Ragna offers international food for the table
By Ashley Shah
Ragna Stamm’ler-Adamson has been cooking meals from her home in Scripps Ranch for residents in the community to order and take home.
“I have always been very passionate about food and cooking for people. I wanted to share my passion with the community,” she said.
Stamm’ler-Adamson started this business in March of this year.
“There were actually a few steps I had to go through before I got to start. I had to take a food management course, and obtain a MEHKO (Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation) license from San Diego County. The course and license just ensure that you have the kitchen set up correctly and more,” Stamm’ler-Adamson said.
She began spreading awareness about her operation through those close to her.
“I didn’t want to advertise heavily because this is just for fun. So, I started with my friends and neighbors – and by word of mouth, this grew quickly, ”Stamm’ler-Adamson said.
Members of the community who would like to pick up a meal place an order and pay for it on the Sunday before the pick up date through her website www.ragnastable.com. Pick up happens in the evening at her home on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“I make soup and bread for Tuesdays. I make an entirely different dish on Thursdays. The dishes are all international foods. Each dinner also comes with a complimentary dessert,” she said. “I have lived in eight different countries, and visited so many more. I wanted to incorporate a piece from every place I have been in my cooking.”
On average, she prepares about 30 meals each time.
“The biggest challenge about this is truly how much time and work I spend on the meals. I am hardest on myself. I want to put as much of myself into this as possible. I want people to feel special when they are eating this meal,” Stamm’ler-Adamson said.
Since starting her business, she has yet to repeat a dish.
“I have tried so many different foods in my life. When I think about what I am going to prepare that week, I just go where my heart takes me. I do try to incorporate a vegetarian meal at least once a week though,” Stamm’ler-Adamson said.
At this time, she does not have any plans to expand her business.
“I am really happy with how things are going right now. I love seeing new people, but also familiar faces at pick up. I love the feedback I have been receiving. It’s such an honor to hear that people feel like they are eating at a restaurant when they eat my food,” she said.
Aside from this business, she manages another company in Canada and spends time with her family.
“With everything else going on, things can get busy and hectic. But, my main thing now is cooking. I love it. It makes me happy to feed people a healthy, organic meal made with love,” Stamm’ler-Adamson said.
