Table Talk with Caprial and John Pence

With whom would you like to cook?
John: My grandmother, who died several years ago and whom Imiss terribly
Caprial: James Beard

Whom would you like to have cook for you?
John: Mick Jagger, because it would be fun-probably not verygood food, but fun
Caprial: Our friend Naushab in New York. He is Pakistani andhas always promised to cook for us, but there is never enough timewhen we visit.

Who was/is the most influential person in your life?
John: Caprial
Caprial: John, and also my parents

What does your kitchen lack that you would like to have?
John: A bigger dining area
Caprial: A walk-in pantry

What's your most indispensable tool?
John: My grill
Caprial: My chef's knife

What's in your refrigerator right now?
Lots of mustards, Asian condiments, milk and juice for thekids, different cheeses, eggs, butter, truffle butter, apples, anda few vegetables

What are your top three pantry staples?
Salt, olive oil, and cheese

What is your favorite indulgence?
John: A good doughnut or maybe potato chips
Caprial: A corn dog once a year at the state fair

What do you crave when you're sick?
John: Tomato soup with buttered croutons on top
Caprial: A soft-boiled egg on toast if I've had the stomachflu, hot-and-sour soup if I've had a cold

What have you eaten that you never want to eat again?
Both: Sea urchin roe. I's a texture thing.