On today's episode, we learn the time-honored Irish tradition of avoiding bad luck and guilt by eating Pork and Sauerkraut on New Year's Day. Join us as we delve into the rich history and cultural significance of this comforting dish, passed down through Tony's mom's generations as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.

Every year, the capstone of the holiday season culminates with New Year's Day. All of the good feelings and warmth of the season begins to ebb away once the rains of January come. Much like the hardworking Irish who weather life's storms with resilience and sacrifice, this dish embodies a blend of robust flavors that mellow and mature over time.

Just as the pork slowly simmers to perfection, tenderizing with each passing hour, so too do the Irish people, their spirit growing stronger with each challenge they face.

It's a celebration of longevity and endurance, where the savory tang of sauerkraut represents the trials and tribulations of life, softened and enriched by the hearty essence of pork: a symbol of luxury and fulfillment.

Collectively they are symbols of a new day, a new start. A second act.

This year is particularly poignant, as Tony's mother recently passed away three months prior to the recording of this episode. Grief is as much a part of Joy as Pork is to Sauerkraut. And while we frequently experience both as independent emotions, together is when they feel the most profound.

On Today's show join us for a heartfelt journey in the kitchen as Chef Doreen Fang lovingly recreates her mother Bonnie's cherished comfort food recipe, Tomato Beef. In this tender episode of Second Act Scratch, Doreen warmly shares the story behind this Chinese-inspired dish, passed down through generations as a symbol of love, warmth, and nostalgia.

As the savory aroma fills the air, Doreen delicately slices tender flank steak, infusing each piece with memories of her childhood kitchen and her beloved mother, Bonnie, who was not only a nurturing presence but also a dedicated nurse. Despite Bonnie's passing at the young age from lung cancer, her spirit lives on in the flavors of this timeless recipe.

With each chop of vibrant Roma tomatoes and sprinkle of fragrant green onions, Doreen honors her mother's legacy, weaving together flavors that transcend time and place. It's a poignant tribute to a woman whose love and dedication continue to inspire.

With a dash of ground ginger and a sprinkle of black pepper, Doreen adds her own touch to the recipe, infusing it with her passion for culinary innovation. As the dish simmers gently on the stove, she reflects on the significance of food as a vessel for connection, healing, and joy.

So, grab a seat at the table and let the warmth of Tomato Beef envelop you in a comforting embrace. Tune in to Second Act Scratch as Chef Doreen Fang invites us on a culinary journey filled with love, tradition, and the timeless magic of homemade meals, all in honor of her mother, Bonnie.

LINKS/RESOURCES:

Check out the blog post and recipe for this episode here! (Click Me)

Meet Sarah Mattinson, the culinary powerhouse behind Olive Bakery & Cafe in San Diego's vibrant Mission Beach. In a heartwarming conversation, Sarah shares her incredible journey through the pandemic, turning adversity into an opportunity to uplift her community. Discover how her heartfelt dedication led her to deliver free meals to vulnerable seniors, a touching act that landed her a spot on the Kelly Clarkson show—an emotional recognition of her unwavering commitment.

As Vice President of both the Mission Beach Town Council and the San Diego Chapter of the California Restaurant Association, Sarah embodies true inspiration for everyone around her. Loved by the community, Sarah delves into her childhood influences that shaped her into the remarkable entrepreneur she is today. Join us as we explore her culinary passion, celebrating a mutual love for butter and even taking a delightful kitchen adventure together—whipping up delectable two-ingredient English Muffins!

LINKS/RESOURCES:

For the recipe and behind the scenes action, visit: https://www.secondactscratch.com/post/for-the-love-of-butter-sarah-mattinson-olive-cafe

Kelly Clarkson Show Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cc_FHyzZdfY

Olive Bakery: www.olivebakingcompany.com

Olive Cafe: www.olivecafe.biz

Instagram: @olivebakingco

It’s Friday Night and it’s a chilly night, why not cozy up to Second Act Scratch for some home cooking and love. In our upcoming episode, join us as Doreen shares a heartwarming family recipe—her mom's cherished Chicken Chow Mein. Listen in as Doreen takes us on a flavorful journey, preparing this beloved dish live for Tony and Tim. Through this culinary adventure, Doreen opens up about her family history and upbringing, narrating heartfelt stories from her childhood with her mom, who was a dedicated nurse. Tune in for a delightful blend of food, family tales, and a taste of Doreen's nostalgic past.

LINKS/RESOURCES

Blog Post for Recipe and Behind the Scenes

They say it's not about what happens to you, it's about how you handle what happens to you. Join us for a riveting episode where Doreen and Tony dive into life's unexpected twists and turns with none other than Master Chef Season 7 Winner, Shaun O'Neale!

In a candid conversation, Shaun shares invaluable insights on navigating those 'Oh S&*&t Moments,' of life, mastering the art of pivoting, and discovering genuine happiness in the present moment. Get ready to be inspired by Shaun's awe-inspiring journey—from rags to riches and from the lowest lows to the highest peaks. Prepare to be captivated by Shaun's unique life philosophy, a philosophy that played a pivotal role in gearing him up for his biggest television performance ever before judges Gordon Ramsey, Christina Tosi and the whole world.

**2024 Update: After recording this episode, many changes took place for our friend Shaun. He is now living in beautiful Arizona and the Executive Chef of restaurant 333 which will be opening in Spring 2024. Three Thirty Three combines cool and contemporary interiors with a superlative culinary offering. The Asian inspired menu encompasses wood-fired dishes along with an extensive sushi selection with over-the-top touches like peking duck with caviar and dry aged wagyu tomahawk.

Inspired by Shaun, Doreen & Tony cook her famous Cosi Buono Che Crea Dipendenza (Tomato Basil Pasta). Photos and the recipe are below! And remember to tune in each episode on Apple, Amazon, Google and Spotify.

LINKS/RESOURCES:

Link to Recipe and behind the scenes bonus content: https://www.secondactscratch.com/post/episode-one-greatest-oh-s-t-moments-in-history-guest-star-sean-o-neale-masterchef-winner

Shaun's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threethirtythreerestaurant/

Shaun's Website: djshaunoneale.com

What happens when two seasoned veterans come together and start the second part of their life?

Join hosts Doreen Fang, a top 10 Finalist on the Food Network Star and featured Chef on The Morning Blend in Las Vegas and Tony Felice, entrepreneur and owner of a successful advertising agency. Both have a comedic approach to life and believe that laughter is the most essential ingredient.

The "Second Act Scratch cooking show podcast," is an authentic conversation that takes place while they cook, share recipes, laugh about life’s disasters and share emotional examples of what it means to live with courage, conviction and above all kindness and compassion. Doreen and Tony will be joined each episode with a guest, from all levels of fame, to discuss their own second acts and overcoming heartbreak, grief, or even what happens when you do get everything you want.

Second Act Scratch: Every Recipe is a Story

LINKS/RESOURCES:

For more, visit secondactscratch.com

Check out our blog post for this episode here!