The plane wheels touch down on a La Guardia airport runway. It’s my first trip to New York City and I am eager and excited for all that the next few days might hold. Yes, there will be business meetings for the most part, but it’s Manhattan! This isn’t television or movies or a book. I’m here to experience the shops, the landmarks, the sights and sounds for myself!

The ride from the airport to my hotel has me looking out the windows looking for a glimpse of anything I might recognize. And yet, what captivates me is the delightful conversation with my driver. We exchange stories about our families and we laugh at how similar our life experiences have been, even though we are miles and cultures apart.

Sometimes, it all comes down to a few basic ingredients. It's not always about the most exotic spices, or the gourmet sauce, or the exotic type of fish from remote island waters. Don't get me wrong, I love nothing more than discovering new and exciting taste sensations. But pork roast and potatoes can be just as satisfying.

I grew up on routine, fairly bland dishes. After salt and pepper, there were not many other spices to be found in my mother's kitchen. I learned about seasoning, sauces, and meats other than beef and pork as I grew up and interacted with different families and with different cultures.