Yvonne Maffei

I'm a new food blogger, but not new to food.

As with many foodies, I've developed a love of food, cooking and knowing everything related to them from a very young age. I was a teacher for several years before finally being able to dedicate myself full time to this passion.

Over the years my culinary tastes and preferences have changed, but the love of all things related to food, cooking, gardening and the culinary arts have not.

In my blog, My Halal Kitchen, I share my recipes, culinary tips and excursions with anyone interested in reading and learning about them. ("Halal" is an Arabic term used to describe an action or a food that is permissible. In the case of my blog, it is used to resonate the permissible foods of Islamic dietary guidelines followed by Muslims). For example, the two main dietary restrictions are that of pork and alcohol, so my focus is centered on providing halal substitutions for dishes I think readers will enjoy- perhaps a lasagna made of ground beef rather than a pork/beef mixture.

Because I grew up in an Italian-Hispanic family, I plan on sharing mostly dishes from that heritage, although I love to explore cuisines from all over the world.

I look forward to interaction with all readers, bloggers, foodies and anyone willing to engage in the food topics presented. Please visit My Halal Kitchen, introduce yourself, provide feedback and send an invitation to your own sites. It'll be great to meet you!