Standish913.com has been blessed to do an exclusive interview with...
"KEONA HOGAN"!
Let's get into some exclusive questions...
STANDISH: What is the first thing you ever remember cooking?
Pancakes for sure! My grandma always made them with bisquick so they would be so thick and fluffy, I could only ever eat one!
STANDISH: Who is someone you looked up to as a child & still do today?
I would probably say my oldest sister. She was a huge inspiration for me growing up, and by watching her I learned a lot about creative expression. She still is a fashion icon to me, and one of my biggest fans, too!
STANDISH: What is something you hate doing in the kitchen?
Breaking down chicken is definitely one of my least favorite things in the kitchen. I always have to wear gloves cause I am a bit of a germophobe and I couldn’t live with myself if I got anyone sick.
STANDISH: What was the most nerve racking part of being on Hell's Kitchen?
I think the most nerve racking part was the reality part of the competition. It was hard for me to try to forage real connections with my competitors but also be focused on my own performance. I felt like everyone else had someone they connected with the most but me, but I’m also used to flying solo so it wasn’t a surprise.
STANDISH: How was working with Gordon Ramsay?
It was great! He’s a very interesting person, and you can feel his passion for his work. I felt like we could connect over our childhood experiences, so I feel I was able to relate to his passion for success!
STANDISH: Did you expect to land Hell's Kitchen?
I actually didn’t expect to land the show. I had just begin to build a small following (literally a little over 200 people) on my professional profile, and I received a direct message from a casting director. I really didn’t even believe it and thought someone may be trying to scam me or something. I guess I was just at the right place at the right time and God decided it was my moment.
STANDISH: What is your favorite food for take out? Why?
My favorite take out would probably be any type of curry. I love how comforting curry dishes are, and how nourishing they can be to your body. I feel like it’s my favorite because it’s a good balance of indulgence and is also healthy.
STANDISH: Tell the readers your reoccurring kitchen nightmare…
My kitchen nightmare is probably cutting off a finger to be completely honest. I know it sounds really stereotypical, but I feel pretty relaxed in the kitchen for the most part so it’s always related to like losing a finger, a hang getting stuck in a garbage disposal or some other gruesome situation.
STANDISH: What is the most underrated cooking ingredient in your opinion?
Hmmm, that’s a tough one. Maybe sweet potatoes…. They are so nutrient dense, extremely versatile, come in many many varieties, and are so delicious anytime of year.
STANDISH: What do you listen to while you chef it up?
I usually listen to old school music from the 60s, 70s, and some stuff from the 80s & 90s. Some of my favorites are Sade, Roy Ayers, and Chaka Khan.
STANDISH: How many times a week does the walk-in cooler hear your screams?
This is hilarious! I am currently working less in the kitchen and more behind the scenes these days….. It was an intentional shift I made to create a healthier, more sustainable career for me in food. So thankfully, no screaming in the walk-ins for me.
STANDISH: If you could change one thing in the world today, what would that be?
If I could change anything in the world today, it would be to make sure everyone has access to HEALTHY, and DELICIOUS food. I would also make sure everyone has the education to properly prepare those foods, too.
STANDISH: What are your social links?
Instagram: @kf.hogan @lifesupportfoods @kurryout
TikTok: @keonahogan
STANDISH: Anything else you'd like to include?
I am currently working on the grand opening of my VERY FIRST restaurant concept, “KURRY OUT!” A fast casual concept featuring Blasian (black and Asian fusion) cuisine, traditional curries and classic Baltimore takeout food. We will be opening THIS SUMMER!
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