19 Jun Inside the Fridge Welcomes Pastry Chef and Mom Krista Bailey

Krista Bailey is a mom, pastry chef and owner of Simply Decadent Bakery in Lubbock, TX. She has worked for the last 6 years expanding her culinary knowledge through education and travel to start her dream. Her goal was to create a bakery that would encompass the flavors of the world and broaden individual’s culinary understanding. She starts every recipe with basic wholesome ingredients, and adds fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs to create a unique combination of flavors in both sweet and savory baked goods. Krista is involved in many organizations that promote her local community, including her leadership role as the Vice President of the local chapter of the American Culinary Federation, Panhandle Chefs de Cuisine. In Krista’s free time she enjoys spending time with her husband, son, family and friends. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date with everything going on at her Bakery!

 ITF: Where do you shop for food?

KB: Typically United Supermarkets or Walmart depending on whether I am needing to completely restock or single meal cooking and specialty items.

ITF: Do you love food shopping or dread it?

KB: I enjoy grocery shopping when I have time to meal plan otherwise it is a hassle.

ITF: How often do you shop?

KB: At least once a week.

ITF: How many times a week do you eat out? (based on 21 meals/week)

KB: More than I would like- with running a business and a new baby it’s hard to find time to cook.

ITF: How do you plan your weekly meals? Create a spreadsheet of fly by the seat of your pants? 

KB: I have a busy schedule so unfortunately meal planning has taken a back seat to the convenience of eating out.

ITF:  Do you believe in leftovers?

KB: Absolutely. It always poses a challenge to revamp leftovers and turn them into something new.

ITF:  What cooking utensil/piece of equipment/appliance do you live for?

KB: There is nothing more frustrating than a dull knife when trying to cook a fresh meal. There is always a sharp knife handy at my house.

IFT: When you hear the word “homemade” what is the first thing that comes to mind?

KB: Real ingredients. Not a meal in a box.

ITF: How have your cooking/shopping habits changed over the last 10 years?

KB: Definitely! As life gets busier the convenience of carry out and fast food have become a way of saving time.

ITF: What was the last meal you cooked from scratch?

KB: Grilled chicken, burgers and salad.

ITF:  What was the last meal you cooked from convenience products?

Velveeta cheese queso.

ITF: If one person could cook for you tonight, who would it be?

KB: My mom. There is nothing better than mom’s cooking.

ITF: What words of wisdom or advice do you have for other folks who are doing their best every day to fill the fridge?

KB: While I know I need to be better at this (easier said than done), going to the grocery store with a plan will always save money, time and avoid waste.

Thank you Krista!

If you would like to be featured on Inside the Fridge, please email Robinsbite intern Destini Borchardt- Destini@robinplotkin.com