Pan Celtic Cuisine

Why I Have No Place I Never Want to Visit

What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?

As a culinary enthusiast and a chef deeply passionate about exploring diverse cultures and cuisines, the idea of never wanting to visit a particular place feels counterintuitive to my adventurous spirit. Every corner of the world offers its own unique treasures, whether in the form of culinary delights, natural wonders, or cultural experiences. With an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, I approach travel as an opportunity to broaden my horizons and immerse myself in new experiences.

The beauty of travel lies in its ability to challenge preconceived notions and expand our understanding of the world. By venturing beyond familiar territory, we open ourselves up to new perspectives, flavors, and traditions that enrich our lives in profound ways. Whether it’s savoring street food in bustling markets, trekking through pristine landscapes, or connecting with locals in remote villages, every journey holds the potential for transformation and growth.

Moreover, the notion of avoiding a particular destination goes against the ethos of inclusivity and acceptance that I hold dear. As a chef, I believe in celebrating diversity and embracing the richness of human experience in all its forms. By embracing cultural exchange and fostering connections with people from all walks of life, we cultivate a spirit of empathy and understanding that transcends geographical boundaries.

Ultimately, my desire to explore the world knows no bounds, and I approach every destination with an open heart and a sense of wonder. Rather than shying away from unfamiliar places, I embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired by the countless wonders our world has to offer. In doing so, I believe we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our planet, enriching our lives and the lives of others in the process.

How My Grandmother Shaped My Relationship with Food

Describe a positive thing a family member has done for you.

Growing up, I was fortunate to have a grandmother whose love for cooking and respect for food left an indelible mark on my life. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and the intoxicating aroma of home-cooked meals. But more than just teaching me recipes, my grandmother imparted invaluable lessons about gratitude, sustainability, and the importance of mindful eating.

One of the most profound teachings my grandmother instilled in me was her reverence for food and the resources it represents. She would often remind me that every ingredient on our plate was a gift from nature, requiring the sun, soil, and rain (Coming from Ireland we had plenty of the rain) to reach fruition. This perspective fostered in me a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings and the ecosystems that sustain us.

In addition to her philosophical teachings, my grandmother was also a practical advocate for reducing food waste. She had a knack for transforming leftovers into delectable creations, teaching me that nothing should go to waste in the kitchen. Whether it was turning stale bread into breadcrumbs or simmering vegetable scraps into flavorful broth, her soups were incredibly delicious, she showed me the art of resourcefulness and creativity in cooking.

Beyond her culinary prowess, my grandmother’s kitchen was a place of nourishment for both body and soul. It was where we gathered as a family to share stories, celebrate milestones, and forge lasting memories. Through her cooking, she expressed her love and care for each of us, ensuring that every meal was prepared with intention and affection.

As I reflect on the lessons my grandmother imparted, I realize that her teachings extend far beyond the kitchen. They are a testament to the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but also our spirits. Her legacy lives on in every dish I prepare, reminding me to approach cooking with gratitude, mindfulness, and a generous spirit. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

View of head chef on the charm of Irish pubs

What is your favorite restaurant?

Irish pubs, with their rustic charm and hearty fare, have long been a cornerstone of culinary culture. Despite initial skepticism, many, like myself, have come to appreciate the unique stamp they leave on the culinary world. Among the myriad of options, there’s one cuisine that stands out for its exceptional quality of food, inviting atmosphere, and impeccable service. That’s an Irish pub.

At the heart of any memorable dining experience lies the quality of the food, and this certainly delivers. With a menu rich in authentic Irish cuisine, each dish is a symphony of flavors that pays homage to tradition while embracing modern culinary techniques. From hearty Irish stews to perfectly grilled fish and chips, every bite is a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Ireland.

Yet, what truly sets this establishment apart is the warm and welcoming atmosphere it exudes. Stepping through its doors feels like entering a cozy sanctuary, where the buzz of conversation mingles with the aroma of comforting dishes. Whether you’re seeking a quiet dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends, Irish pubs offers the perfect backdrop for any occasion, with its charming décor and inviting ambiance.

Equally deserving of praise is the attentive service provided by the staff. From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, every interaction is marked by genuine hospitality and a commitment to ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether offering recommendations from the menu or attending to special requests, the staff goes above and beyond to make every guest feel welcomed and valued.

For those, like myself, who once harbored reservations about Irish pubs, this serves as a delightful revelation. It’s more than just a place to enjoy a meal; it’s a culinary journey that transports diners to the heart of Ireland, where warmth, comfort, and good food reign supreme.

In a world where culinary diversity abounds, this restaurant stands as a shining example of the enduring appeal of Irish pubs. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences can be found in the most unexpected places. So, whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of Irish cuisine or a curious newcomer, be sure to seek out the charm and comfort of Irish pubs – you may just discover a culinary adventure that exceeds all expectations.

Life here and after

What are your thoughts on the concept of living a very long life?

In a world that often glorifies the pursuit of longevity, it’s worth pondering whether the quantity of years eclipses the resonance of one’s existence. The concept of living a very long life is a narrative woven into the fabric of societal aspirations, yet beneath the surface, the true measure of a life may be found not in its length but in the enduring impact it leaves behind.

For some, the essence of life transcends the temporal boundary of the mortal coil. It’s about a legacy—something intangible yet profoundly impactful. The belief that what one imparts to the world, the values, and traditions shared, can become a timeless echo resonating through generations.

In the realm of Celtic traditions and culinary practices, this sentiment finds a poignant reflection. The beauty lies not merely in the number of years lived but in the art of passing on a cultural inheritance that spans centuries. The passing down of Celtic traditions isn’t a mere act of temporal existence; it’s a conscious commitment to the perpetuation of a rich heritage.

Celtic traditions, with their ancient wisdom and enduring practices, embody a profound truth—that a message, a way of life, can surpass the finite nature of an individual’s lifespan. In cooking practices, rituals, and folklore, there exists a living testament to the belief that one doesn’t create traditions; one becomes a vessel, a conduit through which these timeless practices flow.

Consider the act of cooking within Celtic traditions. It’s not merely a skill; it’s a vessel for cultural transmission. Each dish carries within it the stories of generations, the whispers of ancestors, and the flavors that have connected families through time. In passing down these culinary legacies, one becomes part of a narrative that extends far beyond personal mortality.

Perhaps the true measure of a life well-lived lies in the ripple effect it creates. How does one’s message resonate with others? Does it spark a flame of curiosity, ignite a passion, or instill a sense of belonging? The echo of Celtic traditions in the hearts and kitchens of those who embrace them becomes a living testament to the enduring power of shared values.

In the grand symphony of life, the duration of one’s presence is but a fleeting note. What truly matters is the resonance, the echoes that reverberate through the corridors of time. As you reflect on the concept of a very long life, consider the legacy you craft. In passing on the torch of Celtic traditions and cooking practices, you become part of a timeless narrative—a message that dances through the ages, outliving the limitations of individual mortality. For, in the end, it’s not about the years lived; it’s about the lives influenced, the traditions perpetuated, and the flames of cultural wisdom kept aglow.

Influences That Shaped My Love for Cooking

Who are the biggest influences in your life?

In the heart of my childhood, the kitchen was a haven, and the scent of freshly baked scones and apple pie was the melody of my youth. With flour-dusted hands and a mischievous smile, my grandmother became my first culinary mentor. Together, we unraveled the secrets of perfect scones—crisp on the outside, tender within—and the art of crafting apple pie, where the aroma of cinnamon and apples would dance through the house. Those early moments in the kitchen were more than just lessons in baking; they were the foundation of a lifelong love affair with the alchemy of cooking.

As the years unfolded, my culinary education continued in the living room rather than the kitchen. “Ready, Steady, Cook” became a weekly ritual, and the vibrant chaos of the show ignited a passion for cooking within me. Together with my mother, we sat mesmerized by the quick thinking and creativity of the chefs on the screen. From limited ingredients, they conjured up culinary masterpieces, showing me that cooking was not just a chore but a thrilling art form, an expression of ingenuity that could turn humble ingredients into a feast.

In my young adult years, a culinary luminary stepped onto the stage of my culinary consciousness—Jamie Oliver. His cookbooks, brimming with vibrant recipes and an infectious enthusiasm for good food, became my literary companions. Jamie’s approachable style and emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients resonated deeply. His advocacy for healthy, delicious meals ignited a desire to not only cook for pleasure but to nourish and inspire through food. I found myself experimenting with flavors, guided by the encouragement of this culinary maestro who made the kitchen a place of adventure and joy.

As my culinary journey unfolded, I found myself surrounded by a bustling brigade of colleagues, each contributing to the orchestration of kitchen symphonies. Their dedication, resilience, and shared love for the craft became a source of inspiration. In the heat of service and the quiet moments of preparation, I developed an appreciation for the unsung heroes who work diligently, give generously, and transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary experiences. Their camaraderie, expertise, and shared passion elevate the kitchen from a workspace to a community.

In the tapestry of my culinary influences, from the flour-covered kitchen counters of my grandmother to the dynamic stages of televised cooking shows and the pages of Jamie Oliver’s cookbooks, each thread has woven a unique story. As I continue to navigate the world of flavors and techniques, I carry with me the warmth of childhood memories, the thrill of culinary challenges, and a profound appreciation for the culinary community that brings joy and sustenance to our tables. The kitchen, for me, is not just a place of cooking; it’s a living testament to the stories, traditions, and influences that shape the artistry of food.

A Pan Celtic Christmas Feast

Pan Celtic Christmas Culinary Traditions

As the festive season unfolds, embracing the spirit of togetherness, what better way to celebrate than by crafting a Pan Celtic Christmas dinner that intertwines the rich culinary traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man?

This unique feast is a symphony of flavors, a culinary dance that pays homage to the diverse heritage of the Celtic nations.

1. Irish Roast Goose with Whiskey Glaze:

Ingredients:

1 whole goose
Salt and pepper to taste
240 ml Irish whiskey
120 ml honey
60 ml soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 175°C.
Season the goose with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix Irish whiskey, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
Brush the glaze over the goose generously.
Roast in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 74°C.
Baste the goose with the glaze every 30 minutes.

2. Scottish Neeps and Tatties Croquettes:

Ingredients:

480 ml mashed turnips (neeps)
480 ml mashed potatoes (tatties)
Salt and pepper to taste
240 ml breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
Oil for frying

Instructions:

Mix mashed turnips and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
Shape the mixture into croquettes.
Dip each croquette into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.

3. Welsh Leek and Caerphilly Tart:

Ingredients:

1 pre-made pie crust
2 large leeks, sliced
240 ml Caerphilly cheese, crumbled
240 ml heavy cream
3 eggs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 190°C.
Line a pie dish with the pre-made crust.
Sauté leeks until softened.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, Caerphilly cheese, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.

4. Breton Seafood Bouillabaisse:

Ingredients:

450 g mixed seafood (mussels, fish, shrimp)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
240 ml fish stock
120 ml white wine
Saffron threads
Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)

Instructions:

Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
Add diced tomatoes, fish stock, white wine, saffron, and fresh herbs.
Simmer for 15 minutes.
Add mixed seafood and cook until seafood is done.

5. Cornish Pasty Stuffed with Game:

Ingredients:

450 g mixed game meat (venison, rabbit, pheasant), cooked and diced
2 cups potatoes, diced
240 ml rutabaga, diced
1 onion, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry dough

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 190°C.
Mix cooked game meat with diced potatoes, rutabaga, and onions.
Season with salt and pepper.
Roll out the pastry dough and fill with the meat and vegetable mixture.
Fold and seal the pasty, then bake until golden brown.

6. Manx Sticky Toffee Pudding:

Ingredients:

240 ml dates, chopped
240 ml boiling water
1 tsp baking soda
60 g butter
200 g sugar
2 eggs
180 g all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
For the toffee sauce: 120 g butter, 240 ml heavy cream, 200 g brown sugar

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 175°C.
Combine dates and boiling water, then add baking soda.
Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs.
Mix in the date mixture, then add flour and baking powder.
Pour into a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
For the toffee sauce, melt butter, add cream and brown sugar, and simmer until thick.
Pour the toffee sauce over the pudding.

7. Whiskey and Heather Honey Cocktails:

Ingredients:

60 ml Celtic whiskey
30 ml heather honey
15 ml lemon juice
Ice cubes
Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine Celtic whiskey, heather honey, and lemon juice.
Shake well and strain into a glass with ice.

As the fire crackles and loved ones gather around, a Pan Celtic Christmas dinner weaves a tapestry of flavors that transcends borders. It’s more than a meal; it’s a cultural celebration, a culinary symphony that harmonizes the unique traditions of the Celtic nations into a festive feast that lingers in the hearts and palates of all who partake. May your Pan Celtic Christmas be filled with warmth, joy, and the delectable tastes of a shared heritage.

Teen pot washer to professional chef

First day of the rest of my life

As a teenager, I stepped into the professional kitchen for my first day. The clatter of pans, the sizzling sounds, and the orchestrated chaos of cooks moving with purpose created a symphony of culinary energy. I was assigned the humble task of washing pots, but within the rhythmic dance of the kitchen, I sensed an undercurrent of excitement and passion that instantly captivated me.

The air was thick with the aroma of herbs and spices, a fragrant promise of the culinary wonders unfolding around me. Chefs, each a maestro in their own right, moved with precision, their faces reflecting both intensity and joy. It was a tight-knit world where every movement mattered, and every ingredient had a story.

As I scrubbed away at pots and pans, I absorbed the symphony of flavors being crafted around me. The head chef orchestrated the kitchen like a conductor, directing the team with a blend of authority and camaraderie. It was a ballet of culinary mastery, where each participant played a crucial role in bringing the ensemble to life.

Throughout that day, I felt the pulse of the kitchen—a heartbeat of creativity and dedication. The camaraderie among the chefs was infectious, and the passion for crafting exquisite dishes was palpable. The seemingly mundane task of washing pots became a backstage pass to a world of culinary artistry.

By the end of that first day, I knew I wanted to be part of this world. The energy, the buzz, and the excitement were like ingredients in a recipe, blending together to create an unforgettable experience. From that moment on, I wasn’t just washing pots; I was contributing to the heartbeat of a professional kitchen. It was a journey that would take me from the sink to the stove, fueled by the same passion and energy that had enveloped me on that transformative first day.

Stage Fears to Culinary Triumphs

Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?

Embarking on a journey to share the intricate tapestry of Pan-Celtic cuisine through a live cooking demonstration was a plunge into uncharted waters. Nervous anticipation and anxious whispers danced within, creating a tempest of emotions. The stage, with its glaring lights and eager audience, became both the canvas and the arena for an exploration into the heart of my culinary passion.

As the spotlight bathed the stage, I found myself standing at the crossroads of excitement and trepidation. The weight of presenting Pan-Celtic cuisine—a mosaic of flavors, traditions, and heritage—intensified the anxiety. Doubts whispered in the recesses of my mind, asking, “What if the audience doesn’t connect?” or “Can you truly convey the essence of these ancient recipes?”

The first moments on stage were a fearful symphony. Clattering pots, nervous laughter, and a slightly shaky voice attempted to navigate the intricacies of Pan-Celtic culinary artistry. The audience, expectant and curious, added another layer to the anxiety. Yet, amid the nervous symphony, a realization dawned—I was here because this was my passion, my culinary odyssey, and the stage was a mere extension of my kitchen.

In the quiet moments before diving into the cooking demonstration, I engaged in a conversation with myself. A pep talk of sorts, urging me to embrace the authenticity of the moment. “This is your passion,” I whispered. “Be natural, let the love for Pan-Celtic cuisine flow through your actions, and the rest will follow.”

As the first dish began to take shape, the nervous tremors transformed into a steady rhythm. The stage became an extension of my kitchen—a place where the dance of ingredients and the melody of flavors were familiar. The connection with the audience, initially feared, blossomed effortlessly. Questions, once a source of anxiety, became an invitation to share the rich tapestry of Pan-Celtic culinary heritage.

The turning point was realizing that the best self-talk was rooted in authenticity. Embracing the nerves, acknowledging the fears, and then letting the genuine passion for Pan-Celtic cuisine lead the way. This internal dialogue became the catalyst for a memorable cooking demonstration.

As the last dish found its place on the serving table, the stage transformed into a feast of sights, aromas, and shared stories. The event, born from a crucible of nervous energy, unfolded as a celebration of Pan-Celtic cuisine, with the audience savoring not just the flavors but the authenticity that infused each dish.

The curtain descended on the stage, but the memory lingered—a journey from nervous anxiety to a triumphant unveiling of Pan-Celtic culinary artistry. The lesson learned under the spotlight echoed: authenticity conquers nerves, and passion is the compass that guides even the most anxious moments into the realms of triumph. The stage became not just a platform for demonstration but a testament to the resilience of culinary passion.

A Highland Encounter: The Majestic Red Deer of Glen Coe

Do you ever see wild animals?

In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where the mist embraces the ancient mountains and heather blankets the undulating terrain, I embarked on a journey that would lead me to a wild Celtic spectacle—the majestic red deer (Cervus elaphus).

Glen Coe, known for its rugged beauty and dramatic vistas, unfolded before me like a tapestry woven by Celtic legends. As I traversed the moorland, the air crackled with anticipation, and then, amidst the heather, they appeared—an ethereal herd of red deer, their silhouettes commanding the landscape.

The stags, crowned with formidable antlers, stood as guardians of the glen. Their russet coats, blending seamlessly with the Highland hues, seemed to absorb the very essence of the Celtic earth. It was a vision of untamed splendor that resonated with the untold stories of the land.

As I observed in awe, the herd moved with a synchronized elegance. Each step, a dance that echoed through the ages, spoke of a deep connection between these creatures and the Celtic terrain. The stags, with antlers raised high, held a regal poise, a testament to their dominance in the Highland hierarchy.

In the quietude of Glen Coe, the red deer unveiled their behavioral symphony—a composition of survival, dominance, and the unspoken language of the wild. The glint in their eyes, caught in the fleeting sunlight, hinted at a profound understanding of the Celtic landscape they called home.

This encounter with the red deer was not merely a picturesque moment; it served as a poignant reminder of the delicate equilibrium between wildlife and the untamed beauty of the Celtic Highlands. Conservation efforts, imperative for preserving this delicate dance of nature, ensure that future generations can witness the splendor of the red deer roaming freely amidst the ancient glens and mist-laden mountains.

As I left Glen Coe, the echoes of hoofbeats and antler clashes lingered—a testament to a wild Celtic encounter that transcended the boundaries of time. The red deer, with their regal presence, had etched their story into the very fabric of the Highland landscape, an enduring tale of survival, grace, and the unyielding spirit of the untamed.

Lost in Translation and Culinary Adventures:

Baguettes to Buckwheat in Brittany

Ah, the bold move of a first time head chef seeking new horizons, or in my case, new hénnes (that’s “adventures” in Breton, by the way). Picture this: a culinary maestro, armed with a whisk in one hand and a French phrasebook in the other, embarks on a gastronomic escapade in the heart of Brittany, a Celtic land where baguettes share the limelight with buckwheat pancakes.

Upon landing in this sea-swept haven, my dreams of effortlessly conversing in French hit a linguistic brick wall. Suddenly, my eloquent kitchen commands were reduced to expressive gestures that would make any mime proud. As I navigated through Breton markets with the grace of a duck on roller skates, locals exchanged amused glances, wondering if my culinary prowess was inversely proportional to my language skills.

But fear not, dear reader, for my culinary escapades knew no bounds! The first challenge: deciphering the mysteries of Breton cuisine. Forget the stereotypical French baguette; in Brittany, it’s all about the galette, a savory pancake made from that quirky cousin of wheat, buckwheat. So, I traded my baguette ballet for a pancake pirouette, and oh, what a twirl it was!

Navigating the local markets felt like a scene from a slapstick comedy as I tried to decode Breton ingredients. Picture a chef attempting to negotiate with a fishmonger using wild hand gestures and a combination of culinary charades and Pictionary. Spoiler alert: the fish won.

The language barrier extended beyond the kitchen, leading to some unintentional comedic encounters. Ordering in a restaurant became a high-stakes game of chance, where pointing at the menu was my most reliable strategy. One memorable evening, I accidentally asked for a dessert that turned out to be a local delicacy made with seaweed. I embraced the adventure, spoon in hand, and discovered that seaweed can indeed be sweet – who knew?

My quest for linguistic mastery led me to local language classes, where my culinary vocabulary expanded to include Breton phrases that could charm even the grumpiest of sous-chefs. Suddenly, I could discuss the art of crêpe flipping and the poetry of a well-risen soufflé in Breton – a feat that earned me nods of approval from both language tutors and taste buds alike.

In the end, my journey from the bustling kitchens of Paris to the charming hearths of Brittany became a testament to the universal language of food. No need for eloquent phrases when a perfectly seasoned dish can speak volumes. So, whether you’re savoring a galette on the shores of Saint-Malo or indulging in a tête-à-tête with a baguette in a bustling Breton boulangerie, the joy of good food transcends linguistic hurdles.

In the whimsical world of Breton cuisine, where buckwheat reigns supreme and kitchen mishaps turn into culinary triumphs, this head chef found a new language – one where laughter, deliciousness, and a pinch of Breton humor blend into the perfect recipe for a memorable gastronomic adventure. Bon appétit, or as they say in Breton, mat ar c’houlz!