I’ve written this book for those I love so I don’t really feel the need to drone on about myself and my experiences because you are all probably well aware of my various (mis)adventures. But I will point out that there are a couple of firm influences on my cooking and the recipes within I LOVE YOU FOOD.
The first would have to be my Mum and by proxy my grandfather, Jack Hart, who I didn’t get the chance to meet. Mum has never cooked anything ordinary in her life and this is largely because she grew up in a household where her father believed the more exotic the better (in the 1950s no less). Grandpa Jack’s enthusiasm rubbed off on her and she continues to provide restaurant quality food to my ever grateful Dad to this day. It’s really no surprise that one of my brothers became a chef and here I am, writing this book. In fact, there’s a whole host of Jack Hart descendants who have been hit with the foodie gene - I’m looking at you Steph, Jacko & JP (the curry master) Little.
Secondly, I spent a number of years living in Florence and indeed, with Italians. I’m no stranger to the fervor that Italians have for keeping things traditional and it can be a little exhausting, if I’m being honest. I’m not sure they’ll be too happy with some of these recipes but che se ne frega! (you might have to google that). I feel I’ve taken the best of what I experienced over there and just made it a bit Aussie.
Lastly - and so cheesily, I apologise - I’ve found my happy place here with my funny little Scottish clan. I’m inspired and so wonderfully supported by Rosco, who knows never to criticise a dish lest there never be another placed in front of him.
I’m sure these influences will become evident as you read through the book - and I hope you read through it! I’m expecting a glass of wine in the afternoon sun, feet up and a couple of little chuckles here and there.
I can’t wait to hear what you think and I can’t believe there will soon be readers and recipe followers of I LOVE YOU FOOD.