I want to thank everyone who helped me so that I could have the time and opportunity to work on this book. I've taken time away from the people I love in order to be able to accomplish this task. I wouldn't have been successful without the support from my family and friends who have always been there for me; and from my colleagues who have given me endless help and motivation. A very special thank you to my loving wife, Carolina, for her unconditional support on this journey. While I spent many nights working away from my loved ones, she took care of our two beautiful daughters on her own and made it all possible. I would be nowhere without her and I can only hope that in time I can repay her for the time I took away from us.

I would like to give my gratitude to Rakesh Raul (the author of this book), and Anila Vincent (Lead Technical Editor) for giving me the opportunity to work on this cookbook project.

Big thanks to my grandfather who gave me strong roots and good moral values to live a positive life filled with love. Much love to my mom and dad who I wish could be here today to see this. Big thanks to my Brother and Tia Magaly for believing in me always and showing me the right path. Thanks again to all my friends and family who have been with us for so many years and to those who have supported me throughout the review of this book. Thanks to my friend, Chuck Luciano, for always giving me moral support; thanks to Jan Verleur, John Byrne, David Diaz, Steve Bloch, Stacy Racca, Sowmya Sridhar, Brett Boullion, Lurleen Cloud, Kim Parker, Craig Sanders, and Elizabeth Peña for teaching me, keeping faith in my abilities, and giving me some of the most important opportunities in the early years of my career.

For every night that I have not been able to kiss you goodnight, this work is dedicated to the two most beautiful and brightest lights in my world, Sofia and Valentina.

Live, Learn, Create, Teach, and Love.