I am a Biologist, working on wildlife diseases. Living with two dogs and two conures & a husband...

...I spend the weekends with. Love to travel & cook. Learning to be an artist.

How long have you been a Daring Baker/Daring Cook and what’s your favorite thing about being in the group(s) so far?

Just participated in my first challenge in March! Love that I am trying a recipe that many others are also trying and seeing all the innovations.

What’s your favorite kitchen gadget? How about your favorite kitchen appliance?

Chef’s knife is the favorite gadget. A multi-processing blender is my all time favorite appliance.

Are you known for making a certain dish or dessert? If so, what is it?

Tiramisu

You’ve just won $5000.00!!! What would you spend it on?

Right now – send it to Haiti.

What is the ultimate comfort food to you?

Idli – a south Indian rice cake with coconut chutney

Which season (Winter, Summer, Spring, Fall) is your favorite.. why?

Summer – all that time to spend in a garden in Wisconsin.

Other than cooking and/or baking.. what hobbies do you enjoy?

I paint on glass and canvas.

How long have you been blogging? Do you like it? What’s your favorite post you’ve written?

For more than 3 years now. Been a lot of fun. Recently writing more recipes.

What’s your favorite cookbook for desserts/baking? What’s your favorite cookbook for savory/cooking?

Have quite a few. Just got Baking by James Peterson for Valentine’s day. Think that’s going to be a favorite. Love Sundays @ Moosewood restaurant for cooking.

What’s your favorite flower and/or plant?

Geraniums and Lilies.

Reading any good books lately? Which ones?!

Books by Atul Gawande – Complications and Checklist Manifesto.

You’ve had a rough week. How do you relax after a rough week?

Sleep in, Hearty brunch, play with my pets.

Do you have a food addiction?

Sugar

What’s your favorite “sweet” spice? How about your favorite “savory” spice?

Sweet spice is cardamom. Savory spice is cumin.

What’s your favorite herb to cook or bake with? Do you prefer fresh or dried?

Mint is an absolute favorite. Fresh is always better.

Is there one recipe on your blog that you would like to share with us? If so, leave the link here.

Mango – Sweet Potaoes Curry from Laos. Tried this dish at a restaurant and made it with almost perfect resemblance in both looks and taste.

Do you have a time saving kitchen tip you’d like to share with us?

One pot meals in a pressure cooker.

You can visit Bala on her blog A Life Journey Together