Singing about my supper!
Posted by Aarti on July 26th, 2010 . Filed under: Uncategorized .A little while ago, in New York, I took the train to the uber hip Williamsburg, in search of a church where one of my all-time favourite artists, Sufjan Stevens, has been known to perform (if you’re in New York, it’s Resurrection Church).
Sadly, he wasn’t there, but I did love the church. It was beautiful seeing such a young, hip generation singing some of the oldest hymns I know.
Once I got back to my hotel, I was checking my email, and one of those young hippers emailed me! Seems he and his wife had recognized me during the meet and greet, but hadn’t wanted to say anything. We got chitchatting, and hey presto! I sent him my Ezekiel’s Wheel Salad video, for his website, Bible Confrontatie, which as I understand is an artist’s response to the Bible.
Aaaaaaaaaaand… he wrote a song about me!
Well, it’s not so much ABOUT me, but is made entirely of the sounds he made whilst making my salad!
ISN’T THAT JUST THE COOLEST?
I am so excited about it! Check it out. Jonathan is such a talent!
-x-
aarti
July 26th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Hey Aarti –
I have been meaning to check out your blog since my daughter and I started watching the Next Food Network Star! – So its now 2 am and I am still checking it out – can’t wait to make the pumpkin oatmeal, i ain’t chicken chicken and I am excited to make this Ezekiel’s Wheel Salad too!
Anyway LOVE your blog, your recipes and your style! And especially your story!!! Love how God takes all our experiences and uses each one of them little by little to bring us to where we are –
I would say you are most definitely doing Him proud:)
July 27th, 2010 at 7:15 am
Yeah!!! Thanks, U R super. Aarti Paarti is grooovy X infinity!
July 27th, 2010 at 8:38 am
Aarti,
We just watched our recorded episode of NFNS and we thought we saw you reading your bible. We stopped the screen and sure enough you were! My family was so excited. It is easy to see that you have the joy of the Lord, your attitude and humility is an example for all.
We also enjoyed your blog entry about talking with Brad and the Coyote!
We are pulling for you and cant wait to try some “Indian” influence on our own foods.
Blessings,
Tom in Arkansas
July 27th, 2010 at 10:43 am
Hi Aarti! I love how warm and nice you are on the next food network star….and your blog is an exact reflection of your personality, fun and humble
I am cheering you on. I really, really want you to be the winner….it’ll be nice to have somebody with an Indian cooking background on the channel…..especially somebody as cute as you
P.S: I understand you completely when you say you have self-esteem issues(I have the same problem). But everytime you begin to doubt yourself, think about all the things you’ve accomplished so far…and no, don’t think of them as just flukes. The good things happened because you worked hard for them. GO AARTI!
July 27th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
How interesting and very, very cool! A song inspired by you and your food! I love Sufjan Stevens too. It’s always fun to check out different congregations and see how others worship. The salad looks terrific too. Yum!
July 27th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
Hi Aarti! Greetings from Pennsylvania!
I’m here now to tell you about the entry with Brad and the coyote. I don’t know what everyone else thinks, but I know it was a sign. God’s protecting you, Aarti. You’re making us proud and we’re all behind you.
I’ll pray for you but I know that you’re making him proud. I got tears in my eyes when I read this, thank you for bringing me joy daily.
July 27th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Aarti your warm, fun to watch and ease of presentation makes you my favorite to watch on NFNS! GO AARTI! We love u.
July 28th, 2010 at 7:38 am
Aarti I just wanted to say I’m so thrilled to find your website and blog. I’ve started watching your Aarti Paarti on youtube. You are so natural. I hope you win NFNS. I’m looking forward to seeing you on Food Network with your own show.
July 28th, 2010 at 10:56 am
Aarti,
My wife and I have become DIE HARD Food Network viewers, and along with that comes the tradition of always watching “the next food network star”. Got to tell you – my wife is IN LOVE with your culinary point of view.
Just last night we had some friends over and she made some tandori chicken. Each week she keeps mentioning to me, “I want her to win so that I can get all of her recipes.” Then we saw you reading and she was like, “Is that the Bible?” So we hit rewind on the DVR and sure enough there you were, reading from God’s Word. It solidified it – she is now one of your biggest fans. (And she’s turning me that direction, too!).
I know once she sees that you have a blog (how did we not realize that you were a blogger?) she will be reading your posts faithfully, and downloading ALL your recipes! By the way…where’s that tandori chicken recipe you mentioned on your food network page? It says you’d serve it to Jesus…why not let the rest of the public try it, too?
Regardless of whether you win or lose (we think you will win) know that you have certainly broadened your base of those who read and follow your blog. It’s obvious God has given you a passion for life, people, and for food! Keep up the awesome work!
Oh, and by the way – last season my wife picked Melissa D. from the start of the season. Not reading too much into it, but she’s been a fan of yours from day one, too! God Bless!
July 28th, 2010 at 11:55 am
Hi Aarti! I’ma big fan of NFNS, and this season, you have by far been my favorite! I told my husband the other night, “I think Aarti’s a believer. There’s something different about her than the other contestants.” Then, tonight, when I watched by recorded episode and saw, “food blogger” under your name, I decided to find the blog, and sure enough, you are a Christian! So, I just wanted to leave a comment letting you know that Christ definitely shines through you – thanks for all the great recipes, and I’m rooting you on! Being from the south, I haven’t cooked much Indian food, but I look forward to trying it!
July 28th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Aarti~
You passion and joy is so refreshing and I absolutely love your blog and show!!! You have effortless class as you bring to life your passion for all thing food. I especially enjoy how you season each show with just the right amount of humor as to not take yourself too seriously…keep up the awesome job!! Lastly and most importantly, I appreciate your humble devotion to the Lord…may you continue to use your talents and life to make Him proud!!
July 28th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Hey Aarti!
I made your Green Chicken Curry today and it was DELICIOUS! My family and I are rooting for you. I love your personality and your food.
Thanks and have a blessed day!
July 28th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
I cant wait to see you win and finally start doing your own cooking show!! U will be great!!
Annie
Philadelphia
July 28th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
You are just awesome! AWESOME! I can’t get enough of your excitement over so many of these dishes and your creativity is stellar! I haven’t missed an episode and every time you win, I squeal in delight so much so my boyfriend has decided I may be mentally unstable. HAHA!
Thank you so much for all the recipes, the ukulele skills, and most of all for your heart — it is sincere and it shows. I hope you win! You have THE TV personality.
xoxoV
July 28th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
Hi aarti,
I picked up on this show midway, around week 4 or so. But I’m totally INTO it now, and I’m cheering for you to win! I think you’ve got the best concept–Food Network definitely needs to branch out to Indian food–and a TV personality that I could actually watch every day. Also, I’m a fellow Northwestern grad, so that’s another reason why I’m rootin for ya
July 28th, 2010 at 6:27 pm
Me and the 2 K’s are rooting for you Aarti and hope you win. You Rock Girl !!!
July 28th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
Hey Aarti! Best of luck for the rest of NFNS! I really enjoy seeing what you make each week and hope we can have a whole series of shows with your great ideas. I’m looking forward to trying your veggie chili and hopefully many more recipes!
July 28th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
What a cool song and a really cool blog/project! Thanks so much for sharing!
July 29th, 2010 at 8:40 am
Hi Aarti Greetings from Jamaica!!! We are rooting and praying for you. We hope you win. Keep up the good work and continue to trust in the lord.
July 29th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
Because of you today I am so blessed. Blessed to tears actually. I just started today reading your blog after watching NFNS and seeing you reading the Bible in your room.
My past experience with food blogs had led me away because of the language. When I saw you reading your Bible I thought, “Surely her blog won’t be ugly”.
Not only is it not ugly it is a wonderful testament to how our Lord works in our lives in so many and varied ways. Especially when our calling is not to the pulpit!
It’s a great food blog too! I can’t wait to finish playing catch up. You have my total support on NFNS and on this blog.
May the best blessings continue to be yours!
July 29th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
My children and I just watched The Next Food Network Star we dvr’d from Sunday night…. My son and daughter jumped up and were SO excited when they saw you starting your day in God’s Word! Then my daughter said she knew there was something special in you and your personality…. my son said, and how cool that it’s Jesus! We were SO happy for you to win both challenges and are so hopeful you win the entire show. Regardless, stay strong in the Word and to who you are in Christ. What a great witness you are.
July 30th, 2010 at 9:53 am
I don’t know what is wrong with me, but I’m totally craving beans, pulses, and grains rather than meat lately (born in the midwest which should make me a card-carrying omnivore for life) – love Ezekiel’s Salad! Having it for lunch today, but already had a snitch. Thanks!
July 30th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
HI Aarti!
I have been watching you on NFNS and I am so excited for you! You have renewed my excitement for my (revamped) food blog! Thanks!
July 31st, 2010 at 11:53 am
I am an east indian living here in SFO and am so proud of the twist that you have in the indian food.
Would Love to see you as a winner here in NFNS
July 31st, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Hey Aarti!
We have been fans of yours since the first episode of NFNS- rooting for you to win.
BTW just made your baked samosas and mint chutney – so delicious! Can’t wait until we see you with your own TV show.
July 31st, 2010 at 7:05 pm
Hey Aarti! We’re rooting for you here in Jersey! We went up to Little India in Manhattan and in one of the restaurants they were all talking about you and how you make Indian food look less daunting. My mom loves your dal recipe and she’s not a lentil fan so it’s high praise! Good luck! You’re definitely the one to watch this season!
July 31st, 2010 at 7:21 pm
I’m really enjoying your work on NFNS….great to see a fellow Indian show the world that Indian food is mainstream!
Sometimes when you get a challenge, I find myself thinking “Oh, I know what I would make for that!” But I love watching what you come up with. Your cooking skills are evident and I love watching your great sportsmanlike attitude. Competitive but not Combative. A wonderful testimony and the kind that goes miles further than judging or preaching at someone.
God Bless! And I am rooting for you!
July 31st, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Hi Aarti! Sooo… I meandered on over to your site because my daughter and I root for you every week. We actually get behind because we aren’t home when the show airs but we DVR it and catch up when we can. So far, I have loved checking out your blog! AND was so happy, yet so not surprised to find out that you are a believer
I look forward to watching your videos!
August 1st, 2010 at 3:12 pm
That’s so cool Aarti!!! I’m glad I came and checked out our blog…I’m praying for you and your competition to be the NFNS. Give all the glory to the Lord, my sister in the faith, and God will give you an open door to your dreams!
Blessings!
August 1st, 2010 at 4:42 pm
So glad I found your blog. My family loves watching you on the Food Network competition. We are rooting for you.
Blessings!
August 1st, 2010 at 6:55 pm
Best of luck on the Next Food Network Challenge!
my wife and I enjoy watching you…
matt
marketmpb.blogspot.com
the most interesting marketing blog in the world
August 1st, 2010 at 8:02 pm
Aarti,
I want you to win the food network star!
You have the personality, talent, and most importantly God’s help.
If anyone can do this it is you.
Don’t doubt who God made you…and His ability in you.
Girl you got this!
August 1st, 2010 at 8:05 pm
Hi Aarti! I just want to say that you are friggin AWESOME, whether you are the winner of Food Network Star or not… obviously we don’t know yet b/c there are still a few weeks to go! You have been my favorite from day 1 and I hope you go far in life with your cooking, no matter what medium it will be in.
You also inspired me to start my own food blog and I am having so much fun with that already and it’s only been a week.
Keep being who you are!!
August 1st, 2010 at 8:20 pm
that is certainly fantastic – the song rocks! so, i’ve always loved you on the show and you have been my favorite the whole time. then on tonight’s episode when you brought out 1 john 4:18, i had to learn more about you! i was just beside myself to discover that you’re a fellow believer… which of course means that i like you even more. : ) i must say that you’ve already encouraged me to change the way i cook – my husband would call me plain jane in the kitchen, but now, i use spices! all because of you! you have to win because i’ll watch your show and learn so much. i admire you, you are so beautiful and i wish you all the best!
p.s. – i’m slightly jealous of your nose ring. i used to have one but had to get rid of it. it suits you perfectly.
August 1st, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Aarti–
My husband and I have been cheering for you from the start…how could we not?! An awesome Indian was on the NFNS! You have a smile that is contagious; it radiates joy and now I know why. Tonight I heard you quote scripture, was curious and finally took the time to look you up. You are just what the Food Network (and reality TV) needs right now! It’s time the rest of the world understands how yummy Indian food is (not just stinky curry!!) and who better to share that than someone as talented as you. Thank you Aarti, for allowing Jesus to shine through you. Remember that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it. You can do this!!!
August 1st, 2010 at 8:34 pm
OH MY GOODNESS!! I WAS SOOO SCARED YOU WERE GONNA GET CUT TONIGHT!!!!!! But thankfully you weren’t!!
Can’t wait to watch the show next week!! I totally look forward to coming home from church on Sunday nights and watchin the show.
August 1st, 2010 at 8:55 pm
Hi Aarti!
I’ve read your blog and watched you on YouTube for a while now and have been watching you on Next Food Network star every week. My family and I think your great and are pulling for you to make it through all the way to the end. You are the only one in the competition who I would watch on TV, so stay confident, stay charming, and always that you have fans like us who will be rooting for you. Best of luck and God bless!
Your biggest fan,
August 1st, 2010 at 9:36 pm
I’m sure I’m just another fan who’s meant to stop by and see your blog and videos after watching NFNS, but…! I love your personality, and I’m really rooting for you. Regardless, I’m adding you to my blogroll and my Google reader.
August 1st, 2010 at 9:52 pm
Aarti, I have been a fan of yours since the very first episode on NFNS. Every week I’m pulling for you, and every day I vote 10 times for you! I finally remembered you started a food blog, and thought I’d check it out. I’ve now read your whole blog starting back in 2007, and I’m just in love with your sweet spirit and smile even more! What a shining example of being used by God as His servant! I can only imagine the wonderful things He has in store for your life. Go Aarti Go, and I’m praying to see Aarti’s Paarti on the FN soon! I’m so excited about your POV, considering my exposure to Indian food comes from the frozen food section! I’ve been printing your recipes, and will have to do some major shopping to find some of these ingredients. So glad I found your blog! Go sister Go!!
August 1st, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Hey Aarti! i am so hoping and praying that you win…. we all love ur personality and your food (have already made several of your dishes). i know by the time you read this verdict for the 9 ep would be already out… (and i am seriously hoping that you make it thru it)…… please please please dont let ur lack of confidence come in your way of winning….u have everything to be on FN….. have faith in yourself… and in your lord…he is going to carry you thru…
best of luck
August 2nd, 2010 at 5:49 am
how can i follow your blog???
August 2nd, 2010 at 10:23 am
Aarti, First let me tell you how much my partner and I am in love with you and your food, even though we have not tasted it. It always looks and sounds so delish. I am writing in hope that you can offer us a simple yet delicious lamb curry recipe. It is my favorite indian dish and would love to be able to make it at home. On another note, we are looking forward to seeing your show in the fall on FN. I have faith that you will win. Best wishes….Michael
August 2nd, 2010 at 10:28 am
Hi Aarti,
Last night’s NFNS was nerve racking when I saw you in the bottom 3. My family and friends are all rooting for you and we wish you a very best of luck. We want to see you on the Network hosting our Indian delicacies.
August 2nd, 2010 at 3:18 pm
Just wanted to let you know that I was SO rooting for you during last night’s episode of NFNS. I was shocked at the outcome, but glad that you’re still in the running.
August 2nd, 2010 at 3:31 pm
Aarti,
Though I am rooting for you big, last night’s performance from you was below average.
Few things I would like to mention:
1) I understand your goal is to introduce Indian cooking to the mainstream American audience. This is not coming out in your stories or food.
2) While judges expect you to tell a story behind your food, try to provide examples of how you did something while cooking for your friends in Los Angeles v. repeatedly bringing your family stories.
3) In an attempt to stay with your roots, you are not connecting with larger audience. Read comments on Food Network website in the chat section to get a perspective.
4) Confidence — Its time to get it right and not lose it anymore. For example on Aug 1, even if you didn’t do well on cooking you could still have presented it with your usual charming style. For the first time in the last several weeks, I felt if you are sent home on Aug 1 it will not be unfair.
5) You need to watch Bobby Flay shows regularly. Many times his confident demeanor covers up for some avg food he cooks.
Good luck to you.
A well wisher
August 2nd, 2010 at 3:57 pm
I would advise you to not read the comments on Food Network website in the chat section because some of those people are mean,judgmental and racist with their comments. Stay true to who you are, who God made you.
Your food and personality are amazing. I can relate to you.
I really hope you can see that your truly an awesome gal and we (your fans) absolutely adore you.
I God be with you, then who can stand against you?
Have a blessed day! :]
August 2nd, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Sweet Aarti –
Yeah! I’m so glad to see you pushing forward to next week’s NFNS!!!! I recorded the show last night and watched it tonight while I was cooking dinner. Just as you were given okra as your least favorite item, I had just finished cutting a HUGE amount of okra for our dinner tonight. I completely cracked up laughing at the weird timing with that.
I really hope you win! I hope you will publish a cookbook regardless of the outcome of the show. I have drooled over every dish I’ve seen you make thus far.
Good luck!!!
August 2nd, 2010 at 6:27 pm
Hey Aarti,
Ever since I started watching the new food network star you have been my favorite.
I’m a vegetarian and would love to see you on Food Network cooking up some amazing vegetarian indian dishes.
GOOD LUCK!
August 2nd, 2010 at 7:21 pm
Hi Aarti,
You have a very high chance of winning the NFNS. However, you have got to earn it. How could you be so weak with “Fear” in last episode? Remember how you pulled off “Horror” in an earlier episode?
You have in it. Don’t lose it !!!! REMEMBER that the topmost priority for you is TASTE TASTE TASTE (since you already got the rest).
DON’T DISHEARTEN US BY LOSING!!!!!
BEST WISHES
August 2nd, 2010 at 7:25 pm
Hi aarthi,
Congrats on winning the most of the competition in NFNS challenge. I am an indian so i am proud that ur representing our food. Please Hold down to yourself , be more confident ,your are almost there , just give the selection committee variety of flavored food u basically grew up,what ur mom & grand mom feed u & add ur twist to it,
Can’t wait for the upcoming challenges , ALL THE BEST
U ROCK
August 3rd, 2010 at 6:33 am
Hi Aarti,
I watch NFNS just becoz of u…like the way u cook n talk bout Indian food…u r doing very gud dear n for me u r the WINNER…so dont worry bout the nxt challenges, just face them with that cute smile on ur face…cant wait to see ur show on food network.
Good Luck.
August 3rd, 2010 at 1:15 pm
Hi Aarti
I just wanted to post a note of encouragement for you.
I have believed from Day 1 that you will win The Next Food Network Star.
Have confidence in yourself. Know that God is in charge. He will never fail you in the path He has chosen for you.
God Bless !
August 3rd, 2010 at 2:09 pm
You are a gem, Aarti! How I ever missed that you were a food blogger, I don’t know–you’re now bookmarked with my other blogs and my money’s on you, girl! I need a show like yours on FN–keep yourself strong and focused.
August 3rd, 2010 at 3:28 pm
Hi Aarti!! You’re the BEST! I really want you to win the NFNS because you are very gifted with your cooking talents and experience in front of the camera. Please e-mail me!!!
August 3rd, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Aarti! Just wanted to say I love you on the NFNSI Please please please win so that I can watch your show every week and learn how to make Indian food! You are so fun and cute, and I really just want to be your best friend, but I will settle for watching you on TV.
Sarah
August 4th, 2010 at 11:31 am
Hi, Aarti I have been watching NFNS, and I have watching it from season 2 and it is one of my favourite show , but i never been huge fan of anybody , I like your personality and presentation.
But I was so nevours that you are going to be eliminated, and i am still nevers to watch the episode 9 with the previews it looked like you are on the hot seat again.
August 16th, 2010 at 5:05 pm
OMG! Aarti I am so happy for you. CONGRATULATIONS! I followed you from day one and down inside I knew you would win. you really do have star quality. I want to encourage you that no matter how hard it gets keep displaying confidence and trust in God. Again, Congratulations from you newest fan!
Cherelle
August 16th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
ah, I had no idea that you all would be there. will you be having any events in nyc this fall?
August 23rd, 2010 at 9:55 am
Hi Aarti: Congratulations on your Big Win. I got my husband to look at the last show and he was rooting for you. Good Luck and sometime I’ll send you some of our recipes from Trinidad, maybe you might like it. Roshni.
August 23rd, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Hi Aarti,
Congratulations on your win. God’s blessing on your show and future! Keep shining your light for him.
We do not have television stations or cable, so I have not seen you on Food Network Star. I found you through Jonathon’s site, Confrontatie. I put “Ezekial’s Wheel” on the menu for this week.
Keep doing what you do, and always for Him.
Christy
August 29th, 2010 at 10:59 am
You were wonderful. You are a natural. It was a perfect choice and a perfect win. Good Luck You were just amazing
August 29th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Hi Aarti,
Just wanted to congratulate you for a well-deserved win! You were a clear winner from the beginning, I felt. Aarti Party is now on my Tevo favorites. I have always been a fan of Indian food and love the uniqueness and diversity you bring to Food Network. Having a strong Asian/Desi presence on FN is long, long overdue!! You mean so much to many Asian women and girls, I’m sure.
Peace and love,
Dawn
p.s. Love the freshness/creativity of your blog. Wish I had found it sooner!
August 30th, 2010 at 8:47 am
Hi Aarti!!
I just love the set on your new show!! I wish that was MY kitchen!! Where ever did you find the wallpaper with the huge flowers?? I just adore it!!
I can’t wait to start experimenting with your receipes – everything looks delicious!!
Janet