Yes, a whole deal to write a cookbook, in the middle of the pandemic! Here’s how it happened: 

So one evening in September 2020, I was chillin… literally sitting on the couch (probably with wine because the hours are always happy in my house lol) when I received an email from Ulysses Press, a book publishing company. I quickly opened it up and the email presented an interest in me authoring a cookbook! I was so intrigued by the initial idea they presented and wanted to know more. After a couple of quick exchanges, the publishing company set up a meeting to chat about the opportunity. 

During the meeting, the publisher further explained the concept of a mayonnaise themed cookbook. Initially I was taken aback because of all things to write a cookbook, why mayonnaise? Then as our conversation continued, the explanation backed with the research had me impressed. Shortly after our meeting, my mind constantly began drifting to countless dishes and sauces that included mayo and suddenly I was down for the challenge. 

The publishing company presented their offer for the project and after negotiations (because EVERYTHING can be negotiated) they presented a mutually beneficial contract and I SIGNED! 

At this point I was geeked, but don’t think I fully grasped the magnitude of what was happening.  I always wanted to become a published cookbook author, but figured this would come some day down the line when “I made it” or “Became more known” etc. But God had other plans for me and this opportunity could not have come at a more perfect time. Shortly after signing (and receiving my coins lol) I got to work!

There was not a day that went by that I was not working on creating this cookbook in some capacity. Literally everyday, from the end of September to December, was spent writing, testing or editing recipes. Even while starting other projects outside of the kitchen and all the chaos in the middle of the pandemic, I was getting to do what I always wanted to do - what I was called to do and I never felt more at peace. The kitchen is my solace. It’s where my family and I gathered daily while growing up and where I learned how to cook all the family recipes -‘any of which you will find in this cookbook.  It’s where my late Grammy and I talked, laughed and I got an ear full of knowledge and wisdom. It’s where I relive and feel those memories the most. It was where I brought my cookbook dream to life. 

The date to share my final manuscript with the publishing company finally came and I was ready. I was up early bright eyed and submitted the document with a smile on my face and a sigh of relief and accomplishment. The next few months were dedicated to more testing, a whole lot of edits, copy and design - I had no idea all of this went into publishing a book. 

Fast forward to today and I am full of joy while writing these words to present my first published cookbook to the world - The Mayonnasie Cookbook. This was a journey of a lifetime and every minute of it has felt amazing! In this cookbook, you will find recipes that contain the most popular condiment. Sometimes mayo will be the star and sometimes just a supporting cast member to help bring the dish together. 

There many popular recipes like the spicy chicken sandwich or spinach artichoke dip, family recipes such as my mama’s chicken salad and even recipes for cookout season like potato or macaroni salad (please don’t get caught slippin’ this summer lol)

Wherever you fall on the mayo spectrum from love it to not a fan (I won’t judge,) thank you for being here and for reading - Your support means so much to me! To all my fellow mayo lovers out there, I hope you find as much joy in cooking these recipes as I did with creating them. I know you will love them and as always, happy cooking! 

- Erin