Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you might not always have all the ingredients on hand. Most of our recipes include notes about possible substitutions. As a general rule, you can substitute similar ingredients (like one herb for another), but key ingredients that affect texture or structure (like eggs in baking) might be harder to replace. Feel free to contact Chef Jue for specific substitution advice for any of our recipes!

Absolutely! Our recipes are designed for cooks of all skill levels. Each recipe is clearly labeled with a difficulty level, and we provide detailed step-by-step instructions with helpful tips. Beginners should start with recipes marked "Easy" and gradually work their way up to more complex dishes as they build confidence in the kitchen.

Many of our recipes include make-ahead instructions. Soups, stews, and casseroles often taste even better the next day! For dishes that are best served fresh, we sometimes provide prep tips so you can prepare components ahead of time. Look for the "Prep Ahead" section in our recipes for specific guidance.

We offer many recipes that accommodate different dietary needs, clearly labeled with tags like gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan. For recipes that don't have these labels, we often provide modification suggestions. We're continuously expanding our collection of allergen-friendly and specialized diet recipes. If you need help adapting a specific recipe, please reach out to us!

Most of our recipes can be prepared with basic kitchen equipment: a good knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and standard pots and pans. When special equipment is needed (like a food processor or Dutch oven), we'll mention that at the top of the recipe. We also offer equipment-specific tags to help you find recipes that work with what you already have in your kitchen.

Chef Jue emphasizes using fresh, seasonal ingredients whenever possible. She sources from local farmers' markets, specialty grocers, and trusted online suppliers for unique ingredients. For each recipe, we try to suggest accessible alternatives for hard-to-find items. Check out our "Ingredient Guide" section for Chef Jue's recommendations on sourcing quality ingredients in your area.

While our recipes are tested using specific cooking methods, many can be adapted. For example, a stovetop recipe might work in a slow cooker with adjusted timing. When possible, we provide alternative cooking method suggestions. Keep in mind that changing methods may affect cooking times and sometimes texture or flavor. For specific adaptations, like converting an oven recipe to an air fryer, please contact us for guidance.

Yes! Chef Jue hosts monthly online cooking classes and seasonal in-person workshops. These classes cover everything from basic techniques to advanced culinary skills. Our members get early access and discounted rates. We also have a growing library of video demonstrations showing key techniques used in our most popular recipes. Check our "Events" page for the upcoming schedule.