Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips: A Fun, Healthy Holiday Snack

Transform your holiday snacking with these delightful Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. This recipe turns simple tortillas into festive, edible trees that bring joy to any holiday table. Moreover, these crispy creations offer a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. Consequently, you can feel good about serving them to family and friends.

The magic of these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips lies in their simplicity and visual appeal. Imagine golden-brown tortilla trees with a satisfying crunch, perfectly shaped for dipping. Additionally, their playful form makes them a hit with children and adults alike. Ultimately, they add a touch of whimsy to your holiday spread without requiring professional culinary skills.

Creating these edible Christmas trees becomes a fun family activity that everyone can enjoy. Furthermore, the process encourages creativity while producing a delicious result. You can customize the seasoning to match your taste preferences perfectly. Therefore, these chips serve as both a tasty snack and a memorable holiday experience.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: These Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips deliver a savory, slightly salty taste with herbal notes from optional seasonings. The corn tortilla base provides a naturally sweet undertone that complements various dips. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with garlic powder, paprika, or nutritional yeast.
• Texture: These holiday snacks achieve a perfect balance between crispiness and lightness. The baking process creates a satisfying crunch that holds up well against thick dips. Meanwhile, the edges become delicately brittle while the centers remain sturdy enough for scooping.
• Aroma: As these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips bake, your kitchen fills with the warm, toasty scent of corn tortillas. The optional seasonings release their fragrant oils, creating an inviting holiday atmosphere. Consequently, the aroma builds anticipation for this festive treat.
• Visual Appeal: The Christmas tree shapes immediately capture attention with their festive silhouette. The golden-brown color provides a beautiful canvas for colorful dips and garnishes. Therefore, these edible trees become both a snack and a decorative element on your holiday table.
• Skill Level Needed: This recipe requires absolutely no advanced cooking techniques or special skills. Even beginners can achieve perfect results with basic kitchen tools. Essentially, if you can use cookie cutters and operate an oven, you can master this recipe.
• Special Equipment: You only need Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutters and a baking sheet. Alternatively, you can create tree shapes freehand with kitchen scissors. Additionally, a pastry brush helps evenly distribute oil, though you can use your fingers instead.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: These Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips rank as exceptionally easy to make, suitable for cooks of all experience levels. The process involves simple cutting and baking steps without complicated techniques. Furthermore, the recipe forgives minor mistakes, ensuring success even for first-time makers. Essentially, the difficulty compares to making toast but with a festive twist.
• Category: This recipe falls into multiple categories including snacks, appetizers, and holiday treats. It works perfectly as a party food, after-school snack, or pre-dinner nibble. Additionally, it fits into healthy eating plans when prepared with minimal oil.
• Cuisine: While tortillas originate from Mexican cuisine, this preparation embraces global holiday traditions. The Christmas tree shape gives it a universal festive appeal that transcends cultural boundaries. Consequently, these chips complement various culinary traditions during the holiday season.
• Cost: Creating these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips proves incredibly budget-friendly, costing significantly less than store-bought holiday snacks. Basic corn tortillas represent the main expense, while seasonings likely already exist in your pantry. Therefore, you can create an impressive holiday treat for just pennies per serving.
• Season: This recipe shines brightest during the winter holiday season from late November through December. The festive shapes and easy preparation make it ideal for busy holiday entertaining. However, the basic technique works year-round for creating shaped tortilla chips.
• Occasion: These edible Christmas trees enhance various holiday occasions including Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, and family gatherings. They work beautifully for Christmas Eve appetizers, Christmas Day snacking, and office potlucks. Additionally, they make fun additions to holiday gift baskets when packaged properly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The irresistible appeal of these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips begins with their perfect texture and flavor. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that complements creamy dips beautifully. Furthermore, the corn tortilla base provides a neutral canvas that highlights your favorite seasonings. The combination of visual charm and delicious taste makes these holiday snacks unforgettable. You will appreciate how the simple ingredients transform into something special with minimal effort. Ultimately, the eating experience balances nostalgia and novelty in every crispy piece.

Convenience represents another major advantage of this recipe for Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. You can prepare them quickly using ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. Moreover, the process requires no special skills or equipment beyond basic Christmas tree cookie cutters. The short baking time means you can whip up a batch while preparing other holiday dishes. This efficiency makes them perfect for last-minute party preparations or unexpected guests. Therefore, you can always have a festive snack ready without stress.

Nutritional benefits make these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips stand out from typical holiday treats. Baked rather than fried, they contain significantly less fat than traditional tortilla chips. Additionally, using whole grain tortillas increases fiber content for better digestion and sustained energy. You control the salt and seasoning amounts, avoiding excessive sodium common in packaged snacks. This health-conscious approach allows indulgence without guilt during the holiday season. Consequently, you can enjoy these festive treats while maintaining your wellness goals.

The social and entertainment value of these edible Christmas trees cannot be overstated. Children particularly enjoy both making and eating these playful shaped snacks. Furthermore, they serve as excellent conversation starters at holiday parties and gatherings. The DIY aspect encourages kitchen participation from family members of all ages. This collaborative cooking experience creates cherished holiday memories beyond mere snacking. Thus, these chips become part of your family’s holiday tradition.

Cost-effectiveness and accessibility complete the appeal of these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. The ingredients remain affordable and available at any grocery store throughout the year. Moreover, you can create impressive results without investing in expensive specialty items. The recipe scales easily to accommodate small family snacks or large party crowds. This flexibility makes it suitable for various budgets and occasions. Essentially, you achieve maximum holiday impact with minimal financial investment.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The story of tortilla chips begins in Mexico, where corn tortillas have been a dietary staple for centuries. Traditionally, stale tortillas were fried to create totopos, ensuring no food went to waste. Meanwhile, the Christmas tree tradition originated in Germany during the Renaissance period. These two cultural elements merged as creative cooks sought festive presentations for familiar foods. The result became these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips, blending culinary heritage with holiday symbolism.

Culturally, these edible trees represent the fusion of food traditions across borders. The corn tortilla honors Mesoamerican agricultural practices that revolutionized global cuisine. Simultaneously, the Christmas tree shape celebrates European holiday customs that spread worldwide. This combination demonstrates how food evolves through cultural exchange and adaptation. Consequently, these chips symbolize holiday unity and culinary creativity across traditions.

The evolution of this recipe reflects broader trends in holiday entertaining and food presentation. As home cooks sought healthier alternatives to traditional fried snacks, baking replaced deep-frying. Additionally, the rise of food styling on social media increased demand for visually appealing recipes. These Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips answered both trends perfectly. They provide photographic appeal while maintaining a health-conscious preparation method. Therefore, they represent modern holiday cooking priorities.

Regional variations have emerged as this recipe gained popularity across different communities. Some versions incorporate flavored tortillas like spinach or tomato for colorful trees. Others use specialty seasonings that reflect local taste preferences. Furthermore, dipping sauce choices often showcase regional ingredients and culinary traditions. This adaptability ensures the recipe remains relevant across diverse holiday celebrations. Essentially, these chips become a canvas for personal and regional expression.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Corn tortillas form the foundation of these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips, carrying significant cultural and nutritional importance. Historically, corn cultivation began in Mesoamerica over 8,000 years ago, becoming central to indigenous cultures. Nutritionally, corn tortillas provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy along with fiber for digestive health. They also contain essential B vitamins and minerals like magnesium. When selecting tortillas, choose those with minimal ingredients, ideally just corn, water, and lime. Store them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to prevent molding. For substitutions, flour tortillas work but produce a different texture, while gluten-free options accommodate dietary restrictions.

Olive oil contributes both functional and health benefits to these holiday snacks. This ancient oil has been pressed from olives for thousands of years around the Mediterranean region. It provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidant compounds that reduce inflammation. The oil helps achieve crispy texture while conducting heat evenly during baking. Select extra virgin olive oil for its superior flavor and higher nutrient content. Store it in a dark, cool place to prevent rancidity. Alternative oils include avocado oil for high-heat tolerance or coconut oil for different flavor notes.

Seasonings like salt, garlic powder, and paprika allow customization of these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. Salt has been valued throughout human history both as preservative and flavor enhancer. It helps balance flavors while highlighting other seasoning notes. Garlic powder offers convenient, consistent garlic flavor without fresh garlic’s preparation requirements. Paprika, made from dried peppers, adds color and mild heat while providing antioxidant vitamins. Select high-quality seasonings for the best flavor impact. Store them away from light and heat to preserve potency. Nutritional yeast makes an excellent substitution for cheese-like flavor in vegan versions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using stale tortillas creates tough chips rather than light, crispy ones. Always check your tortillas for freshness before beginning this recipe. Furthermore, properly stored tortillas ensure the best texture for your Christmas tree shapes.
• Over-brushing with oil leads to greasy chips that lack the desired crispness. Use a light hand when applying oil to prevent sogginess. Consequently, your chips will achieve perfect texture without excess fat.
• Cutting trees too close together wastes tortilla material and reduces your yield. Plan your cutting pattern to maximize the number of trees from each tortilla. This efficient approach minimizes food waste while producing more snacks.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet prevents proper air circulation and even cooking. Leave space between trees to allow heat to reach all surfaces. Therefore, your chips will cook uniformly without soft spots.
• Neglecting to flip halfway through baking results in uneven browning. Always turn your chips midway for consistent color and texture. This simple step ensures professional-looking results.
• Underseasoning leaves chips bland compared to the flavorful dips they accompany. Season immediately after brushing with oil when the surface is still tacky. The oil helps the seasoning adhere properly throughout baking.
• Baking at wrong temperatures causes burning or softening instead of crispness. Follow temperature guidelines precisely and know your oven’s characteristics. Oven thermometers provide accuracy when oven calibration seems questionable.
• Skipping the cooling step prevents chips from achieving their final crisp texture. Always let chips cool completely on a rack before serving or storing. This patience allows residual heat to complete the crisping process.

Essential Techniques

Proper tortilla preparation forms the foundation for perfect Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. Start with tortillas at room temperature, as cold tortillas may crack during cutting. If your tortillas seem dry, briefly warming them in a microwave with a damp paper towel adds flexibility. This technique prevents broken tree shapes and ensures clean edges. The goal is pliable but not soft tortillas that hold their shape during cutting and baking.

Strategic cutting maximizes your yield and creates uniform Christmas trees. Use sharp cookie cutters and press firmly through the tortilla in one confident motion. For stubborn cutters, dipping them in flour between cuts prevents sticking. Arrange your cuts to minimize waste, using tortilla scraps for additional irregular-shaped chips. This efficient approach respects ingredients while providing maximum snack quantity.

Even oil application proves crucial for consistent browning and crispness. Use a pastry brush or your fingers to apply a thin, uniform layer of oil on both sides. Pay special attention to the edges, which tend to dry out faster during baking. The oil should glisten without pooling in any areas. This technique ensures every part of your tree achieves perfect texture.

Proper baking technique transforms the prepared tortillas into crispy delights. Always preheat your oven completely before baking to ensure immediate heat action. Use the middle rack position for even air circulation and heat distribution. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for uniform browning. Watch closely during the final minutes since tortillas can transition from perfect to burnt quickly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips

For extra crispy chips, place a cooling rack on your baking sheet and arrange trees on top. This technique allows air to circulate underneath, preventing steaming and promoting even crispness. Furthermore, the rack method eliminates the need for flipping halfway through baking.

Create flavored oil infusions for more sophisticated seasoning options. Gently warm olive oil with garlic, herbs, or citrus zest, then strain before brushing. This method adds subtle flavor dimensions that elevate your chips beyond basic seasoning. Consequently, your holiday snacks will impress even discerning palates.

Mix seasonings in a small bowl before sprinkling for consistent flavor distribution. Combining salt with other dried seasonings ensures every chip receives the same flavor profile. This simple step prevents uneven seasoning that can occur when applying components separately.

Use kitchen shears to create freehand trees if you lack Christmas tree cookie cutters. Simply sketch a tree shape on paper as a template, then cut around it. This improvisation demonstrates that creativity matters more than specialized tools for holiday cooking.

Batch bake multiple sheets simultaneously by rotating them between oven racks halfway through. This efficiency saves time when preparing large quantities for parties. Just ensure adequate space between sheets for proper air circulation during baking.

Immediately transfer baked chips to a cooling rack instead of leaving them on the hot baking sheet. This movement stops the cooking process and prevents residual heat from creating soft spots. The result is consistently crispy chips throughout.

Variations and Adaptations

Regional variations allow these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips to reflect local flavors and ingredients. In the Southwest, add chili powder and cumin to the seasoning blend for warmth. Meanwhile, Mediterranean versions might feature oregano, lemon zest, and black pepper. For Asian-inspired trees, brush with sesame oil and sprinkle with furikake seasoning. These adaptations demonstrate the recipe’s incredible flexibility across culinary traditions. Consequently, you can customize the flavor profile to complement your holiday menu theme.

Seasonal adaptations extend the usefulness of this technique beyond the Christmas season. For Halloween, create pumpkin and ghost shapes with orange and white tortillas. Meanwhile, spring might bring flower-shaped chips seasoned with herbal blends. Fourth of July calls for star shapes with red, white, and blue seasoning colors. This year-round applicability makes the basic technique valuable in any season. Therefore, your shaped chip skills serve you beyond December.

Dietary modifications ensure everyone can enjoy these festive snacks regardless of restrictions. Gluten-free versions simply require certified gluten-free corn tortillas. Vegan options already exist in the basic recipe, needing only vegan-friendly dipping sauces. For low-carb diets, use low-carb tortillas and adjust seasoning to avoid added sugars. These inclusive adaptations make holiday entertaining easier for hosts with diverse guest needs. Essentially, no one needs to miss out on festive treats.

Flavor variations transform the basic recipe into new experiences with simple ingredient swaps. Try cinnamon-sugar trees for a sweet version that children adore. Alternatively, everything bagel seasoning creates savory chips perfect for cream cheese dips. For cheese lovers, sprinkle with grated Parmesan during the last few minutes of baking. These options provide endless creativity while maintaining the same preparation method. Thus, you can create a different chip experience each time you make them.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating techniques elevate these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips from simple snack to holiday centerpiece. Arrange trees standing upright in a cup or glass filled with dip to resemble a forest. Alternatively, create a wreath pattern on a round platter with a bowl of dip in the center. For individual servings, place several trees on small plates with ramekins of various dips. These presentations maximize visual impact while maintaining functionality for easy eating.

Garnishing ideas enhance the festive appearance without complicating preparation. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro around the platter for color contrast. Edible glitter or dust provides magical sparkle for special occasions. For sophisticated touches, add pomegranate arils or cranberries as decorative “ornaments” on your chip platter. These simple additions transform basic presentation into something extraordinary.

Traditional accompaniments include classic dips that complement the corn flavor of the tortillas. Guacamole provides creamy contrast to the crispy chips while offering nutritional benefits. Salsa delivers bright acidity that cuts through the richness of other holiday foods. Queso dip offers comforting warmth that feels particularly seasonal during colder months. These familiar pairings ensure broad appeal across different age groups and taste preferences.

Modern serving suggestions incorporate global flavors and contemporary dietary trends. Hummus provides protein-rich dipping option with Mediterranean flair. Tzatziki offers refreshing cucumber and yogurt contrast to the crispy chips. Edamame bean dip introduces Asian influences with vibrant green color. These innovative pairings refresh the traditional chip and dip concept for modern palates.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Wine pairings should complement both the crispy texture and seasoning of these holiday snacks. Sauvignon Blanc provides crisp acidity that cleanses the palate between bites. Meanwhile, sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava offer effervescence that contrasts the chips’ crunch. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir won’t overwhelm the delicate corn flavor. These selections enhance rather than compete with your Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips.

Non-alcoholic alternatives ensure all guests can enjoy thoughtful beverage pairings. Sparkling water with citrus slices provides refreshing contrast to the salty chips. Virgin bloody marys deliver savory complexity that mirrors the seasoning profiles. Fruit-infused iced teas offer subtle sweetness that balances the corn’s natural flavor. These options demonstrate that sophisticated pairing doesn’t require alcohol.

Hot beverage pairings work beautifully during colder holiday months. Hot chocolate with a pinch of chili powder echoes Mexican hot chocolate traditions. Spiced apple cider provides seasonal warmth that complements the chips’ rustic appeal. Herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile offer soothing counterpoints to the crunchy texture. These warm drinks create cozy holiday moments around snack platters.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storage methods significantly impact the longevity and quality of your Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips. Always cool chips completely before storing to prevent moisture accumulation. Use airtight containers with tight-fitting lids to protect against humidity. For added protection, include a food-safe silica gel packet to absorb ambient moisture. These precautions maintain the desirable crispness that defines successful chips.

Temperature requirements favor cool, dark places like pantries or cupboards away from heat sources. Avoid refrigeration, which introduces humidity and can make chips stale faster. Similarly, don’t store near the stove or oven where heat and steam are present. Consistent, moderate temperatures provide ideal conditions for preserving texture and flavor.

Container recommendations include glass jars with sealing lids or metal tins with tight closures. These materials provide superior protection compared to plastic bags alone. For gift-giving, decorative containers serve both practical and presentation purposes. Always label containers with preparation dates to track freshness accurately.

Signs of spoilage include loss of crispness, off odors, or visible mold growth. Properly stored chips typically maintain quality for up to one week. Discard any chips that develop unusual smells or appearances, as these indicate deterioration. When in doubt, perform a taste test before serving stored chips to guests.

Make Ahead Strategies

Prep timeline planning maximizes efficiency for holiday entertaining. You can cut the tree shapes up to two days in advance, storing them between parchment paper in the refrigerator. The seasoning mix can be prepared weeks ahead and stored in small jars. On party day, simply brush with oil, season, and bake. This advance work reduces last-minute kitchen stress significantly.

Storage between steps requires careful attention to prevent drying or moisture accumulation. Stack cut shapes with parchment paper between layers in an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use, bringing to room temperature before baking. This method preserves the tortillas’ flexibility while preventing spoilage.

Quality impact assessment helps determine which steps work best in advance. Testing shows that pre-cutting affects texture minimally when proper storage methods are followed. However, seasoning is best applied immediately before baking for optimal flavor adhesion. Understanding these nuances ensures your make-ahead efforts enhance rather than compromise results.

Scaling Instructions

Halving the recipe works perfectly for small family snacking or testing new flavor variations. Simply reduce all ingredients by half while maintaining the same baking temperature. Use a smaller baking sheet or bake in batches to ensure proper air circulation. The baking time may decrease slightly due to the reduced quantity, so watch closely. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to various household sizes.

Doubling or tripling accommodates party crowds without complicating the process. Use multiple baking sheets and rotate them between oven racks halfway through baking. Consider preparing batches sequentially rather than simultaneously if oven space is limited. Increase seasoning proportionally but taste-test a single chip first to confirm flavor balance. These adjustments ensure consistent results regardless of quantity.

Nutritional Deep Dive

Macro breakdown reveals why these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips qualify as a healthier snack option. The primary macronutrient comes from complex carbohydrates in the corn tortillas, providing sustained energy. Moderate fat content from olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Protein content remains modest but becomes significant when paired with bean-based dips. This balanced macro profile supports stable blood sugar and prolonged satisfaction.

Micronutrient analysis highlights the vitamin and mineral content contributed by key ingredients. Corn tortillas provide B vitamins essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function. Olive oil contributes vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that supports skin health. Seasonings like paprika offer vitamin A precursors important for vision and immune function. These micronutrients transform simple snacks into nutrient-dense choices.

Dietary Adaptations

Gluten-free adaptation requires only verification that your corn tortillas are certified gluten-free. Many mass-produced corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing. Check labels carefully if serving individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. With this simple verification, these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips easily accommodate gluten-free needs.

Vegan versions are inherent in the basic recipe when using plant-based oils and seasonings. The main consideration becomes dip selection, as many traditional chip accompaniments contain dairy. Offer guacamole, black bean dip, or salsa to maintain completely plant-based options. This alignment with vegan principles makes the recipe inclusive for diverse dietary preferences.

Low-carb modifications utilize low-carb tortillas now widely available in most supermarkets. These tortillas typically contain between 4-6 net carbs each compared to 15-20 in traditional versions. Adjust seasonings to avoid those with added sugars or carbohydrate-based anti-caking agents. These simple swaps create keto-friendly holiday snacks that fit restrictive eating plans.

Troubleshooting Guide

Texture issues commonly stem from improper baking techniques or ingredient quality. If chips turn out soft rather than crispy, extend baking time in 2-minute increments. For burned edges, reduce oven temperature by 25 degrees and watch closely. When chips become too brittle, they may be over-baked or made from overly dry tortillas. Understanding these correlations helps diagnose and correct texture problems efficiently.

Flavor balance problems typically involve underseasoning or uneven seasoning distribution. If chips taste bland, season more generously immediately after oil application. For uneven flavor, mix seasonings before sprinkling and apply from greater height for better distribution. When seasonings burn during baking, apply them halfway through the baking process instead. These adjustments ensure consistent, well-balanced flavor in every batch.

Recipe Success Stories

Community feedback consistently highlights how these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips become holiday favorites. Many families report making them annually as part of their Christmas Eve traditions. Teachers share success stories of classroom parties where children enthusiastically eat these healthy snacks. The accessibility of ingredients and simplicity of preparation receive particular praise from novice cooks. These testimonials confirm the recipe’s reliability and broad appeal.

Variation successes demonstrate the recipe’s adaptability to different tastes and occasions. One home cook created Hanukkah versions using star-shaped cutters and blue seasoning. Another family makes them for birthday parties using number-shaped cutters matching the celebrant’s age. These creative adaptations show how the basic technique serves multiple celebration needs beyond Christmas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

Related recipes that complement these Crispy Christmas Tree Tortilla Chips include various holiday dips and spreads. Consider learning to make homemade salsas using seasonal ingredients like cranberries or pomegranates. Guacamole variations incorporating roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes elevate basic avocado dip. These accompaniments transform your chip platter into a complete holiday appetizer spread.

Technique guides for working with tortillas expand your Mexican cuisine repertoire. Mastering homemade tortilla preparation allows complete control over ingredients and thickness. Learning proper heating methods for store-bought tortillas improves all your tortilla-based recipes. These skills enhance not only this recipe but many other dishes in your cooking rotation.

Seasonal variations maintain the shaped chip concept throughout the year with appropriate themes. Heart shapes for Valentine’s Day using beet powder for natural coloring. Egg and bunny shapes for Easter with pastel seasoning blends. Pumpkin and leaf shapes for autumn with warming spice seasonings. This approach keeps your snack repertoire fresh and occasion-appropriate year-round.

{“success”:true,”message”:”Recipe created successfully”,”post_id”:7359,”tasty_recipe_id”:7359,”shortcode”:” Print

Chef Billy

I’m Billy, a classically trained culinary school graduate from The Culinary Institute of America with over 12 years in the restaurant industry and over 19 years of cooking experience.