Nadiya’s Simple Spices

Who’s the author? Nadiya Hussain shot to fame during the 2015 series of The Great British Bake Off. Since being crowned the winner, she has become a bestselling author with seven cookbooks, presented accompanying cookery shows on BBC2, co-created a series of children’s books, and written a memoir. Recently awarded an MBE for services to broadcasting and the culinary arts, Nadiya has achieved national treasure status.

What’s it about? Following on from the success of her previous books, in which she explored different cuisines, flavours, and ways of eating, this new offering takes us right back to her roots and the food Nadiya grew up with: simple, flavourful home-cooked dishes. Tying in with her new BBC series, Simple Spices, this book features all the recipes seen on-screen – and plenty more.

Nadiya’s cooking is never complicated and always delicious. Staying true to this philosophy, she shares a collection of tried-and-tested recipes using just eight readily available spices that her mum uses now (and her Nani used before her): cardamom, fennel, cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, chilli, bay leaves, and curry powder. With this book, Nadiya not only provides plenty of inspiration for creative family recipes but also demystifies the notion that cooking with spices involves huge ingredient lists and hours of prep. Featuring beautiful breakfasts, easy lunches, staples, side dishes, sweet stuff and more, you’ll be certain to find new family favourites and plenty of reinvented classics.

Recipes we love: Crispy Leek Biryani, Paneer and Chilli Loaf, Yoghurt Chicken, Whole Salmon Masala, Smoky Aubergine Pizza, and Badam Cheesecake.

Perfect for: Fans of Nadiya’s joyful, no-nonsense approach to food and cooking, as well as anyone with a busy life and family who’s looking to add some spice to their everyday meals.