Irma S. Rombauer Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Good cooking begins not in the kitchen but at the market."

This quote emphasizes that the quality of a meal starts not just with the culinary skills, but more fundamentally with the selection of ingredients. The fresher and higher quality the ingredients, the better the potential outcome of the dish. Therefore, it is crucial to source good produce from a reliable market or supplier, as this forms the foundation for creating exceptional dishes.

"If you are afraid of heights and of being sick, do not become a cook."

This quote suggests that cooking can be both physically demanding (due to working at heights, such as reaching for high shelves or pots on stoves) and potentially nauseating (from strong odors, spices, or improper handling of food). Therefore, those who are afraid of heights or prone to motion sickness may find cooking challenging and should be aware of these potential difficulties before pursuing it as a profession or hobby.

"Fish is a delicate food which withstands much when cooked but is affected by the slightest improper handling before cooking."

This quote emphasizes that fish, being a delicate food item, requires careful treatment to preserve its quality during preparation. Improper handling prior to cooking can negatively impact the taste and texture of fish. Despite its ability to withstand harsh cooking methods, it's essential to treat fish gently before cooking to ensure the best possible outcome in terms of flavor and consistency.

"One should always eat in company or at least be seen."

This quote suggests that social interaction is an essential aspect of dining, implying that eating alone can be less enjoyable and may even feel somewhat odd or incongruous. The phrase "at least be seen" indicates a desire for the experience of dining to involve some form of connection with others, either physically present or virtually through sharing the meal's details. Essentially, this quote highlights the importance of companionship and social engagement in enhancing our dining experiences.

"There are more ways than one of skinning a cat." (This quote reflects her emphasis on versatility and creativity in the kitchen, not a cruelty toward animals as often misunderstood)

This quote by Irma S. Rombauer emphasizes the importance of versatility and creativity in the culinary arts. She suggests that there are multiple methods or approaches to achieve the same result, much like the various ways one can "skin a cat" (in this context, metaphorically referring to solving a problem or completing a task). It's a reminder to cooks to think outside the box and experiment with different techniques to create unique dishes.