From Spain With Love

At least once or twice a week as I prepare to head to work, I catch Food Network’s From Spain with Love hosted by one very enchanting Annie Sibonney. Annie has traveled around the world immersing herself in various cultures and enriching her palate. In the last few years, she has focused her attention to Spain and its grand cuisine.

Who wouldn’t? I’d travel all around Spain just for the sake of traveling. But to travel, be hooked up to the best cuisine Spain has to offer, and be paid to do it? Anyone would be a fool to refuse.

There’s something about the way she talks and the way she presents herself that I like. She’s quite charismatic and she has good diction. With all these compliments flying left and right, you’d be surprised to know I didn’t used to think that way.

Ms Annie. Img from http://iwatchanythingontv.wordpress.com/2011/05/

I think all these new Food Network “stars” are just a load of ****. They’re so inauthentic and commercial; it just leaves a sour taste in mah mouth. It just seems so fake. Sure they’re real chefs or cooks, but they obviously want the fame and recognition. Otherwise they’d be content to sticking to their restaurant or catering business.

So when I first saw Annie’s show, I immediately thought “Oh great, another one…” and couldn’t help but have that attitude right away. But when I started to see the content of her show and what she talks about, I realize it’s not like many Food Network shows out right now. Sure it’s not original, but it’s presented in a way that’s engaging and makes you want to watch ’til the very end.

Here’s a clip from the show the other day

 

This almost reminds me of David Rocco’s La Dolce Vita (also LOVE that show) and Spain on the Road Again, with Mario Batali and Gwyneth Paltrow. I enjoy shows like these, as it’s not just being in the kitchen and cooking meals in 30 minutes or 1 hour. I also get a taste of the local culture and lifestyle.

 

This episode is about fire and its significance in Spanish cuisine. You’re probably thinking “well of course you need fire to cook it, duh”. To you sir, shut up and watch it. We do it here in North America, but there’s something about it being done in a European country.

I could probably watch her for hours. Wish I could have a job like hers!