by J.E. Pizarro

Food Network peeks into the high-demand world of culinary glamour in Private Chefs of Beverly Hills. This delicious docu-soap follows six gifted cooks from Big City Chefs, Beverly Hills’ premiere private-chef placement agency. On call 24/7, the chefs must cater to the whims of their over-the-top and eccentric clientele in Los Angeles’ most posh neighborhood. The cast includes six chefs with varied culinary expertise and background.

I got an opportunity to ask Jesse a few questions about current food trends!

1. As a private chef, what trends are you seeing in your menu planning for families today?

I don’t think anyone will be terribly shocked that the number one request while cooking for families is to keep everything as health-conscious as possible.  With all the media attention about obesity and weight gain, Americans (or at least my clients in Los Angeles and New York) have been very specific about keeping ingredients fresh and chemical-free.  Naturally, I use a lot of organic products and support local farmers by doing the bulk of my produce shopping at farmer’s markets.

Also, people are really hip to portion control.  I think it’s a good sign that folks are wanting to eat smaller portions, which results in less waste and more energy post-meals.
“Way to go, America!”

2 . Organic foods, I can walk into my local market and now see two sections with what visually look like the same vegetables.  What truly is the difference between organic and regular?

Honestly, organic foods contain more natural qualities than other processed foods.  There are less pesticides, growth hormones, and preservatives in organic foods.  Though, I doubt any grocer can guarantee 100% that organic goods are completely free of any and every chemical out there.  Generally, I feel confident in saying that you are making a wise choice, for your body, when you purchase and consume organic.

3.  We all loved watching you on Bravo’s Work Out and now on the Food Networks Private Chefs of Beverly Hills, by the way, you look great!  How do we stay healthy and trim now that we have two major food holidays coming up?

First, Thank you for your compliments… I do my best!

Second, the key to staying lean during this festive season is balance.  It’s always about BALANCE!!!  I will never tell anyone to deny themselves the joy of holiday eating.  There is too much tradition and flavor surrounding these foods to completely avoid them.  I just encourage people to take a few more walks, drink more water, and don’t feel obligated to clear your plates.  Moderation and balance will help keep your holidays jolly and you waistline in tact!

Check out his blog!  Click here!