Verona Resident Re-Defines 'Comfort Food'

For chapter two in the life of Verona resident, Cardie Mortimer, cooking was the natural choice. During his 27 year career as an executive with ABC Television, Mortimer often cooked or consulted on cooking, in addition to his work at ABC. When an early retirement opportunity came up, Mortimer was free to resume what he was trained for 30 years earlier at the New Orleans Culinary Institute: cooking for others.

Following in the footsteps of chefs like Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme, who were often speakers at his school, Mortimer soon realize just how important cooking would become in his life.

Soon after retirement, with little rest in between, Cardie Cooks, Mortimer’s catering and private chef service was born. Just as the business started taking off, back problems set in, requiring surgery, which left Mortimer's left leg paralyzed.

As Mortimer said, “Baking, roasting, sautéing and stuffing now turned into coping with pain and learning how to walk again.” Recuperating at the Caldwell Care Center, weeks had passed before Mortimer was ready to be released. As a way of saying thank you to the staff of therapists and caretakers, he offered a gourmet, New Orleans-style meal from the hands of Chef Cardie Mortimer.

Cooking in the kitchen of the care center, Mortimer realized, “This was incredibly therapeutic for me. I entertained the observers with cooking skills, anecdotes and jokes, both good and bad. We had great fun and this was before the meal was served. The meal thrilled those who got to taste the fruits of my labor. I took care of them instead of them taking care of me.”

The head of the care center invited Mortimer back to entertain and provide another cooking presentation, this time for some of the patients. That’s when Mortimer discovered the benefits of Culinary Therapy. Now, Mortimer takes his show on the road to senior living centers, healthcare facilities and also has plans to expand to more fundraisers, schools and clubs.

“The sizzling sounds, rich aromas and mouth-watering flavors of good food can be very comforting,” Mortimer added. “We do more than demonstrations, we usually feed 50-75 people afterward as well.”

Mortimer explained, “My catering and private chef service provides some financial rewards, but most of the time we volunteer to provide a Culinary Therapy presentation. I have great assistance from chef Maureen Rosin along with Billy Frazee, a Verona police officer and friend for over 25 years. For us, the sense of accomplishment and mutual rewards are truly valuable but I would welcome having a corporate sponsor to help with the costs.”

Mortimer is also on the staff of the Kings Supermarket Cooking Studio in Short Hills and on Oct. 5 and 6, he will be participating in the Soup-er Bowl at Morris Knolls High School in Denville.

Mortimer says he's glad provide for others the comfort he experienced through cooking when he was the one in need of comfort.

“This is my chance to give back a little. Seeing the faces of a contented crowd is all the therapy one could ask for. If they’re happy, I’m happy.”

For more information on Cardie Cooks and upcoming Culinary Therapy presentations, go to CardieCooks.com or call, toll free, 877-359-4829.