Intelligence Squared Yotam Ottolenghi: How I Found My Voice
Aug 24, 2023
Yotam Ottolenghi, a chef and writer renowned for revolutionizing British cuisine, joins Samira Ahmed to share his culinary journey. The vibrant food culture of Jerusalem and memories of his grandmother, a Mossad spy, shape his unique perspective. He discusses the challenges of being a gay parent in diverse cultures and his transition from academia to cooking. Ottolenghi also delves into his influence on food during lockdown, highlighting how cooking became a cherished activity while navigating cultural authenticity and the politics of food.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Grandmother's Secret
- Yotam Ottolenghi's grandmother was a Mossad spy involved in capturing Adolf Eichmann.
- His mother only learned of this years later through a book.
Grandmothers' Food
- Ottolenghi's German grandmother served very traditional German food at precise times.
- His Italian grandmother made delicious, simple Italian dishes that shaped his food memories.
The Pork Secret
- Ottolenghi's family ate non-kosher, including pork, which was unusual in Jerusalem.
- His mother would buy pork under the counter and he had to tell friends it was turkey.
