Scott Popovic
Corporate Chef for the Certified Angus Beef ® brand
Since he graduated cum laude graduate from Johnson and Wales University in Charleston South Carolina, Scott Popovic has made quite a name for himself in Cleveland. He’s been in the kitchen at XO Restaurant and Bar, Moxie, the Ritz-Carlton, and fire food and drink. Outside northeast Ohio, he’s cooked at Magnolia’s on Charleston, for Charlie Palmer at the Vegas outpost of Aureole as well as for the N9NE group at the Las Vegas Palms Casino. His appearances at The James Beard House have introduced him to a select group of New York City diners.
In 2006, he became the corporate chef for the Certified Angus Beef ® brand based in Wooster, Ohio. In this role, he travels around the country sharing product information, preparation tips and doing demos at special events, food shows and on TV and radio. He also works closely with chefs throughout the industry, introducing them to the premium brand. The job also gets him in the kitchen where he develops recipes for both professionals and home consumers.
Fabulous Food Show: When did you know you wanted to cook professionally?
Scott Popovic: When I was 15, my next door neighbor asked me to help with a catering job. After that evening there was no turning back -- I was hooked.
FFS: What is it that got you "hooked" on this crazy profession?
SP: I love the feeling that I get from seeing other people enjoying themselves from something I created. I also love the fast pace, camaraderie and the creativity of the kitchen.
FFS: Of all the things you're doing now, what's your favorite part of the job, the moment when you're glad you do what you do?
SP: That’s easy! I have a unique opportunity as the corporate chef for a brand to interact with consumers and share my love of cooking and food. I love to share the Certified Angus Beef ® brand story and educate people about the qualities of premium beef.
FFS: Have you got one bit of advice for home cooks?
SP: Always have fun in the kitchen -- and start with the highest quality ingredients possible. Use fresh, seasonal ingredients too and you can have the perfect dish any time of the year.
FFS: 5 great ingredients home cooks should keep on hand, (brief explanation of why is optional)?
SP:
1) Certified Angus Beef ® -- If you like beef as much as I do, it’s a must to choose the best. Its marbling means great flavor every time.
2) Kosher salt. This is the only salt I use for cooking. It has a much better, “cleaner” flavor than regular iodized table salt.
3) Shallots. They impart a sweetness into dishes (regular onions can have a harsh flavor).
4) Garlic. I love garlic.
5) A bottle of wine. Cooking and wine go hand in hand!
FFS: 3 kitchen tools/gadgets/accessories every home cook should have, (brief explanation of why is optional)?
SP:
1) A peppermill. I always use fresh ground pepper when I am cooking.
2) A sharp knife. No chef can work with a dull knife!
3) A set of tongs. I can use them as extensions of my hands, but can put them next to an open flame if needed.
FFS: It's your day off. What's your idea of the perfect meal to have at home?
SP: I would have to say it’s a tossup between a simple grilled Certified Angus Beef ® New York strip steak, or pasta with meatballs.