While I attended a foodie event last night, my good blogger friend nonchalantly quipped that I was mentioned in Claude Tayag’s new book, Linamnam (Flavorful), which was launched earlier that day.. I thought he was pulling my leg so I kinda rode along with his quip.

Claude Tayag is one of the more renowned chefs and artistic icons in the Philippines. He is higher up there on my personal list because he is my Cabalen, meaning both Claude and I have Capampangan roots (my parents are both from Pampanga, the land of pork fat and delicious food). He shot and penned Linamnam with his wife Mary Ann as an homage to good food all over the Philippine Islands. He even has his own section for Longanisa (cured sausage)In the beginning of the book, he enlists notable culinary resources, and even a portion on food bloggers. Can you see it? Can you see it? Hint: It’s in alphabetical order.This came as a complete shock, and as an early Christmas present. Everyone knows that I blog not for accolades or awards but for my personal satisfaction of releasing some pent-up energy in the form of a literary and visual meal. Being recognized and acknowledged by my peers, especially by a culinary icon such as Claude, makes all the cholesterol, pounds, late nights and dwindling bank account worth it to know that, hello, THE Claude Tayag reads Trip or Treats!

I hope his next batch of printing will update my blogsite to my .com. Har Har!

You can find Linamnam in all National Bookstores.

You can learn more about Claude Tayag here.