Kitchen Secrets with Celebrity Chef Anthony Worrall Thompson

Be inspired by these culinary tips from Celebrity Chef, Anthony Worrall Thompson.

What’s the best cooking tip you’ve ever received? “Use a gas hob and an electric cooker.”

What basics should we always store in the kitchen cupboard? “Canned Tomatoes, Spices and Herbs, Tinned Beans, Jars of Roast Peppers, Artichokes, Italian Onions and Anchovy-flavoured Olives, a good Olive Oil, Dried Pasta and, of course, one important extra: my AWT Gravy Pastes! They are great as standalone authentic gravy or you can add a teaspoon or two to a casserole, to thicken the sauce.” What basics should we always have in the fridge? “Buffalo Mozzarella, Tomatoes, Little Gem Lettuces, Spring Onions, Salamis, Parma Ham, Butter, Bacon and Yoghurt.” What would be your ideal three-course menu for a casual dinner with friends? “Asparagus with Poached Eggs and Orange Hollandaise, Pot Roast Leg of Lamb with Aioli and Purple Sprouting Broccoli and British and Irish Cheeses served at room temperature.” What would be your ideal three-course menu for a romantic dinner for two? “Don’t want to be jumping up and down too much, as it interferes with the footsies under the table. So I’d go for: Poached Lobster with Asian Flavours, Paillard of Chicken with Melted Mozzarella, Roasted Peppers and Parma Ham, New Potatoes and Green Vegetables and finish with Eton Mess.” What’s the biggest no-no to avoid when cooking? “Interfering mother-in-laws! And not planning your food, so that the dishes are not ready in the correct order!” *Visit Anthony Worall Thompson’s at www.awtonline.co.uk for his latest recipes and information on his own range of food, kitchen and lifestyle products.