For Starters

It's always a great day when you get to interview one of your culinary heroes! On this episode of For Starters, I sit down with Chef and Restaurateur, Martin Morales. His incredible career encompasses both the culinary, as well as the music world, with a true passion for his Peruvian heritage and the food he grew up with. In his work, he is continually inspired by the art, culture and people of Peru. I also had the opportunity to talk about his latest cookbook, Andina, and to learn more about the food and tradition of the Andes. I hope you enjoy!

It was a great thrill to interview chef and writer, Chantelle Nicholson, at her outstanding London restaurant, Tredwells. Chantelle is renowned throughout the food world for her fresh, seasonal cooking, as well as her long-time, working partnership with chef, Marcus Wareing. In recent months, Chantelle launched her first solo cookbook, Planted, which delves into all things plant-based. It's both an inspiring and also incredibly accessible read, with a real focus on great ingredients and bold flavours. Just try the Kimchi Pancakes - trust me! Before the busy, lunchtime service I stopped by Tredwells to find out more about Chantelle's love of food and her remarkable career…

For a food writer and sweet tooth like myself it was a treat to get to speak to baker and cake designer, Lily Jones. Lily has been at the forefront of the new wave of artisan bakers with her renowned bakery, just off the Columbia Road. If you've already visited, you'll know the much-loved sausage rolls and brownies are worth the trip in itself. Lily's career also includes two cookbooks, as well as curating the recipe book, Bake for Syria, shortly to be released on June, 20th. It was a delightful afternoon at the bakery, getting to chat to the lady herself and indulging in what was, quite possibly, the best chocolate cake I had ever eaten...