there are so many ways to maximize the flavor of a hot dog while trying something new.
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We've put together some of the most fun and creative ways to use watermelon. Go ahead and stock up on this delicious summer fruit while you can.
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Instant ramen is popular because it takes very little time or money to make, requires minimal cooking skills or equipment, and it tastes delicious.
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All hail the sandwich! This versatile beauty revolutionized every meal, but they can get a little repetitive. So, here are 14 sarnie hacks you need to know.
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Chicago boasts a number of signature dishes and one of the best is the Italian beef sandwich. Here are 14 tips you'll need to make the perfect sandwich.
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With a bit of knowledge and planning, every home bartender can make cocktails as delicious and consistent as a practiced mixologist. This guide is here to help.
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Argentinian beef is so packed with flavor that it needs no adornment. But when a little extra boost is desired, there's one condiment to use: chimichurri.
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A comforting bowl of mashed potatoes is hard to beat. But if your mashed potatoes are lacking star power, here are some tips to help you give them an upgrade.
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There are many ways to maximize the bloody mary's flavor and presentation. We've put together some of the best hacks to push this cocktail to the next level.
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Sausage has been around for eons, and one familiar Italian recipe that originated in ancient Rome has even stuck around, and is still popular today.
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No matter which type of fried egg you prefer, getting a few techniques down will ensure that you're getting the most out of this breakfast staple.
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Quiche is a dish that's endured. Here, we've collected some of the best and most beloved quiche varieties, as well as some you may never have heard of before.
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Whether you start every morning with Marmite on toast, or you haven't yet had a chance to try it yet, read on to learn more about this fascinating food.
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We've compiled some of the most common missteps and how to avoid them so that you can confidently create a perfect chicken pot pie with minimum fuss.
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If you're wondering how to incorporate tomatillos into your cooking, we've got you covered. Keep this guide handy if you want to start eating more of them.
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Leave those flat, floppy slices behind for the Windy City's signature pie.
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The muffuletta is an iconic New Orleans sandwich. It is salty and tangy, thanks to its olive-based condiment and the use of savory Italian meats and cheeses.
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Roast chicken is one of those go-to comfort foods you love. But if your roast chicken isn't coming out perfect, follows these steps to make it taste better.
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For novice bourbon drinkers, it can be overwhelming to choose which brands to try. Our list of the best beginner options considers quality, flavor, and price.
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Before you toss out that leftover pickle juice, check out our list of all the different things you can do with it, from adding it to drinks, sauces, and soups.
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If you're looking for charcuterie board inspiration, here are some unconventional ingredients you can include to impress guests at your next gathering.