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Steinhardt freshman Russell Fisher has a kitchen worth talking about.
Fisher said the best part of living in University Hall is having an accessible kitchen and perfect-sized refrigerator. A performance major who is extremely dedicated to his music, Fisher is a man of many passions and talents — one of these passions happens to be cooking. That is why when one opens his refrigerator, it seems like he or she is in a grocery store or high-end restaurant.
“Preparing delicious dishes and baked goods brings me closer to my roommates and gives my friends an excuse to come over and socialize,” Fisher said. “To me, it is always necessary to have the right ingredients and a full fridge.”
This winter he is stocking up and getting into the holiday spirit by creating main dishes, sides and desserts that will prepare his roommates and peers for the upcoming season.
Santa’s Helpers Breakfast
Fisher believes in starting the holidays early. To get into the spirit, he created a special holiday breakfast that includes cheese, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage and Christmas tree-shaped pancakes.
In addition to the usual eggs, milk and cheese, Fisher makes sure he has a container of pancake batter and the appropriate meats available in his fridge.
“Last weekend I tried Russell’s Santa’s Helpers breakfast for the first time and was immensely impressed,” said Stern sophomore Daniel Cho, Fisher’s personal friend.
Snowman Cookies
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a fresh batch of holiday-themed cookies. This year, Fisher is choosing a snowman theme, making all of his treats imprinted with a colorful snowman or snowflake icon.
Fisher has a large mixing bowl, medium-sized bags of flour, powdered sugar and, of course, a long roll of sugar or chocolate chip cookie dough.
Stuffing for Elves
Using a recipe passed on from his grandmother, Fisher concocts a can’t-miss stuffing sensation. Combining breadcrumbs, butter, celery, onions and garlic — all ingredients are either stored in his refrigerator or pantry. Fisher whips up pounds of this side dish to compliment the main course: stocking-shaped chicken cutlets.
Mini Pizza Bagels and Oreos
Fisher is a student with diverse acquaintances and a wide range of interests. He is sure to take picky eaters into consideration and provide a couple of simple, alternative options for those who do not like to experiment with his recipes.
“Anybody who knows me is aware that I always stock up,” Fisher said. “I have a box of pizza bagels and a package of store-bought cookies in my fridge at all times. I don’t think I’d be able to survive without them.”
Kimberly Schu is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].