Mindy Segal has been providing sweet treats since first embarking on her culinary career many pastries ago. Specializing in contemporary American cuisine, Segal's modern twists on traditional classics have seen her rise to the top winning countless awards including the Jean Banchet award for Best Celebrity Pastry chef in Chicago, Chicago Magazine’s Pastry Chef of the Year and for two consecutive years and the Time Out Chicago’s Eat Out Awards for Best Pastry Chef. This week, we catch up with the talented pastry chef to talk inspiration, cooking style and the ultimate dinner date. Make sure you check out her sensational recipe for Strawberry Rhubarb Rugelach with Oatmeal Streusel below. — HotChocolateChicago.com
Describe your cooking style in three words: Artisanal. Seasonal. Hand-crafted.
What’s your signature dish? Since the release of my new cookbook Cookie Love, my signature dish has become my cookies.
What do you think is the most underrated ingredient? The use of salt in desserts.
What’s the best cooking advice you’ve ever received? "Keep it simple" — Gordon SinClair
If you could share a meal with anyone in history, who would it be? Joan of Arc