Active ingredients

I’m Ali, aka ToughCookie: mild-mannered editor by day, martial arts enthusiast by night. Evil Midnight Baker on special occasions and by appointment. I live and work in New York City, where I’m a brown belt and student instructor in Krav Maga, cook meals that use every dish in my too-small kitchen, and attempt to try every variety of macaron the city has to offer. I have a keen interest in health and fitness issues, which doesn’t prevent me from seeing just how many baked goods are improved by filling with ganache (count so far: all of ‘em).

I’ll share new recipes, health ideas, and tips, debunk myths, and offer the unique perspective of someone who voluntarily gets punched, kicked, kneed and elbowed several times a week.