Thais’s passion for cooking was born in her grandmother’s kitchen in Delano, CA. With a deep love for testing recipes and creating new flavors, she brings decades of hands-on experience to every dish. From comforting classics to creative twists, Thais ensures every recipe is flavorful, reliable, and made with heart.
About Thais Arleen Maravilla
Welcome to my kitchen! I’m Thais Arleen Maravilla, and I’m so glad you’re here. I was born on 06 Oct, 1983, and I call Delano, California my home. Nestled on High Street in a warm, bustling neighborhood, my life has always revolved around food, family, and community. I’ve spent decades honing my craft, fueled by a passion that started in my grandmother’s kitchen and has grown into a vibrant culinary journey.
Personal Interests
When I’m not in the kitchen, I love traveling to discover regional flavors, reading vintage cookbooks, and experimenting with edible flowers in my garden. My favorite cuisines to cook and eat are deeply rooted in my heritage and experiences—Mexican, Southern Californian fusion, and Mediterranean.
I find endless inspiration in the little things: the scent of roasted chilies on a summer afternoon, the way dough feels when it’s just right, or the joy of watching someone taste a dish I’ve poured my heart into. My favorite tools? A seasoned cast-iron skillet, a wooden spoon handed down from my mom, and an open mind.
Professional Background
My formal training began in my late twenties when I enrolled in culinary school in Fresno, but my real education came from long hours working in local bakeries and family-owned diners. Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of roles—line cook, pastry chef, food stylist, and most recently, as a recipe developer for both home kitchens and professional test labs.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned to balance precision with playfulness. My test kitchen in Delano is my sanctuary, where I create recipes designed to work every single time, whether you’re a beginner trying out your first loaf of bread or a seasoned chef developing a new menu.
My Story
As a young girl, I used to stand on a stool beside my grandmother, pressing masa into tortillas and watching her coax magic out of simple ingredients. That early enchantment never left me. I started documenting our family recipes in a weathered notebook, which grew into an archive of flavor and memory. Eventually, I realized that food wasn’t just a necessity or a tradition—it was my language.
That realization inspired me to build a space where I could share not just recipes, but stories, techniques, and a bit of my soul. My work is about more than cooking; it’s about connection. I want every dish I share to feel like an invitation, a chance to slow down, gather, and savor.
What I Offer
Here, you’ll find meticulously tested recipes for everything from hearty dinners and elegant desserts to sauces, breads, and plant-based meals. Each one comes with step-by-step instructions, thoughtful notes, and often, a story. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a dinner party, or just yourself, I want my recipes to be your trusted companions.
I’m proud to be part of a broader team of culinary creatives. Meet our Team and get to know the brilliant minds who inspire and support this journey.
Join the Community
Cooking is a deeply human act. It’s about feeding, yes, but also celebrating, comforting, and sharing. I hope you’ll join our community of food lovers and bring your own flavor to the table. Share your dishes, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
Thank you for stopping by and spending a little time in my world. From my home in Delano to your kitchen, let’s cook something unforgettable.
Connect with Me
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | TikTok | Youtube
With warmth and spice,
Thais