Food & Spirits: Let's face it, not everyone knows their way around the kitchen. That's why Sam the Cooking Guy has become a household favorite among bachelors and culinary novices alike. Sam the Cooking Guy offers his audience no-hassle recipes intended to cut both preparation and cooking time by way more than half.

With no formal culinary training or on-air experience, the show's concept initially seemed rather bleak to say the least. However, with eight?yes eight?emmys under his belt, Sam the Cooking Guy has proved to captivate?culinary deficient?audiences across several markets nationwide. Using simple everyday utensils and products that could be found at your local market, Sam the Cooking Guy likes to call what he does, "a cooking show for the rest of us." In fact, the show is so unconventional that each 30 minute episode is broadcasted from his home kitchen.

Don't expect fois gras or Peruvian mountain-raised squab, but do look for Buffalo Chicken Pizza and Shrimp Tacos. The show's Web site offers several easy-to-follow recipes, videos, and even merchandise such as t-shirts and custom knives. Southern Californians have an extra advantage as the show is based out of San Diego. Sam the Cooking Guy extends his everyday expertise by offering cooking demonstrations and classes around the San Diego area. Having earned credibility from his relatable on-air presence, the chef is currently working on a cookbook for John Wiley and Sons.

For LxM Christina Stewart

Posted On: Monday Aug. 20th, 2007