Blogger Spotlight: Ev's Eats
Evi Aki of the Los Angeles-based food blog Ev's Eats lives by this famous Julia Child quote: "Learn how to cook — try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!"
On her blog, Aki documents her passion for food, cooking, and sharing a meal. She writes, "I believe that food connects and brings us all together. My grandmother and mother instilled in me the importance of cooking and family, and this is something that I try to pass on to my friends and whoever else I come in contact with!"
The Daily Meal would like to introduce you to Aki, a member of our Culinary Content Network of food bloggers; keep reading below!
The Daily Meal: What is the mission of your blog?
Evi Aki: Ev's Eats is a blog about adventures in food, creating recipes, and enjoying life. I love cooking with spices and creating big, bold flavors while keeping it simple.
How'd you get started?
I've loved food since I was a child. I come from a Nigerian background, and my grandma and mom ingrained the importance of cooking in me at a young age. From there I explored cooking by taking Foods in high school with chefs from Le Cordon Bleu, and then went on to be a food writer for Kontrol Magazine.
What are some foods you can't live without?
Rice. I eat rice at least once a day, lol. Also, pizza, pasta, and shrimp.
Are there any foods you can't stand?
Liver.
What is your proudest post?
My proudest post would have to be my Jollof Rice. It was the first Nigerian recipe I posted, and it wasn't exactly traditional, but my readers really received it well.
What is your biggest blog blunder?
My biggest blog blunder would probably have to be not starting on SEO from the beginning; I really wish I would've started on it right away.
Do you have a memorable comment from a reader?
I love all my comments from my readers, but my favorite ones are always whenever someone has tried my recipe and told me how much they loved it or what they didn't love about it.
What's on your cooking playlist?
Cooking and music for me go hand in hand because I love them pretty equally. My playlist depends on what mood I'm in; I love cooking to Otis Redding and Amy Winehouse a lot.
What are some other blogs you love?
What are some food apps you love?
Toast, Yelp, and Pinterest (I mostly use Pinterest for food).
What is the best thing about blogging?
Blogging allows you to post anything you want without any restrictions. It also connects you to a world of people that you normally wouldn't get to meet. Some of my best friends I've met through blogging.
What's the worst thing?
It takes a lot of time. I work a full-time job, and blogging can also be full time.
Is there a recipe you're currently obsessed with?
I just made eight different versions of toasts with ricotta cheese and cream cheese. I love toasts because they are perfect for breakfast and lunch.
What would even your most loyal followers be surprised to learn about you?
That I studied Psychology in college — I'm a huge science nerd.
What are five of your all-time favorite posts?