Steve Coogan, known for his roles in Alan Partridge and Dr. Strangelove, joins James and Ed. They discuss his new book 'Big Beacon', Alan Partridge's new project, transitioning food preferences, working class food, bitter beer, and food shout outs.
Steve Coogan prefers simple, honest, and accessible food that focuses on quality ingredients and taste.
Coogan values unique and intriguing humor in comedy, appreciating the unexpected and challenging aspects that make it funny.
Coogan enjoys taking risks in comedy and finding new and interesting ways to make people laugh.
Deep dives
Rhubarb lover's dream
One of my favorite desserts is trifle, and I simply can't resist anything with rhubarb in it. I have a fondness for forced rhubarb, the naturally pink and sweet kind that is grown in dark sheds. I had a memorable dessert at Hipping Hall, which featured rhubarb done in four different ways, including jelly, blitzed rhubarb, sliced rhubarb, and more. Another classic dessert that I enjoy is a good old-fashioned trifle, with layers of cake, jelly, custard, cream, and sprinkles. It's a nostalgic treat that I feel hasn't gotten the reinvention it deserves.
Finding joy in bitter
While I don't drink anymore, if I did, my favorite drink would be room temperature bitter with a lower alcohol percentage. I have always been a fan of bitter and appreciate the taste. It's slightly flat and not too fizzy, making it a perfect beverage for me. I find it unfortunate that white pepper is no longer as commonly available in restaurants as it used to be. I have a preference for white pepper over black pepper, especially when paired with eggs, mashed potato, or macaroni cheese. It adds a unique flavor that I think deserves more recognition.
The appeal of homemade bread and hearty soup
When it comes to bread, I am particularly fond of Irish soda bread. I have nostalgic memories of my mother making it with sour milk, resulting in a warm, flavorful loaf. As for soup, I enjoy a hearty pea soup with noticeable chunks of peas, rather than a blended consistency. I find comfort in simple, homemade meals and appreciate the satisfaction they bring.
Dreaming of Simple and Honest Food
Steve Coogan discusses his love for simple, honest, and accessible food. He prefers dishes that are not pretentious or over-presented, but instead focus on quality ingredients and taste. Coogan appreciates the joys of good peasant food, highlighting the deliciousness of well-made pasta, fresh tomatoes with olive oil, and white bread. He expresses frustration with overly elaborate and perfectionist food, preferring meals that are appetizing, comforting, and full of love.
Exploring Humor and Comedy
Coogan reflects on his approach to comedy, valuing unique and intriguing humor over polished mediocrity. He enjoys comedy that presents something unexpected and challenges the audience's understanding of what is funny. Coogan finds joy in discovering comedy that he can't fully deconstruct, citing comedians like Tim Key as examples. He also shares his love for taking risks in comedy and the satisfaction of finding new and interesting ways to make people laugh.
