What's an average day for you? What do you enjoy to do in your down time?
An average day is busy from daybreak until late at night. I may travel, I may go to the office. I may have 25 meetings. I may have 1 meeting. If you saw my schedule you would cringe.
Martha! My mom took it upon herself to make EVERY SINGLE COOKIE from your 2008 Martha Stewart’s Cookies book. A total of 160 COOKIES! She even made a blog , where she reviews each cookie, like how difficult it was to make, taste, etc. She was inspired by the movie Julie and Julia and wanted to do something similar with your Cookie Book. She absolutely loves you and your recipes, including the ones in your magazine. No questions, but I just wanted to say thank you for inspiring my mom! Now she is trying to do every recipe in your Cupcake Book.
Also, your French Macaron 101 recipe resulted in tears of joy after my mom and I made them, because I never realized that macarons were supposed to taste that delicious.
EDIT: Thank you for my first gold!!!
I hope she hasn't gained as much weight as we gained when we make a book like this. Have fun!
Martha, I am sitting in the hospital with my friend who absolutely adores you. Would you be willing to say something to her. Her name is Sam. Thank you! We love you!
We are all faced with serious challenges during a lifetime. I hope yours is not too serious and that you'll get well soon. Best wishes!
You're in the mood for Moroccan food, what's on the menu?
Bysteeya, pigeon pie, tagine of lamb with prunes, and cous cous, of course.
What is your go-to recipe for a party snack?
I never serve snacks at parties. It's either hors devours or a meal.
I never serve snacks at parties. It's either hors devours or a meal.
Hors devours are prepared foods one would serve with meals or wine. Snacks are something you get out of a bag or a box.
Hello Martha! Thanks for doing an AMA. Was home decor/crafts something that you always wanted to do as a career or was this something you kind of "fell into"?
My business is much, much more than home decor and crafts. Those are just one part of a very large whole.
Have you ever pissed off a friend by giving them unsolicited decorating advice while visiting their home?
I learned many years ago never to criticize, only compliment. Even if their home is horrifyingly awful.
Do you have a suggestion on what to do with old glass soda bottles?
Also what do you think about kale?
I grow all kinds of kale -- from green to red to black. I use it cooked, finely chopped in salads, and in soups. I do not think it is overrated.
but what about the soda bottles?
I never buy soda so I never have bottles
Hi Martha,
What is your favorite Cajun/Creole dish (if you have one)?
Any number of gumbos. Remember: We have access to everything Emeril on my site.
Julia Child was such a major household name for so many years and in ways a pioneer. What would you say you learned most from her?
I've tried every single one of Julia's recipes in her French cookbooks. She was a wonderful teacher, and she inspired all of us to expand our cooking repertoire.
Hey Martha,
I used to be your neighbor on Turkey Hill Rd. in ct when I was a toddler (lived in the yellow house on top of the hill, across the street). I've always wondered if the cookies you handed out on halloween were homemade or store bought – I ask only cause my 4-y/o self was, though appreciative, not very impressed.
Was yours the big yellow Victorian that had lost its top story in a fire? I loved that house. And yes, every single cookie was homemade. I don't think I've ever bought cookies in my life.
That's the house! I loved it too. Thanks again for the cookie, obviously my taste buds were too underdeveloped to know what's what. I hope you're doing well, much love from the Moran fam!
I hope your family is doing well! Best regards.
Is it true you used to be a model..if so why did you give up your modeling career ???
Yes, indeed. I've modeled from the time I was 13, and I don't think I've given it up. I pose for pictures every day!
Good God. I have the hots for Martha Stewart. Might as well kill myself now after this revelation.
man or woman?
What is your favorite book that you have read?
Out of the thousands of books I've read, it would be impossible to choose a favorite.
Do you have any good sex tips?
Always take a bath before and after.
Do it DURING a bath. Kills two birds with one stone.
That's good too, and don't forget to brush your teeth.
Do you have any cool prison tats?
I would not EVER, EVER deface my body with tattoos.
What's it like being friends with Snoop Dogg?
I wish I were closer friends with Snoop Dogg.
Do you have a favorite singer or band?
Pharrell Williams. He's so cute. I've actually seen him in person and adore his good humor.
Did you have a wild side growing up?
Depends on what you consider wild.
My boyfriend and I cook a lot of chicken. What's your go-to chicken recipe?
I like spatchcocked or roasted best.
Hi Martha! I'm a huge fan of all things MSLO, and Weddings has been my bible since I got engaged.
My question is this: Whats the best way for crafters and bloggers to get noticed by your magazine or online staff?
I'm a DIY and lifestyle blogger myself and I always see great ideas and projects from bloggers highlighted in Living and wonder how they got there.
Do you pin? Do you Instagram?
Update: Where's Snoop? I have brownies FOR YOU!
You have to summon him to share your special brownies.
Join us Snoop!
If you say his username, /u/Here_Comes_The_King, it sends a message directly to his inbox!
Martha, hi!
First of all, thank you SO much for doing this and the having such a great sense of humor about my book, "My Boyfriend Barfed In My Handbag … And Other Things You Can't Ask Martha." You are one cool lady, Martha.
I thought it would be fun to ask to try your hand at answering some of the questions people have asked of me! Of course, I know you'll know the answer—but you might decide to leave this line of work to me after seeing the types of questions I get :)
Okay, here goes: 1. How do you clean a steel riveted leather harness used for a strap-on dildo? 2. What's the best way to remove skidmarks (left during sexual relations) from Pratesi sheets? 3. How can you clean semen stains off of a green velour recliner?
These are all no joke for real questions I've gotten (and answered)! I recently did a follow up piece with the women who asked those questions; if you're interested in reading more about them, that post is on The Toast: http://the-toast.net/2014/02/25/ask-a-clean-person-follow-up/
What's a dildo?
Ask Barbara Walters! (It's a toy used for self pleasure. And you are a MASTER at dodging the question!!)
Barbara and I have better things to talk about.
I'm sure you do. And I would LOVE to be a fly on the wall. Thanks again for being such a good sport about a fellow Barnard alumna carrying your homemaking advice tradition on!
Congratulations on the success of your book. When I get my first dildo I'll look up some information.
Hello Martha!!!! I am HUGE and long time fan!!! I have but one issue with you, and it's a biggie in my book. Your croquembouche recipe is flawed!!! The recipe in your original Christmas book, as well as the current version on your website are the same. They say to first "melt" the butter into the water. Reading "melt" one would think to use a fairly low tempurature. If you do that, your puffs won't puff! It's just not thick enough to pipe! It is essential that you BOIL the butter into the water! Would you be willing to research this, and if you find that I am correct would you be willing to update the instructions?
Absolutely
Martha, you are a goddess. I had a dream the other night that you were president. MARTHA 2016
Sounds like a good idea, but I think there will be another strong woman candidate.
I'm a 16 year old guy who knows nothing to do with cooking. What easy thing could I do or learn that would impress the shit out of my mom (who cooks religiously)?
Get one of our Everyday Food cookbooks and cook her a meal. She'll ask you to do it night after night.
Do you like to swear?
no.
What's your ultimate go to party dessert?
There are so many to choose from that I rarely serve the same thing.
No question. I just wanted to share a picture of our Chow Chow with you.
Oh, your Chow Chow looks just like Harry, my first Chow Chow.
Hey, Martha!
I am a member of the Sons of Norway in Fargo, and we are looking to create a signature cocktail for our lodge using aquavit. Any suggestions?
Aquavit and fresh grapefruit juice, lots of ice, a sugar-rimmed glass, and a big slice of orange. Beautiful lodge!
How do I keep the inside of my car from getting dirty so fast? I feel like a trash bag is too tacky.
Edit: I know removing the trash all the time is the easiest solution. I'm just wondering about other solutions for trash storage where I'd have the ability of throwing it all away at a better time, while not looking like a hobo lives in my car.
Too tacky for what?
Martha, could you just say this to me so I can show my husband: Martha Stewart says you're the best cook in the entire world and you are very lucky to have someone make such delicious Ramen for you.
Did you see the Ramen story in the New York Times yesterday? I can't wait to try the top ramen shops.
And yes, you can show your husband this: Martha Stewart says you're the best cook in the entire world and you are very lucky to have someone make such delicious Ramen for you.
Hi Martha! Huge fan right here. You seem really tech savvy these days. What phone are you using, and do you have a favorite app?
I have always tried to stay ahead of the tech curve. I use the new Samsung notebook, I use the iPhone, and low and behold, I still have a new Blackberry. All I need now is one phone number for all of them.
I have always tried to stay ahead of the tech curve. I use the new Samsung notebook, I use the iPhone, and low and behold, I still have a new Blackberry. All I need now is one phone number for all of them.
Oh, by the way, a question of everyone: Do you really believe Ellen took that selfie with her Samsung? Seemed like a lot of people in one little picture from such a short distance!
How many tacos can you eat in one sitting?
I was at a really good Mexican restaurant yesterday, and I ate one whole taco. I was still hungry.
My daughter adores you. Proof: she dressed up as you from your Halloween cover for Halloween! Imgur She wants to know: how does one get an internship at MSL? Thanks!
edit: yes, of course she made the costume herself.
UPDATE: Wow. Thanks for all the support and suggestions, everyone. I will definitely let you all know what happens. Here's the link for those confused by the costume's concept. http://www.marthastewart.com/1034724/create-9-30-2013
Oh how cute! Send in your resume with the picture!
Hi Martha, thank you for doing an AMA.
I'm a new homeowner with my boyfriend, what are 10 home decor items every couple needs in their new/first home?
Don't be in any big rush to furnish your home by quality not quantity. Buy things that will increase in value, not decrease.
How do you feel knowing that people say "I'm no Martha Stewart!" when they're critiqued on their cooking/crafting etc?
I prefer it when they say "I'm just like Martha Stewart." Or "I'm the Des Moines Martha Stewart."
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Love Indian food. Especially Raita, Naan, Dal, and Saag Paneer.
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I thought it was really cute!
Hi Martha, Did you have a prison nickname? If not what nickname would you have chosen for yourself.
I think I did, but I can't remember.
I think I did, but I can't remember.
I don't think about the past.
Hi Martha! Thank you so much for doing this AMA.
I've thought hard about which question I truly would like to ask, and this is it:
Did you enjoy that Taco Bell burrito and bottle of Olde English you brought Conan on Late Night?
You two seem to have a very special working relationship, would love to see more collaborations! Thank you again.
Watch tonight when I do my episode with Seth Meyers and Lil Jon. I bet it will be different.
OK, you are broke and recently acquired a slow cooker. What is you ingredient list? Don't worry about the process, I'll make it up as I go...
Always use a recipe. You'll have much better results.
Martha, is it okay to freeze cottage cheese?
Never tried. Why would you?
Any tips for a moist, but not dense cake? Is it all in the proper flour?
edit: Thanks for the great tips! Will def try out the measuring by weight. As a biologist, I know the importance of following the protocol/recipe precisely so switching from cups etc to metric units won't be difficult transition haha.
No, it's not all in the flour. Baking is an exact science.
How do you feel about the prevalence of truffle oil in modern restaurants?
I think truffle oil is one of the few ingredients that doesn't belong in anyone's kitchen. It is ruinous of most recipes.
What's the craziest thing you have ever seen in the kitchen?
Whose kitchen?
Oh my god you replied!
Uh...yours?
The catamole bowl. Look at my blog two days ago.
Hi Martha! Big fan here! Have you every considered opening your own brand of stores (home, garden, kitchen, decor, etc.--all in one)? Or do you prefer branding through other companies? And, I really miss your old catalog. Beautiful products. You continue to inspire me in so many positive ways!
working on it
Hi Martha! My mother was such a fan of yours, and I as well have a fond admiration.
She passed before she could teach me much about cooking (or even just being a female in general), and so I have taught myself since about sixteen. I love all your shows and all your books, and just want to thank you for sort of taking over teaching me for my mother who so admired you.
That being said, I tried to make your chocolate chip cookie recipe and my cookies turned out really thick and cakey. What might be the reason for this?
Which recipe?
How can I make my towels fluffy again? I use a front loader and new towels I purchased 18 months ago - and they were not cheap - are now hard and uncomfortable to use. :)
You should check your water, your soap, the temperature of the water, and your machine. Something's wrong. Towels should last at least 20 years.
Who is your favorite celebrity or TV personality to work with on a professional level?
I prefer working with the late night comedians. Hard to choose, there's so many.
When are we going to get a Martha Stewart podcast?
Listen to me on Sirius radio.
What's your favorite kind of soup?
Fresh, homemade, vegetable based.
What's your very best life advice?
On what subject?
Who would win in a cooking contest - you or Gordon Ramsay? The contest would be judged by presentation/decor and taste.
Is there one thing you think you could cook better than Gordon Ramsay without a doubt?
I could probably bake better than Gordon Ramsay. And I don't know if I can cook better than he cooks.
Hello! My dad loves to show folks who visit him your picture in his yearbook. Apparently you went to the same high school...Small world, right? Anyway... I bought the Glue Pad Refill Kit and never could quite get it to work the way I needed it to. Maybe I didn't clean it the right way? Maybe I loaded it up the wrong? Can you provide any advice (both for cleaning and usage)?
Thanks!
What's your last name?
Hi Martha! Quick question. Do you have a favorite James Bond film? If so, what is it?
Thanks!
I like the earlier Sean Connery James Bonds the best. Although the first Daniel Craig was pretty good.
Martha, what are your top three rules for hosting?
Hey Martha, how are you today?
Whenever I get the gumption to start on a new craft project or a difficult recipe, I ask myself "What Would Martha Do?"
So, when I saw you were doing an AMA I could not think if a single question - my friend suggested I ask if you'll adopt me.
Sooo... Will you?
(PS I tried to reach out to you way back when you were having problems with you iPad to let you know the proper route to get it fixed - I hope you were able to resolve that!)
I recently had two grandchildren -- I'm pretty busy!
What's your favorite parody of yourself?
There have been many. None of which are very accurate or flattering. But Ana Gasteyer on SNL did a good job.
Favourite Movie?
This year it was The Wolf of Wall Street.
Is it true you change your bed sheets everyday?
Yes. It's a luxury.
Aside from cooking, what's your favourite activity to do of a weekend?
Cooking is not my favorite thing to do on the weekend, since I do it every day of the week. I enjoy my horseback rides, my gardening, my time with Jude and Truman, and socializing with friends.
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Old news.
What's the best part about being a grandmother? I can't imagine how awesome it'd be to have Martha Stewart as my grandma.
The kids are so delightful. Every single minute I spend with them is precious. They are so enthusiastic and friendly.
I know it's a bit of a touchy subject, but what was your favorite prison food? No disrespect, I honestly am curious about this.
There was nothing remarkable about the food at all.
Why do you think Gwenyth Paltrow is a bad homemaker? Is it because she suggests things most people cannot afford?
I have never said Gwenyth is a bad homemaker. In fact, I've never been invited to her home, so how would I know?
Who makes better cookies, you or Snoop? Any special ingredients I should use when baking?
I've never tasted Snoop's cookies, so I don't know. Pure butter, good sugar, good flour.
Favorite football team?Pls don't say Jets
Giants, boo-hoo.
One thing I heard about you fascinated me. Most people who accomplish as much as you have others attend to the small details, but with you, the small details are what you're all about. Your reputation was built on attention to all those details. I can only conclude there must be ten of you. So my question is: How do you find the time to continue attending to all those little details and do you ever just want to hire someone else to do it? And thanks!
I'm lucky enough to have assistants in many areas of my business, great likeminded employees, and remember this is a business where good information, trusted recipes, intelligent how-to are essential for success.
Hi Martha!
You have a completely free day. What do you do to have fun for the day?
Thank you!
Watch the entire 13 hours of a new season of House of Cards.
What's your must-have kitchen utensil/tool?
A very, very good knife.
Is there a culinary tradition you would like to explore and practice more in depth?
Japanese and Chinese cuisine.
What was your moment when you realized that you were creating something bigger than yourself? That "Aha! I truly made it!" moment?
When I published the first issue of Martha Stewart Living.
Hey Martha, it's nice to kind of meet you! I need to know: What are the best apples for baking pie? Nobody can or will tell me, and the internet is all over the place. Looking forward to checking out your new shows!
Tart and crisp, preferably with a thin red skin - like a Gravenstein or a Macoun.
Do you prefer cookies or cookie dough?
Probably the cookies.
What is the best pizza you have ever had?
Just last week at the new Inn at Pound Ridge. Black truffle and fontina cheese on a delicate thin crust.
Hello Martha,
The Halloween issue of your magazine has been an inspiration to me for as long as I can remember. Where do you find continued inspiration for your Halloween parties and incredible costumes year after year? Also, what is it like to be part of your creative team? What's the secret to your brainstorming process?
Research, research, inspiration, inspiration.
You've dressed up in some awesome Halloween costumes for October cover shoots, which one was your favorite?
Thank you and I don't know - so far, I've liked all of my costumes.
What's the most difficult part about being Martha Stewart?
Not having enough time in a day to do it all.
If you haden't gone into decorating, what would you be doing today?
Maybe I'd be a veterinarian or a farmer. Or a CEO of a technology company.
Who was your role model as a kid?
My teachers. All of them were really interesting and good.
Is it true that you paint over the soles of your Louboutins because you don't like the red sole? And what are some of your fashion rules?
It is true. One of my rules is not to be a slave to fashion.
For my 5th grade graduation we had to sing a song about you, it went something along the lines of this "Oh I wish I could be like Martha, it's Martha that we love...". Kind of a strange song to sing for a 5th grade graduation, but that was 2000 so who knows. Anyway I was wondering if you knew about that song?
No, but it sounds excellent.
