Location
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
School
Universidad de la Sabana, University of the Arts London
Expertise
Hands-on cooking classes, Recipe development, Latin American cuisine
- Maria spent more than three years as a cooking demonstration host and ambassador for America's Test Kitchen aboard cruise ships, teaching culinary techniques to thousands of guests while sailing around the world.
- Maria's love of cookbooks has led her to build an extensive collection. Fascinated by how tried and tested recipes are preserved in print and passed down through generations, she hopes to one day author a cookbook of her own.
- In 2022, Maria interviewed fellow Colombian chef Leonor Espinosa, recipient of The World's Best Female Chef award. At the awards ceremony, she unexpectedly shared sushi with the Roca brothers and Massimo Bottura, and she admits she is still a little starstruck.
Experience
Maria likes to describe herself as an avid cook, but even more so an avid eater. After gaining experience in professional kitchens, including a stage at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Spain, she joined America's Test Kitchen, where she refined her skills in recipe testing, culinary education, and food communication. She later went on to develop recipes for Simply Recipes, work as a features writer for Lovefood.com, and serve as deputy editor at LoveINC, while also contributing to publications including Vice and HuffPost. She now divides her time between food writing, recipe development, and teaching culinary skills to amateur and professional cooks at the Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy. In her spare time, she can usually be found tracking down great pastries, spending too much time and money at food markets, or hosting lavish food parties for friends.
Education
Maria holds a bachelor's degree in gastronomy from Universidad de La Sabana and a master's degree in arts and lifestyle journalism from the University of the Arts London.
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.
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Starbucks
By Maria Ritchie 6 days ago
We know all about the PSL, but there's a different fall-forward beverage you need to try. This sweet and nutty latte tastes exactly like autumn.
By Maria Ritchie 6 days ago
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Baking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 8 days ago
Give a simple moist banana bread recipe the showstopper treatment with this extra ingredient that adds sweetness and a flavor boost.
By Maria Ritchie 8 days ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 8 days ago
Add in a packet of onion soup mix and this holiday staple to pulled pork, and you have a dish that tastes like the best Thanksgiving leftovers.
By Maria Ritchie 8 days ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 9 days ago
Although you can get away with using most pans to prepare French toast, one choice of cookware definitely makes the process way easier — here's why.
By Maria Ritchie 9 days ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
Next time you're thinking of scrambling eggs, this easy hack is an easy way to boost your fiber instake at breakfast, or any other time of the day.
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
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Baking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
This simple fall-inspired dessert combines pumpkin puree and graham crackers into perfectly portioned squares for an easy on-the-go treat.
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
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How-Tos
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
This easy method for cutting extremely even and slender triangles of hard cheese will make your next cheeseboard look sophisticated and professional.
By Maria Ritchie 10 days ago
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Restaurants
By Maria Ritchie 11 days ago
Freshness isn't always a guarantee when it comes to the seafood served at restaurants. So, if you spot this saucy misstep, consider it a warning.
By Maria Ritchie 11 days ago
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Starbucks
By Maria Ritchie 14 days ago
Starbucks' secret menu drinks are fun, creative, and delicious - but they're not on the actual menu. That's why you should follow this rule when ordering them.
By Maria Ritchie 14 days ago
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Baking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 15 days ago
Cornbread is perfect as a vessel for countless mix-ins — but one recipe is guaranteed to spice up your meal with fresh flavors and zesty vibrancy.
By Maria Ritchie 15 days ago
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Appliances and Gadgets
By Maria Ritchie 20 days ago
BlueStar has sold restaurant-quality ranges to homeowners for over 20 years, but their hefty price tags leave some owners questioning their value.
By Maria Ritchie 20 days ago
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Design & Decor
By Maria Ritchie 21 days ago
Depending on your needs, there always a kitchen countertop material for you. However, if you're considering laminate, keep these five disadvantages in mind.
By Maria Ritchie 21 days ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 21 days ago
If you're getting a little tired of your usually rich and salty breakfast sandwich, we've got an easy way to make things a lot more interesting.
By Maria Ritchie 21 days ago
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Costco
By Maria Ritchie 26 days ago
Costco is known for its delicious bakery items, and when it comes to the most chocolatey goodies, the brand offers amazing options for its customers.
By Maria Ritchie 26 days ago
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Casual Dining
By Maria Ritchie 27 days ago
Cheesecake Factory and Olive Garden may not sound like they have much in common, but both casual chains serve a plethora of pasta. Why is one better?
By Maria Ritchie 27 days ago
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Non-Alcoholic
By Maria Ritchie 29 days ago
Turn this Mexican drink into a fall-flavored shake that hits all the right spice notes for the season and will rival any pumpkin spiced latte out there.
By Maria Ritchie 29 days ago
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News
By Maria Ritchie 29 days ago
Toaster ovens are convenient to use and versatile. Unsurprisingly, the market is crowded with options, which sport different sizes, designs, and functions.
By Maria Ritchie 29 days ago
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World Cuisines
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Scrambled eggs can get boring when you always make them the same way. Try making them with Colombian flair for an extra kick of flavor.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Costco
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Costco's affordable sheet cake is one of its most popular products. But surprisingly, some of its caveats may have you looking at other stores' options instead.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Appliances and Gadgets
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Can't stand looking at your cluttered counter any longer? You might want to head to Ikea to pick up this nifty little organizer.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Shopping Tips
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Häagen-Dazs comes with a premium price tag, but what are you actually getting in comparison to other brands like Blue Bell? Here's the difference.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Gardening
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Coffee grounds can help your plants thrive, but don't just empty your filter into your garden: Here's how to use grounds as mulch safely and effectively.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Baking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Artificial food dyes aren't the only way to make cakes colorful. For a natural alternative that's just as effective, reach for this bright and earthy juice.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Appliances and Gadgets
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
When shopping around for new appliances, it's best to do your research. We looked into some of the benefits of having an induction stove versus electric.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Cookware
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
For those of us that love searching for treasure in thrift stores, this one charming vintage Pyrex dish is worth seeking out, particularly in sets.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
Next time you're cooking up cabbage, add this bright full-flavored seasoning for a balancing note that complements the earthiness of the vegetable.
By Maria Ritchie 1 month ago
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Cooking Tips
By Maria Ritchie 2 months ago
If fall has become a little too pumpkin themed for your tastes, then make this easy no-churn ice cream for an alternative fall flavored treat.
By Maria Ritchie 2 months ago
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