Frequent Questions
How does Jeff’s Personal Chef Service work?
First, we will meet to determine what your needs are (i.e. frequency of dinner preparations - weekly, bi-monthly, whether you prefer the Standard Service or Fresh Service, etc.). Then we will discuss your food likes, dislikes, allergies and special dietary requirements. We will then decide on your first week's meals and formulate a menu. We will shop on the way to your home, prepare your meals (using our own equipment), package and label them (for the freezer or refrigerator) and leave your kitchen just as we found it.
Yes, I can prepare your meals in the safety of your own kitchen. On our agreed upon cooking date we will bring the freshest ingredients available for your meals along with our own pots, pans and utensils, and prepare your entrees on site. At the end of the day we will leave your kitchen just as I found it and full of the aroma of good home cooking!
I will be cooking several different entrees and side dishes from scratch, so it will take several hours. We cannot say exactly how many hours, but it will probably range anywhere from 3-5 hours. However, I am very willing to work with your schedule or situation and make arrangements, in advance, so that our cook date and your schedule are compatible.
I'll be home that day. Is it okay if I watch or help?
This can be a delicate situation, as we will be preparing several different recipes simultaneously and cannot be distracted by conversation, pets, kids, etc. It would be too easy to forget an ingredient or to forget about something in the oven. I would be happy to chat with you or answer any questions for a few minutes before or after cooking for you. Also, we are always happy to answer any questions or take suggestions either by phone or e-mail.
Yes. Any entrees and side dishes that have been stored for you in your freezer should be defrosted overnight in your refrigerator and heated, to be enjoyed at the peak of their flavor. I always leave you with easy to follow heating instructions for each entree and side dish that has been prepared.
How much freezer space do you need?
It depends on the number of meals you request, and the sizes of the containers, but it does generally require a considerable amount of freezer space. At the assessment, we will take a look at your freezer to see just how much room you have available. Efficient storage is one of the reasons I prefer to select the appropriate size, uniform storage containers for our clients.
How often will we need your service?
I'll be happy to help you determine just how often you will want to schedule our Personal Chef Service to best serve your needs. I'll make sure it supports your busy lifestyle without putting any pressure on you.
Once again, uniform size containers take less storage space in your freezer, and I will bring the appropriate containers for the entrees that I am preparing for each cooking date. Unless it has been determined otherwise, for most dishes I will be using heavy-duty vacuum-sealed bags, which have been designed to eliminate air pockets and will greatly enhance the quality of food that is being stored in the freezer. I will also use a combination of containers that will be suited to the particular dish. However, if there is an entree that would be better suited in your own casserole or baking dish I can arrange that.
The cost seems to be about what I would pay for an entree in a restaurant. Why is that?
My fee represents all of the components that make up a professional personal chef service. For example, the assessment process that I complete to determine your likes, needs, special dietary requirements and requests is used to customize your menu selections. I will modify all of my recipes to reflect your wants and needs; meal selections are submitted for your approval; all of the groceries needed for your meals are included; and your meals are all prepared in the safety of your own kitchen. Plus, packaging, labeling and storing your entrees are all features included in this price.
Do I pay you ahead of each cooking date?
Yes, it is customary to pay for the service in advance of your cooking date. This allows me to purchase all that I may need for your meals. If you prefer you may leave a check for the upcoming cooking date on the day we are cooking.
How long will the food last us?
Depending on how many entrees you order, and how many evenings you eat at home I can determine approximately how long your meals will last. If you travel for business, or entertain in restaurants during the week or just enjoy eating out on occasion the meals will take you further than if you eat one each night. There are always enough for leftovers. Each meal carefully packaged and clearly labeled with easy to follow reheating instructions. I then schedule a delivery time and within 15-30 minutes of getting home you can enjoy a delicious meal personally designed and prepared for you. Many clients order enough meals to fill the fridge for a week, the ultimate in convenience. I can prepare anything you desire, but please check out our sample menus to view some of my specialties.
Think about it, would you rather shop for groceries, prepare the food, cook and then wash all those dishes or spend that time with your family or doing other things you love to do?
Of course, if you have any other questions, just give us a call! We'd love to hear from you.
topJeff Kaufman
83214 Requa Rd.
Indio, Ca. 92201
760-863-5752 760-835-1348
jkaufman@dc.rr.com
