Love is in the air, and so is the aroma of a delicious culinary adventure! Get ready to be inspired by the story of Chuck Cruz and Hailee Catalano, a dynamic duo who have captured the hearts of thousands with their Friday night dinner series.
Every week, these talented chefs invite us into their kitchen, a sanctuary of calm amidst the chaos of high-pressure cooking. Their videos are a delightful blend of mouth-watering recipes, a touch of humor, and the pure joy of creating together.
But here's where it gets interesting... Chuck and Hailee's journey began in an unexpected way. They met at culinary school, paired as station partners, and their initial impressions couldn't have been more different. Chuck, with his late arrival and cheeky attitude, was a far cry from the intense chef Hailee had envisioned.
"I was really bad," Chuck admits with a laugh. His culinary experience prior to school was limited to The Cheesecake Factory and a Chinese buffet, while Hailee had already won high school cooking competitions. Yet, their differences created a perfect balance.
"When we were paired together, we would both try to help each other out," Hailee says. "It was fun realizing he's not intense; he's just a goofy, funny guy."
Their relationship blossomed, and they began dating in 2014. Working together in restaurant kitchens, they discovered a unique dynamic. "We're just good at cooking together for some reason," Hailee explains. "We always know where the other person is going."
In 2020, Hailee joined TikTok, and their cooking adventures took on a new dimension. With nearly two million followers, their videos have become a beloved hobby and a way to spend quality time together.
"Nowadays, cooking is our time of enjoyment and spending time together," Hailee shares. "It's been our hobby for so many years, and we love having a partner to nerd out with."
And nerd out they do! One of their favorite food adventures is seeking out the regional hot dog wherever they travel.
Even when working on the line, Chuck and Hailee looked forward to their days off, when they could indulge in longer cooking projects like braises, stews, or pasta.
"Now when we do it, it brings back those days," Chuck says with a smile.
Their first Valentine's Day together as culinary students was a memorable one. They opted for a Burger King date, complete with tablecloths and roses, creating a unique and fun memory.
"A chicken sandwich and a slushee at a plastic pink tablecloth at Burger King - perfect for me!" Hailee recalls with a laugh.
While they dream of opening their own restaurant one day, for now, they cherish the simple joy of sharing their passion with each other.
"It's just nice to be with someone who loves what you love too, and you get to do it together," Hailee adds.
So, this Valentine's Day, why not try their special recipe? Chuck and Hailee share their take on a classic surf and turf dinner, a salmon tartare that's light, elegant, and perfect for sharing with your loved one.
Salmon and Citrus Tartare with Potato Chips
Guajillo Oil
- 1 cup olive oil
- 5 guajillos, stem and seeds removed, cut into 1-inch pieces and toasted
- 2 teaspoons annatto powder
- 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
- 2 orange peels, shaved
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
Tartare
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 medium blood orange, peeled and finely diced
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 finger chile, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh chives, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Castelvetrano olives, sliced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon fish sauce
- 5 ounces high-quality salmon, diced very small
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Flake salt, for topping
- Kettle-cooked potato chips, for serving
Enjoy this romantic dish and create your own special memories with Chuck and Hailee's recipe!
What's your favorite way to spend time with your loved one? Do you have a special Valentine's Day tradition? We'd love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
