**Maddy DeVita Set to Release Debut Cookbook ‘Hand Me the Fork’**
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Maddy DeVita, a prominent content creator and private chef from the United States, is thrilled to announce her debut cookbook, titled *Hand Me the Fork*, which is set to be released on May 11. The announcement was made exclusively to PEOPLE, showcasing a project that has been two and a half years in the making and reflects DeVita’s passion for cooking and sharing her culinary journey.
At 28 years old, DeVita has amassed a considerable following on social media, with nearly one million admirers drawn to her food and lifestyle content. Her cookbook aims not only to present her personal recipes but also to foster confidence and skill in aspiring cooks. “It’s always been a complete dream of mine to write a cookbook, and this is far sooner in my life than I could have ever anticipated,” she stated, expressing her enthusiasm for this milestone in her culinary career.
*Hand Me the Fork* captures the essence of DeVita’s Italian American upbringing and her family’s cherished tradition of Sunday night dinners. Reflecting on her journey, she reveals her desire to encapsulate the importance of shared meals and the joy of cooking. “I wanted to bring to life something that represented how food has shown up in my life… thinking about the meal, shopping for it, making it, and enjoying it together,” DeVita explained.
The culinary path for DeVita gained momentum after she left her public health job in 2022 to attend the Institute of Culinary Education, a decision that marked a turning point in her career. Her social media presence blossomed as she documented her experiences, leading to an increasing interest in her insights and recipes. Her debut cookbook features a collection of 89 recipes, drawing from her journey as a lifelong cooking enthusiast to a professional chef.
“My recipes pull from a lifetime of loving food, combined with experience gained while working in the industry,” she remarked. This multifaceted approach showcases nostalgic recipes inherited from her grandmother, Nonna, alongside fresh inspirations from her work with private clients. DeVita intends for readers to find not just a collection of recipes but a guide that promotes their growth and confidence in the kitchen.
The book is designed to equip readers with essential cooking skills and knowledge. “I have a lot of recipes to set you up in the kitchen for success — staples to keep in the fridge, like vinaigrettes and garlic confit, which can elevate any dish,” she explained. DeVita seeks to demystify the cooking process by helping home cooks understand the ‘why’ behind various ingredients and techniques, fostering an atmosphere of experimentation and confidence.
In addition to the recipes, *Hand Me the Fork* features personal anecdotes and practical tips, covering topics from meal preparation to successful dinner party hosting. A particularly meaningful aspect of the book is its foreword, penned by DeVita’s mentor, Ina Garten. The renowned chef has had a significant impact on DeVita’s career, and the two have collaborated over the past year and a half, with DeVita assisting Garten at her events. “When I asked her if she’d be willing to write the foreword, she generously agreed. It was a pinch-me moment,” said DeVita.
Notably, this cookbook isn’t the only exciting development in DeVita’s life. Earlier this month, she tied the knot with her partner, Jack Keeler, in a celebration that prominently featured exquisite culinary offerings. “We had whole pigs roasting during cocktail hour and tomahawk steak carved family-style—it was so fun,” she recalled. Some of the dishes, including her renowned rye brown butter chocolate chip cookies and chocolate mousse, will be featured in her upcoming cookbook.
With the upcoming release generating buzz, DeVita is eager for readers to engage with *Hand Me the Fork*. “I poured myself into this book, and I’m just excited for people to get their hands on it,” she said passionately. The cookbook, she believes, serves as a comprehensive representation of her culinary identity and commitment to inspiring others to embrace cooking in their everyday lives.
As the release date approaches, Maddy DeVita looks forward to sharing her experiences and recipes, encouraging budding chefs to explore their creativity in the kitchen. With an exciting future ahead, she is determined to make an impact in the culinary world through her delicious recipes and heartfelt journey.