Monika Sudakov
School
Chapman University, University Of Nevada Las Vegas
Expertise
Culinary Education, Food History, Food Anthropology
- In 2015, Monika became a Certified Culinary Professional with the International Association of Culinary Professionals
- She was the innkeeper and chef of an award-winning bed and breakfast featuring gourmet cuisine for 18 years.
- Her master's thesis entitled "Moroccan Tea Ritual: Religion, Gender, Socio-Economics and Hospitality" was published by Lambert Academic Press in 2010.
Experience
Monika has worked in the culinary field since 2005 as a chef, cooking instructor, and cookbook author. She began her career as a writer with regular contributions to the mental health website The Mighty, in 2016. Over the years she has written on topics related to chronic illness, trauma, cooking for dietary restrictions, and hospitality. In 2022, she fused her experience as a culinary professional with her research in food and culture and her acumen as a writer by joining the team at Today Meal.
Education
Monika has a bachelor's degree in French, a BFA in media performance, and a master's in cultural anthropology.
Today Meal’s content comes from an authoritative editorial staff that is dedicated to current and comprehensive coverage. With an aim to provide only informative and engaging content, our writers, editors, and experts take care to craft clear and concise copy on all things food-related, from news in the food service industry to in-depth explainers about what’s found in readers’ refrigerators, original recipes from experienced chefs, and more.
Our team also regularly reviews and updates articles as necessary to ensure they are accurate. For more information on our editorial process, view our full policies page.
Stories By Monika Sudakov
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Chicken stocks and broths are a staple for many. However, some of them are healthier than others. We've listed some of the unhealthiest ones you can buy.
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Canned leaf spinach is a great option to keep on hand that won't spoil. We ranked 7 of the most popular brands so you'll know which one is right for you.
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If you are lactose intolerant, there are many recipes that can be adjusted to suit your diet. Check out the ultimate guide to cooking dairy-free like a pro.
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We tried 18 different jarred olive brands and ranked each one based on look, smell, texture, and taste. Here's what we found out about each brand.
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Penne ranks among the favorite types of pasta for most people. However, not all penne brands are the same. Some are better than others. We've ranked them.
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The Olive Garden menu has changed substantially over the years, redefining our view on authentic Italian food. For better or worse, here's how.
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You may have opted for the more expensive beef labelled free-range before, but what does it mean? We made an ultimate guide to help you understand meat labels.
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Canned soups can be tasty, but most are loaded with sodium, saturated fat, and calories. Instead, give healthy homemade soup a shot with these cooking tips.
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Drinking wine can get expensive whether you buy it from a bar or a store, but was it always this way? This is how much wine cost the year you were born.
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While you might already love bacon, you may not be aware of its long history. Check out its origins, starting back from the ancient Chinese and onward.
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If you love green beans you may be excited to learn there are many types to chose from. We made a list of 14 different kinds you should get familiar with.
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Are you looking for hot honey or a sweet honey with floral notes? Depending on your needs and preferences, these store bought honeys might do the trick.
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A good cup of coffee requires high-quality beans. This guide will help you become a master at identifying the best beans, no matter where you enjoy your brew.
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Believe it or not, there are many other types of radishes. If you love cooking with this root vegetable, here are 14 varieties you should keep on your radar.
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You might know the feeling when a food you love becomes discontinued in stores. To fuel the nostalgia, here are 12 store-bought soups we aren't getting back.
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New England territory has a unique food scene developed by the vast immigration of people to the Americas. Here are 13 foods that represent that area.
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No, green salt isn't green because of food dye. It's also not salt at all. If you're confused, check out our guide on what this seasoning really is.
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Kale is filled with nutrients, but its bitterness can make it unappetizing. Choosing the appropriate variety and using the right cooking techniques can help!
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Did you know there are more than 1,200 types of sausages in Germany? That's a heck of a lot of choices! Here's our comprehensive guide to German sausages.
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Making crème brûlée is easier than you may think. Here are 14 tips that will empower you to make this dessert like a pro in your own kitchen.
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Cultures around the world use herbs and spices differently. From the Caribbean to the Middle East and beyond, here are 15 exotic spices and how to use them.
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Cottage cheese is a healthier alternative to many dishes requiring a creamy-like ingredient. Here's 13 ways you can use cottage cheese in your meals.
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Some cancelled cooking shows have left indelible marks on our psyches. We reminisce about a few that we'd love to have back on air.
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From seafood and spices to hearty soups and breads, Morocco is a foodie's dream. Our guide explores staples you must try when visiting this beautiful country.
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Mutton is the star ingredient in many flavorful dishes. But what exactly is it, what does it taste like, and what's the difference between mutton and lamb?
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Foodborne illness is no laughing matter, so when any sign of possible contamination is discovered, recalls are issued. We've seen quite a few so far in 2023.
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Modern-day gravy recipes are as diverse as the United States of America, and you'll find quite a few regional gravy styles across the country.