TV chef Simon Rimmer fronts Sunday Brunch on Channel 4 alongside Tim Lovejoy.
Here, we find out all about his favourite – and least favourite – dishes….
What would be your death row meal?
Starter: onion bhajis, samosas, fish tikka. Main: old school chicken tikka masala, saag lamb, lamb vindaloo, pilau rice, naan bread, Bombay potatoes. Dessert: ras malai, cheese and biscuits, Montgomery’s cheddar, Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire and some really good chutneys. Start with Champagne for drinks, Kingfisher lager, and finish with a few old-fashioned cocktails… Not that I have thought about that ever.
Is there one dish you’ve yet to master?
I’m not the best breadmaker. I’m competent rather than confident. I’m inconsistent with it, it’s frustrating. I don’t make it very often so when I do, I don’t think I’m experienced enough with it.
Is there a kitchen utensil you couldn’t live without?
One good knife is all that you need. A 9-inch chef’s knife is an absolute essential. And a grater is used all the time. You zest things, you grate chocolate.
What’s your favourite store-cupboard essential?
Rose water. It’s brilliant. Just a drop in tagines or lamb curries. It’s brilliant in desserts, too. If you just put a little bit of rose water on strawberries it makes them taste absolutely incredible. Vinegars are also a good thing for opening your taste buds out in savoury dishes.
What’s your favourite snack?
Cheese and biscuits. I would go cheddar, Jacob’s cream crackers and Branston pickle… I’m in heaven.
What was your favourite childhood dinner?
I used to like roast beef that was boil-in-the-bag with tinned potatoes, frozen carrots and peas. My mum would be horrified because she’s a really great cook and, basically, I had it at my friend’s house. My mum’s lasagne is the best in the world because she uses cottage cheese instead of a white sauce.
What did you eat for dinner last night?
A chicken and kale salad with pomegranates and pecans.
What’s your favourite takeout food to order?
Indian food, always Indian food.
What’s your ultimate hangover cure?
Salt and vinegar crisps, a banana and an Eccles cake. You get sugar, salt and potassium which are good for hangovers.
Is there a food you just can’t stomach?
Tripe…disgusting!
The Sunday Brunch Cookbook by Simon Rimmer and Tim Lovejoy is out now
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