Her philosophy emphasizes simplicity, indulgence, and no guilt, promoting the use of store-bought ingredients and focusing on the joy of cooking without unnecessary complexity.
Raised in a family where food was strictly for nourishment, Garten's love for cooking developed as a response to the lack of flavor and joy in her childhood meals, seeking to create dishes that were both comforting and flavorful.
While working as a discontented government employee in Washington, D.C., Garten saw an ad for a food store in the Hamptons, which she eventually purchased and turned into the Barefoot Contessa.
Garten sought out challenges and was not afraid to learn by doing, often asking for guidance and then figuring out the rest on her own, enjoying the process of simplifying complex tasks.
Garten advises to figure out how to do what you love, suggesting that people should look back to what they enjoyed doing as a child as a potential indicator of their future career path.
Her style is characterized by comfort food with an upgrade, focusing on simplicity and interesting flavors, often enhanced by small additions like vinegar or lemon juice.
Her memoir, 'Be Ready When the Luck Happens,' reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list.
Thirteen bestselling cookbooks, a thriving food business in the Hamptons that she sold decades ago, and now her memoir "Be Ready When the Luck Happens" has hit number one on the New York Times bestseller list. None of that was in Ina Garten's plan. Her legendary career began when she was working in Washington DC as a somewhat discontented government employee, and saw an ad for a food store in the Hamptons. For this Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrating gratitude and food, we take a look at how Ina Garten built a successful business, powerful brand and happy life. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org). Email us at [email protected]).Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)