While known for his dramatic portrayal of an overbearing chef in FX's \"The Bear,\" actor and comedian Joel McHale's real-life kitchen experiences are filled with enthusiasm and skill, a refreshing departure from his on-screen intensity. Beyond the demanding culinary roles, McHale embraces cooking as a joyful pursuit, especially when it involves meat. He prides himself on his proficiency in preparing various cuts, often planning elaborate meals for guests. This culinary flair extends to his past television appearances, where he has demonstrated his aptitude, even surprising seasoned chefs with his abilities.
McHale's dedication to mastering the grill and smoker is evident in his choice of high-quality equipment. He relies on a robust Pitts & Spitts smoker, likening its durability to a military tank, for expertly smoking pork tenderloin and Chateaubriand. His cooking repertoire also includes diverse dishes such as smoked tri-tips for Thanksgiving and a unique chicken breast preparation with tomato and Iberico ham sauce. Beyond specialized equipment, McHale values practical kitchen tools like tongs, even engaging in playful debates with professional chefs about their utility. His approach to cooking, particularly steak, involves meticulous seasoning and a specific technique of pressing the meat for a perfect crust, often culminating in a satisfying steak-and-eggs meal.
In addition to his grilling prowess, McHale emphasizes the importance of key pantry items that elevate his cooking. He favors Wagyu beef tallow and ghee for their richness and ability to enhance flavors, noting that using ghee instantly signals a serious cook. His daily routine includes a significant amount of coffee, reflecting his Pacific Northwest roots and past experience at a coffee cart. McHale's preference for Seattle's Best Coffee also extends to their recent collaboration with XO Marshmallow, incorporating coffee-flavored marshmallows into his beverages. Surprisingly, a more casual staple in his kitchen is a supply of gourmet instant ramen, a personal favorite from David Chang's Momofuku line, which he enjoys as a late-night snack, humorously clarifying its storage in his pantry rather than with his winter clothing.
Joel McHale's culinary journey showcases that passion and dedication can transform an everyday task into an art form. His willingness to embrace different techniques and tools, from high-end smokers to humble tongs, along with his appreciation for both gourmet and comfort foods, highlights a balanced and joyful approach to cooking. Ultimately, his story inspires us to find and cultivate our own passions, turning simple acts into rewarding experiences that bring happiness and connection, proving that excellence and enjoyment can coexist in unexpected places.