How Long Gone 846. - Ben Lippett
Sep 19, 2025
Ben Lippett, a London-based cook and author of "How I Cook," shares insights from his culinary journey and the creation of his hot-honey brand, Dr. Stings. The conversation dives into the unique flavors of old Naples pizza and the impact of Jamie Oliver on UK cooking culture. Lippett discusses his transition from restaurant life, exploring the balance between innovation and culinary classics. He highlights the importance of local UK farmers’ markets and how he used Substack to secure a cookbook deal, alongside his amusing thoughts on Kewpie mayo and beef wellington.
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Book From Substack To Shelf
- Ben wrote a cookbook titled How I Cook and used his Substack and Instagram as a proof of concept to land the book deal.
- He views the book as both a practical guide and an object people might display in their homes.
Cookbooks Are As Much Objects As Guides
- Cookbooks sell because people gift them and they function as attractive objects, not just recipe collections.
- Ben and hosts note that many buyers never cook every recipe but enjoy the book's aesthetic presence.
Kitchen Nightmares: UK Is Funnier
- Ben favors the UK version of Kitchen Nightmares as funnier and more candid than the US edition.
- He notes Ramsey often attacked failing businesses that rarely survived long after his interventions.
