There’s a lot to love about the Brava community and today we’re excited to highlight another member who inspires us in the kitchen. We sat down with Laura Brophy, an interior designer based in Newport Beach who has been in love with Brava since she first tried it. Keep reading for Laura’s favorite Brava recipes and hacks, as well as her must-have kitchen design tips for adding more character in your space.
“I love how much time it saves me – game changer! Making nutritious, flavorful meals quickly is absolutely essential for me because I’m always on the go.” — Laura Brophy
Q: Tell us about yourself! What’s your background with cooking?
A: Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my mom. My mom followed recipes, and so do I. After I got married, my husband and I loved to host dinner parties and entertain. A while back I was a personal trainer and got away from cooking since I was on the go so much. My background in nutrition and sports medicine led me to want simple, quick, healthy meals…which is why I love Brava because I get all of those things in one appliance.
Q: How would you describe your cooking philosophy?
A: Eat to fuel your body, feel better, and live a healthier life. Keep it simple – cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. It is important to me that the ingredients are clean, and that I know where my food is coming from – I love to explore farmers markets!
Q: Describe your first encounter with Brava — what was it like to use for the first time?
A: My first encounter with the Brava was at the Middleby showroom, where I was able to test one out. We served Individual Shakshukas on whole wheat english muffins as our first meal. It was simple, beautiful, and packed with flavor…that was it, I was hooked! I was amazed at how quickly you could make something so delicious – great food in just minutes.
Q: How does Brava provide a solution to any pain points in the kitchen?
A: I love how much time it saves me – game changer! Making nutritious, flavorful meals quickly is absolutely essential for me because I’m always on the go.
Q: What’s your favorite Brava accessory? Product feature?
A: I LOVE the TempSensor! I don’t have to worry about overcooking because the Brava cooks to the exact temp that you set it to – I don’t have to keep checking the temperature which saves me even more time. The recipe finder…I cook best when following a recipe and having this feature built in is incredible – it’s so convenient and the recipes are absolutely delicious!
Q: Tell us about the quality of food that you cook in the Brava.
A: It’s simple, but we toast English muffins almost daily and the Brava toasts them perfectly…way better than a toaster and they taste better. Matter of fact, we got rid of our toaster. Also, Brava cooks one of the best steaks I’ve ever had, better than a grill and honestly, better than any steak we’ve had when dining in restaurants known for their steak. We also enjoy making hard boiled eggs and chickpeas.
Q: What ingredients are always in your kitchen and how do you use Brava to cook with them?
A: Eggs, English muffins, vegetables and a protein of some sort. We love to cook various foods at the same time and it’s great that everything comes out exactly how they need to be.
Q: How do you think Brava can be used to get more people cooking at home?
A: The Brava is a time saver, you can cook multiple things at the same time, easy recipes, it’s healthier, and boosts the quality of food…flavors are excellent, you don’t have to wait for it to heat up; virtually no mess and super easy clean up.
Q: Who inspires you in the kitchen?
A: My husband – he loves to cook and also enjoys entertaining. Where I follow recipes, he likes to experiment and everything he makes whether food, drinks or desserts…it’s all delicious!
Q: What are your favorite brava recipes or favorite Brava hacks?
A: I LOVE the Roasted Tomato Bruschetta – it’s the BEST and one of my favorite things to eat. Others I’m hooked on are the Individual Shakshukas, Cauliflower Agrodolce and I also really enjoy a good steak. I don’t have to fire up a grill or cook in the oven and it cooks perfectly and quickly. Not so much a hack, but a tip – when bringing takeout food home and need to reheat…try it! The food honestly tastes better…we tried this with french fries and they came out better! I’d also say don’t be afraid to try different recipes, or just go for it and experiment…there are no limits with using my Brava.
Q: Any must-have kitchen styling tips for adding more character in your space?
A: Having ‘less is more’ in the kitchen – it’s more calming and pleasing for yourself and guests to be in an open non-cluttered space. When connecting spaces, home design should flow into the kitchen
creating harmony. I’d incorporate anything that makes you feel good such as adding flowers or
greenery for an earthy touch and some color, herbs, beautiful cookbooks, unique tableware, and
if there is open shelving – a cool piece of art that makes you happy. Also, the great thing about
Brava is it comes in different colors (I have a penchant for the black) and it alleviates the need to
have so many counter appliances because it has so many functions in one! With its high-end
look, it will fit perfectly into any design.
For more of Laura’s design tips, behind the scenes of Laura Brophy Interiors, and tasty Brava goodness, follow along on Instagram @laurabrophyinteriors . Looking for an interior designer? Head to BrophyInteriors.Com to learn about how to work with Laura.
Want to see what else our community is whipping up? Join the Brava Home’s Facebook Community and follow along on Instagram. Share your Brava creations with the hashtag #BravaLife for a chance to be featured!