Stephen Colbert and his wife, Evie McGee Colbert, prove that humor and cooking can make a great recipe for connection. Their new cookbook is a delightful mix of cherished family recipes and a guide to navigating culinary adventures together.
During the pandemic, the Colberts found solace and joy in their kitchen. Collaborating on homemade meals led them to discover a new side of their relationship, resulting in their cookbook, ‘Does This Taste Funny?’. Their journey is a testament to the therapeutic power of cooking with a loved one.
The Joy of Cooking Together
Stephen and Evie Colbert emphasize the importance of having fun in the kitchen. ‘You have to not take it so seriously,’ Evie advises, especially for those who feel insecure about their cooking skills. Stephen adds that a glass of wine and some music can make all the difference in creating a relaxed atmosphere for cooking.
Their approach to cooking together originated during the pandemic. Confined to their home, the kitchen became a place of discovery and collaboration for the couple. It was during this time that they realized how much they enjoyed working together, a surprising revelation for both Stephen and Evie.
A Culinary Comedy Duo
The Colberts’ cookbook isn’t just about recipes; it’s also about their humorous journey in the kitchen. Stephen recalls their early days of marriage and an incident known as the ‘spoon story.’ This mishap, involving a metal spoon and a nonstick pan, became a defining moment in their kitchen dynamics.
Evie recalls using a metal spatula on their new nonstick pots, to which Stephen humorously overreacted, suggesting they annul the marriage. This story, now a source of laughter, marked the beginning of their evolving roles in the kitchen.
Different Styles, One Kitchen
Evie describes herself as an insecure cook who often gets emotional about her culinary endeavors. She shares that a friend once gave her an apron that read ‘no emo cooking’ to remind her to stay calm in the kitchen.
If left to cook alone, Evie admits she might settle for a simple meal like cereal. In contrast, Stephen enjoys experimenting with ambitious recipes and follows his instincts to create new dishes. For him, cooking is a magical process that allows his imagination to thrive.
Stephen’s passion for cooking traces back to his childhood. As the youngest of 11, he had the freedom to experiment in the kitchen as long as he didn’t burn it down. This early exposure fostered his love for cooking and his willingness to try new things.
Cooking on The Late Show
Stephen’s cooking prowess often comes into play on his show, especially during segments with guest chefs. He mentions the joy of having renowned chefs like Daniel Boulud and Jose Andres on the show, noting that the segments are more about entertainment than actual cooking.
A memorable episode involved Jose Andres and Stephen dancing despite Stephen suffering from a burst appendix. The segment, which Stephen completed while in significant pain, showcases his commitment to entertaining his audience, even under challenging circumstances.
Balancing Humor and Seriousness
This blend of humor and seriousness is a hallmark of the Colberts’ approach to life and cooking. Stephen reveals his dream of having the Pope participate in a cooking segment, highlighting his ability to mix light-hearted fun with profound moments.
Stephen’s aspiration to cook with the Pope stems from his experience narrating the Pope’s memoir, which includes stories about the Pope’s culinary heritage. He imagines a segment where they prepare the Pope’s family recipe for tortellini en brodo, combining elements of faith and food.
Lessons from a Culinary Partnership
The Colberts’ journey in the kitchen offers valuable lessons in partnership and patience. Evie’s learning to relax and Stephen’s enjoyment of the creative process reflect their complementary styles and mutual respect.
Their story underscores the therapeutic value of cooking together. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the shared experience, the laughter, and the connection that cooking fosters.
Embracing Culinary Curiosity
Stephen’s curiosity in the kitchen is evident in his willingness to try new combinations, like morels with parsnips or pear with almond and bourbon. His approach encourages a sense of culinary adventure and experimentation.
The Colberts’ cookbook is more than a collection of recipes; it’s a celebration of their journey together in the kitchen. Their story highlights the joy, humor, and therapeutic benefits of cooking as a couple.
Through their culinary adventures, Stephen and Evie show that the kitchen can be a place to strengthen bonds, share laughter, and create lasting memories. Their unique approach offers inspiration for anyone looking to bring a bit of fun and connection into their cooking routine.
Source: Bonappetit