Chef LaLa’s the Consummate Hispanic Businesswoman

Hispanic businesswoman Chef LaLa

 

 

Your second book, Best Loved Mexican Cooking with Chef LaLa has just been published.  What new or different ground does it cover compared to your first book?

This book is more a compilation of the foods I personally grew up with living in America and being Mexican. My father and mother were very involved in the project. And this time around, even though there is not an emphasis on “lite” or “healthy” in the title of the book, I did include nutritional information for each recipe.

You can eat taquitos, just make sure you do the math so as not exceed the amount of fat and calories that is right for you-moderation is key. The book includes a lot of my favorites like Birria, huevos, divorciados, tres leches cake and so much more. The recipes are easy and authentic, and the book also includes an illustration of every recipe.

You are involved with several health related organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and Para Los Ninos among others.  Could you relate some of your activities in this area? 

I used to be shy about my community involvement, but now I realize a good attitude is contagious and I felt everyone what I am doing, just in case it inspires them to help others and change lives. I try to make a difference through innovative giving and volunteering.

I believe in educational outreach, which builds strong and productive communities, communities in which individuals have the chance to learn about health, opportunity and the well being of children, which is essential to the prosperity and vitality of our communities around the world. As I like to say, ” It is good to let a little sunshine out as well as in. “

What do you suggest to today’s over-scheduled urban families that seemingly can’t find adequate time to prepare nutritious meals, or even sit down long enough to eat properly? 

If you do not have time to work out and eat right, prepare to make a lot of time for disease! For example, having a heart attack and being in the hospital takes a tot of time. I don’t think we ever consciously want to hurt ourselves, but sometimes we put everyone else before ourselves (heath and nutrition) because of love. Of course, not realizing that same selfless love can limit the amount of time and/or quality of time we spend with our loved ones. Sit down, enjoy your meals, enjoy your family-sometimes the best memories are created around the kitchen table. Mine were.

Tell us about your catering business.  Do you cater for L.A.’s famous celebrity population? 

I feel like I’m about to kiss and tell. Recently I catered at Rita Perlman and Danny DeVitoÂ’s home. One of my favorite events was at the home of attorney to the stars, Peter Lopez and wife Catherine Bach (she played Daisy Duke). She is so cool. When I asked her what she wanted for a menu she just said to make it tasty, hearty and Latin.

She also wanted to make sure there was a big pot of frijoles and hand-made tortillas for the guests that stayed late so that they could nosh. Carlos Santana, Oscar De la Jolla, Babyface, Bitty Bush, and many familiar faces were there. I have catered for a lot of politicians and a lot of celebrities, but most importantly I have catered for a lot of wonderful people that enjoy good food.

Do you have any favorite, or signature dishes? 

I don’t have a signature dish, I just love all food. I love to experiment with world flavors like Asian, Indian and Moroccan.

As with any of the arts, success is not the outcome of creative ability alone.  Could you comment on the importance of the business aspect of the your culinary pursuits? 

The number of restaurants that fail in the first year is scary. I always advise chefs to attend business classes to be able to maximize their talents. Realistically, the chef should not do it all, but how can he know what to expect of others if he does not have a full understanding of what is needed to succeed in business (i.e. marketing, accounting, legal and tax requirement, etc.)? Knowledge is power.

As a Hispanic businesswoman you interchange freely between English and Spanish media.  Are there any differences in presentation to appeal more effectively to culturally diverse audiences? 

I think ten years ago I would have said “absolutely!” Now the differences are not that big. Hispanic media is more animated and the questions usually lead to family, instead of individual needs. With Hispanic acculturation and assimilation, we seem to be more of a recipe containing two cultures. After all, that is what America was built on, a melting pot.

These days I find more meeting that ever, regardless of the language.

You are a recipient of both Macy’s ‘Community Star Award’ and General Mills’ ‘Corazon de Communidad’ award.  What was the criteria that led to these awards? 

I was nominated several times over. They could not disclose who or how, all I know is that I was nominated several times and then the final decisions were made by the prospective companies. What I do know is that it is an honor. I hope these awards inspire my peers to do their part, because it is so important. I applaud the companies that elevate the positive deeds of others; they don’t always make the news, but they definitely make a difference in peopleÂ’s lives on so many levels.

Do you have any favorite occasional relaxation/recreation diversions from your intense professional schedule that help you maintain your enthusiasm and fresh outlook? 

I love to get a massage. My job is very physical and the constant traveling can take its toll. So that is my husband and mine’s “date night.” We call it a tune-up. I also love to hang out with my entire family- parents, sisters, nephews, son and my husband-cooking at home, eating out, whatever, but it usually involves food!

You are the consummate  Hispanic businesswoman. In parting, is there any advice you like to leave with our readers? 

Be good to yourself-you really are what you eat!

 Chef LaLa Part 1

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