Gouda cheese, which is imported from Holland and also made in the United States, has a mild, nutlike flavor. It can be made from whole or part-skim cow's milk and is aged from a few weeks to over a year. The cheese comes in large wheels with a yellow wax rind; Baby Gouda, available in most supermarkets, has a red wax coating.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, and the author of 10 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with a gourmet flair. Her 15-Minute Gourmet cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair in Périgueux, France in November, 2000. Her Complete Soy Cookbook was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998.