Marian Burros Quotes

Powerful Marian Burros for Daily Growth

About Marian Burros

Marian Burros (January 27, 1936 - February 15, 2013) was an acclaimed American food writer, journalist, and cookbook author, whose work greatly influenced the culinary world of the late 20th century. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Burros grew up in a family that valued good food and cooking, instilling in her a lifelong passion for both. After studying political science at Radcliffe College, Burros began her journalism career at The New York Times in 1960, where she initially worked as an assistant editor on the metropolitan desk. In 1972, she transitioned to food writing, becoming one of the first female food columnists for the paper. Her column, "On Food," became a staple of The New York Times Magazine and ran until her retirement in 2012. Throughout her career, Burros wrote extensively on various culinary topics, with an emphasis on healthy, home-cooked meals. She authored several influential cookbooks, including "The New York Times Cookbook" (1980), "Food Processor Recipes" (1978), and "Quick Vegetarian Pleasures" (1996). In addition to her written work, Burros was a frequent guest on television programs such as Good Morning America and The Today Show. She also appeared in numerous food documentaries, sharing her expertise and passion for cooking with a wider audience. Marian Burros's impact on the culinary world is immeasurable. Her focus on healthy, accessible, and delicious meals continues to inspire home cooks and professional chefs alike. Her work serves as an enduring testament to the power of good food to bring people together and enrich our lives.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Cooking is at once child's play and adult joy."

This quote by Marian Burros highlights that cooking, while a fundamental life skill often taught to children, also provides adults with a unique sense of enjoyment. It suggests that the process of cooking, from following simple recipes to experimenting with new dishes, can be a source of delight and creativity for individuals of all ages. Furthermore, it implies that the act of cooking not only serves practical purposes but also provides an outlet for personal expression and growth.


"Food is essential stuff for life, but it's also one of the primary ways that we express love."

This quote emphasizes that food plays a dual role in our lives: it sustains us physically, but also serves as an expression of affection and love. Preparing meals for someone, especially those we care about, is often seen as a way to show love, caring, and thoughtfulness. The act of sharing a meal together can bring people closer and strengthen relationships. It's not just about the nourishment provided, but also the emotional connection and warmth created by breaking bread with others.


"A good recipe isn't enough: You need a certain instinct to find the right blend of flavors."

This quote suggests that cooking is not just about following a recipe, but also about having an innate sense for combining flavors effectively. It implies that even with a good recipe, a cook needs the intuition and creativity to adjust seasonings, spices, or other ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will result in a delicious dish.


"Cooking isn't about following recipes, it's about learning techniques and ingredients."

This quote suggests that cooking is more than just adhering to a set of instructions (recipes). It emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental techniques and familiarizing oneself with various ingredients to become proficient in the kitchen. Mastering these basics allows for creativity, flexibility, and the ability to adapt recipes or even create one's own unique dishes.


"Cooking is one of those things that you can get good at just by doing it." - Marian Burros

This quote emphasizes the practical aspect of learning cooking skills, suggesting that proficiency in culinary arts can be achieved through regular practice rather than formal education or innate talent. The more one cooks, the better they become at it, as experience provides a valuable foundation for improving techniques, understanding flavors, and mastering various dishes over time.


Today's restaurant is theater on a grand scale.

- Marian Burros

Today, Restaurant, Theater, Scale

If Broadway shows charge preview prices while the cast is in dress rehearsal, why should restaurants charge full price when their dining room and kitchen staffs are still practicing?

- Marian Burros

Dress, Broadway, Preview, Kitchen

It may not be possible to get rare roast beef but if you're willing to settle for well done, ask them to hold the sweetened library paste that passes for gravy.

- Marian Burros

May, Willing, Roast Beef, Gravy

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