About

Well hello there, and a big, warm welcome to my little corner of the culinary world! I’m Rachael Thompson, and honestly, it still gives me a thrill every single time I get to share my love for food with folks like you. For me, cooking has never just been about filling a plate; it’s about stories, about connection, and about those wonderful, sometimes surprising, moments that happen when you just start playing with ingredients.

I guess you could say my culinary journey started way back, probably before I could even properly reach the countertop, in my Grandma Elsie’s cozy, sun-drenched kitchen right here in Oregon. I’m 42 now, but I can still smell the yeast from her legendary sourdough bread and taste the sweet tang of the wild blackberry jam she’d simmer for hours. She wasn’t about fancy techniques, just honest-to-goodness flavor and the magic of turning simple things into something special. I was her little shadow, often more of a hindrance than a help, I’m sure – I distinctly remember one “biscuit” attempt that could have probably been used as a doorstop! But she’d just chuckle, wipe the flour off my nose, and show me again, patient as anything.

That spark she lit in me never really went out. I didn’t march straight off to a prestigious culinary school; my path was a bit more… winding. I’ve flipped more pancakes than I can count in bustling local diners where speed and heartiness were the name of the game, and I’ve also sweated under the precise demands of a few fine-dining kitchens, learning the art of subtlety and the beauty of a perfectly balanced dish. Oh, the mistakes I’ve made! I once tried to create a lavender-infused soup that, let’s just say, ended up tasting more like a sachet you’d put in your sock drawer. My dog wouldn’t even go near it! But every under-seasoned stew, every slightly-too-charred experiment, was a lesson, and honestly, some of my best discoveries have come from those happy accidents.

Here in my Portland kitchen, surrounded by the incredible bounty this region offers, my philosophy is pretty simple: good food should be joyful, accessible, and never, ever intimidating. It’s about embracing the process, trusting your instincts, and not being afraid to try something new, even if it means a little mess along the way. I believe the best meals are the ones shared, the ones that spark conversation and create memories. Whether you’re a complete beginner just trying to figure out how to poach an egg, a seasoned home cook looking for fresh inspiration, or even a fellow professional curious about a new technique, I hope what I share here resonates with you. My greatest joy is seeing someone else find their own confidence and creativity in the kitchen. So, pull up a chair, let’s explore some flavors together, and remember, the most important ingredient is always a little bit of passion. I’m so glad you’re here!

We create and share:

• Easy-to-follow and foolproof recipes: Designed to be accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Clear, step-by-step instructions: Aiming to take the guesswork and stress out of meal preparation.
• A diverse collection of dishes: From comforting classics and satisfying everyday meals to exciting new flavors and inspiring dishes for special occasions.
• Insights, tips, and techniques: Helping you grow your skills and deepen your appreciation for cooking.

Each recipe is thoughtfully developed and thoroughly tested by me, ensuring you have the guidance needed to achieve delicious results every time. My goal is to empower you to confidently create meals you’ll be proud to share.

The Heart Behind the Spoon

I believe that great food doesn’t have to be complicated; it just needs to be made with care and passion. This belief is poured into every recipe, tip, and post on Stir Delish. Whether you’re just starting out, a seasoned cook, or simply looking for fresh ideas, you’ll find content here designed to support your culinary journey.

More than just a collection of recipes, Stir Delish is a reflection of my love for food and the joy it brings to our lives. It’s a space for fellow food lovers – a growing community gathered by the simple pleasure of cooking and sharing.

What You Can Expect from Stir Delish

• Accessible, tested recipes: Reliable dishes designed for success, regardless of your experience.
• Guidance and insights: Resources to help you learn, grow, and deepen your culinary appreciation.
• Thoughtfully created content: Each piece developed with care and attention to detail.
• A welcoming community: A space free from judgment, celebrating the joy of cooking together.

Whether you’re here to browse for inspiration, look up a specific dish, or embark on a new culinary project, I’m genuinely thrilled to have you join me on this delicious journey.

Let’s Stir Something Wonderful Together

My hope is that Stir Delish becomes your trusted companion in the kitchen, making your cooking life a little tastier, a little easier, and a lot more joyful. I invite you to explore the recipe archives and discover something new or rediscover an old favorite.

Thank you for being here.

Let’s make something delicious today! 🍲💛

With warmth and gratitude,

Rachael
Founder, StirDelish.com
📬 [email protected]

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

How often do you post new recipes?

I aim to share delicious new recipes and helpful tips regularly! You can typically expect fresh content here on Stir Delish. Be sure to subscribe to my email list so you never miss a new post!

What are your favorite kitchen tools for home cooks?

You don’t need a million gadgets! Some of my go-to essentials include a good quality chef’s knife, a sturdy cutting board, reliable measuring tools, a few versatile mixing bowls, and a trusty cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Simple tools make simple cooking easier!

Do you offer tips for meal planning?

Absolutely! I believe a little planning goes a long way in reducing kitchen stress. I often share tips and strategies within recipe posts and sometimes dedicate specific articles to meal prep and planning ideas.

Can I request a recipe?

I love hearing what you’re craving! While I can’t promise to create every request, I definitely welcome your suggestions. They often inspire future content! Feel free to send your ideas via email or leave a comment on a related post.

How can I connect with other StirDelish readers?

Join the conversation! The comments section on each recipe post is a great place to share your experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who are trying the same dish. You can also connect with StirDelish and our community on social media:

• Find me on Facebook: StirDelish Facebook
• Get visual inspiration on Pinterest: StirDelish Pinterest
• See daily kitchen moments on Instagram: StirDelish Instagram
• Follow for updates on X (formerly Twitter): StirDelish X

Share your creations, ask questions, and chat with our growing community!

Are these recipes free to use?

Yes, all the recipes and content provided on StirDelish for personal use are completely free! My passion is sharing the joy of cooking with you. Please see my Privacy Policy for details on sharing or republishing content.