To celebrate the release of Mary Berry’s cookbook, Mary Berry Everyday, we caught up to talk all things cooking. From Mary’s favourite comfort food dish, to her favourite TV cookery shows, we got the low-down straight from Mary’s kitchen.
We’re so excited about the release of your cookbook, Mary Berry Everyday! Can you tell us a bit more about the book?
Everyday cooking is about sharing your love of food with family and friends. With this book I hope that everyone will feel encouraged to create new favourites, making everyday meals into something extra-special.
If you had to choose one recipe to show off what the book is about, what would it be and why?
I would choose the Reflection Cake which is an impressive cake that has a very shiny icing but perfect for a ‘special’ everyday occasion.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get to grips with everyday cooking?
Cook what is in season, cook what you think your family and friends will enjoy and that fits the occasion. Start with simple ingredients and recipes that do not have too many ingredients.
Do you watch food shows on TV? If so, do you have a favourite?
I watch food shows by Jamie Oliver, James Martin and Rick Stein.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest and what would you cook for him/her?
Dame Judy Dench – I think that Dame Judy is a great family person so I would cook something like the Chicken Valencia from Everyday. It can be cooked ahead and reheated and has a lovely sauce which would go well with a creamy mash.
What’s your all-time favourite everyday bake?
Walnut Brittle Coffee Cake.
What’s your comfort food?
Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Here at The Happy Foodie, we’re obsessed with cookbooks. We’d love to know which cookbooks are on your shelf?
Rick Stein’s Fish & Shellfish, Ken Hom’s Complete Chinese Cookbook, Yotam Ottolenghi, Rosemary Hume, and Lucy Young’s AGA books.
Find out more about Mary Berry’s fabulous cookbook, Mary Berry Everyday.
And if you fancy trying out some recipes from the book, check out Mary’s Beef and Ale Stew with Horseradish Spiral Dumplings, Toffee Cupcakes, and Smoked Haddock and Cauliflower Gratin.
From the book
Mary Berry Everyday
120 simple yet delicious recipes for everyday cooking
All the recipes from the BBC TV series
Classic favourites the whole family will enjoy
