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BBQ Brilliance and Kitchen Confidence with Tom Kerridge
Primary Times speaks to Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge about summer flavours, seasonal ingredients and simple ways to build skills at home.
A leading name in the British culinary world, Tom Kerridge is celebrated for his bold flavours and a down-to-earth style of cooking. Beyond his award-winning kitchens, he’s passionate about boosting cookery confidence and bringing people together over great food. Tom shares his ideas for stress-free summer meals, seasonal favourites and getting the whole family cooking together.
Do you have a favourite food memory from childhood that still inspires you today?
I have always been a big fan of bolognese sauces. Dishes that are done with mince, that can hold so much flavour. It was something my mum always did once a week, so the idea of being sat around the table having home cooked food is something that is deep rooted in the thought processes of great hospitality. Roasting the mince first helps give a much deeper, meatier flavour and the idea of taking pocket-friendly ingredients and turning them into something special sits in the thinking of all our menus.
Can you share a tip or trick to get kids involved in cooking?
I sometimes ask my son where he would like to go in the world for tea, then we cook a dish from that area. This means he engages in geography, flavour, ingredients, weather and history. There are so many ways to engage with food!
What’s your go-to family meal for busy evenings?
Every now and then we do a fridge omelette – leftovers cooked in a big Spanish-style tortilla omelette. Lots of eggy protein, but also a great way of using stuff up from the fridge.
Which seasonal fruits or veggies make the most fun, colourful meals for the warmer weather?
Fruits are always the best, particularly red berries. If you have the opportunity, you can go and pick your own, so children are completely engaged in the process from start to finish.
What advice would you give parents who feel intimidated in the kitchen and want to build confidence?
Have a go at something simple to start, and bring your skills up that way. Don’t bite off more than you can chew, but also try to find time-friendly dishes, so you do not have to worry about whether it’s going right or wrong.
What healthy summer food can families try at home?
Summer is a really good and easy time to cook healthier food because the warmer weather can absolutely lead to salads and grilled food on the BBQ.
What’s the one cooking skill you think every child could learn?
Slow cooking! The idea of putting something into the oven to cook for a long time that is quite often care-free.
How do you think food and mealtimes shape a child’s relationship with cooking and eating?
It can be hugely influential. That relationship with the dinner table can become cemented early doors. However, I do not think it is the be-all and end-all. I believe as you get older, human interaction and engagement is something everyone wants to learn and be a part of.
Can you share a couple of your favourite family-friendly BBQ recipes or meal ideas?
Beer can chicken is quite an exciting and fun one to do. There are lots of recipes available and they’re all super tasty. A simple sticky marinade for rolling BBQ sausages in after they have been cooked also lifts your BBQ game.
If you could give every parent one tip to improve their family’s cooking experiences this summer, what would it be?
Get outside. Enjoy being there and absolutely relish those moments together!
For more tasty recipes and inspiration, visit tomkerridge.com.