Amanda Bretz
School
Florida Gulf Coast University, University Of Washington
Expertise
Craft Beer, Cooking, Food Preservation
- Amanda has written about or visited over 50 breweries in Western Washington State, the Oregon Coast, Alaska, and British Columbia.
- She worked in the PR department at a community college that launched the nation's first craft brewing and distilling program, and Amanda interviewed experts on the science behind making beer.
- In 2022, Amanda dove into food preservation by learning to ferment, dehydrate, and can food at home.
Experience
Amanda started out as a feature reporter for community newspapers, but over the past decade, she's written for numerous print and online outlets. While she never had a dedicated "beat" as a feature writer, she often interviews chefs and restaurateurs. When she isn't writing, she's most likely in the kitchen and over the past several years, Amanda has combined her two passions to write about food. Her articles have appeared in regional publications such as Feast Magazine, a food magazine based in St. Louis.
Education
Amanda studied journalism at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, FL. and got her start as a feature reporter for a weekly newspaper. In 2019, Amanda continued her education with a certificate in Storytelling & Content Strategy from University of Washington in Seattle. This continuing education program is aimed at strengthening storytelling skills through incorporating classic storytelling elements, content strategy, and using data to tell a compelling story to the right audience.
Tasting Table’s editorial coverage hails from a veteran group of writers and editors with expertise in their respective fields in the food and drink, hospitality, and agriculture industries. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information and original recipes.
We strive to publish knowledgeable, engaging articles to give readers the information they're looking for, whether that is the news of the day; cooking tips, tricks, and trends; or reviews and recommendations. In an effort to provide the most comprehensive, current, and accurate content, our team is constantly reviewing and updating articles as necessary. Click here for more information on our editorial process.
Stories By Amanda Bretz
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Before kilning was available, malt was dried in a way that imparted a unique flavor into the grain.
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The way most of us are used to lining cake pans is a bit of a tedious process. Luckily, there's an easier way to do it and it's so simple.
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You'll want to take this one preventative step to ensure eggs don't stick or burn to the edges of your slow cooker.
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Ready to create a barbeque sauce that stays stuck to your meat? There's one surprising ingredient that is sure to add sticky sweetness to your sauce.
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Pumpkin spice has grown in popularity in recent years, but where did pumpkin pie spice actually come from? Here's what you need to know about this spice blend.
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If you're looking to save a little money on your grocery bill, or you're eager to try something new, consider swapping out a chuck eye steak for a ribeye.
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Despite all the benefits, there's another tricky thing about cast iron — it's only as good as the care you put into it.
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Fried chicken is a favorite meal of many, and there are many different recipes and variations you can try. Here is why the size of your chicken matters, though.
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Before you buy your next serving of this versatile vegetable, make sure to pick the right size.
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Cube steak, also called Swiss steak, is an inexpensive cut that usually comes from the top or bottom round, which means it's near the rump of the cow.
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Making a cherry pie at home is easy enough, but sometimes the filling can be tart. Here's the mistake you should stop making to get a perfect cherry pie.
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The state that produces the most eggs is more widely known for growing corn.
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When it comes to home canned tomatoes, there's one variety that holds up and delivers the best flavor.
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Mushrooms are wonderful in that they can be used in many different ways and for countless uses. Here is what makes mushroom powder such a versatile addition.
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Ina Garten (also known as the "Barefoot Contessa") has shared how taking one extra step will boost the flavor of a one-pan meal.
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If you're watching your waistline, have a dairy allergy, or are vegan, you may be missing creamy pasta sauce. However, there's a dairy-free alternative.
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When it comes to home food preservation, two methods that most of us are familiar with are home canning and freezing. There are many benefits to freezing.
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If you've wondered whether freezing cooked chicken is a good idea, it is. Here's how to use this method to save money and cover several dinners down the line.
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This brewing method can be traced back to the 1830's, when one of the first patents filed for a vacuum device was held by a German man named Loeff from Berlin.
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Barley is a versatile and healthy grain that can be used in various ways in dishes. Here's why you should always keep this ingredient in your pantry.
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Cured meats can be found in many home kitchens. From charcuterie boards to pizza ovens, these are sought after. Here is why you should never can cured meats.
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French fries are a comfort yet wildly unhealthy side dish. For those adhering to a keto diet, there is an alternative vegetable you can use to make your fries.
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Although it has many practical uses, replacing cooking oil with beef tallow in many recipes can be a smart and delicious choice.
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St. Louis-style pizza stands out for a few reasons, including the type of crust, an abundance of toppings, and the unusual way it's cut.
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Brew enthusiasts in the U.S. may know plenty about beer, but they may not know all about the story behind the beverage.
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While the coffee giant is famous for their java, there's another drink that people flock to Starbucks for and the reason might surprise you.
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This is the best way to keep your pasta leftovers as delicious as the first day.