Amanda Puck is quite simply, a whirlwind. She was the first host of the popular “Check, Please” show on WTTW-Channel 11, where she won two Emmys during the two seasons she steered the panel as they discussed their favorite Chicago restaurants.
As a much loved foodie, she’s transferred this love to Mariano’s, where she is Director of Strategic Brand Development. She (and Mariano’s) are also important in the community, building awareness for brands such as the Bud Billiken Parade, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago Gourmet and I Am A Gentleman INC. (a nonprofit that empowers young men for successful careers and healthy lifestyles).
In her time off, she and husband Billy Rairigh love drinking and learning about wine from their two favorite wine clubs: Mavens and Aficionados and Rimessa Roscioli. They also love walking around Chicago, taking road trips, making pasta and traveling to Italy. At home, you will always find them in the kitchen listening to their favorite musician, Louis Prima.
When cooking for friends and family, one of Amanda’s top go-to dishes is fennel turkey meatballs, which she said, “paired with your favorite pasta is divine.”
Fennel Turkey Meatballs
l 1 package Jenni O Lean Turkey 99% - I know this sounds crazy, but trust me and my family, they are delicious
l 2 cloves garlic, chopped
l ¼ cup breadcrumbs
l ¼ Mariano’s White Gold Parmigiano Reggiano grated from cheese department
l ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
l One egg
l Splash of water
l Salt and pepper
l Crushed red pepper flakes
You can grind whole fennel seeds, to taste, I would do 1TBSP. I love fennel flavor! You can also omit it, if you don't like fennel, and the dish is still AWESOME!
Add ingredients into a really big bowl and thoroughly mix together with your hands.
Roll into about 2-inch size balls—I bake mine on a cookie sheet, for about 15 minutes until done on 350 degrees, but you can lightly pan fry them as well.
Perfect with your favorite pasta, a little butter, chickpeas, sauteed spinach and cheese.
Thanks so much Amanda! Bon appetit everyone!
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