Ben Shewry, renowned New Zealand-born chef and owner of Melbourne's Attica, joins the conversation to share insights from his memoir, Uses for Obsession. He dives into the cultural significance of Australian cuisine, innovative cooking techniques, and the storytelling behind his culinary journey. The discussion tackles the complexities of personal narratives in the culinary world and the delicate balance of creativity, professionalism, and inclusivity. With anecdotes reflecting the joy and struggles of artistry, Shewry reveals the emotional depths of cooking and leadership.
Ben Shewry argues that cooking serves as a powerful storytelling medium, connecting cultural heritage with the culinary experience.
Shuri aims to combat the toxic culture in the culinary world by fostering empathy and collaboration, promoting a more inclusive kitchen environment.
Deep dives
The Philosophy of Cooking
Ben Shuri emphasizes a thoughtful, philosophical approach to cooking that transcends mere technique. His view is that cooking is not just about mastering recipes but understanding the deeper cultural and societal implications of food. He believes that the act of preparing and sharing food is a form of storytelling, rooted in oral traditions from his childhood, which help offer a more profound connection to the dishes he creates. This perspective is reflected in his book, 'Uses for Obsession,' which melds memoir and culinary philosophy, offering insights into the complexities of building community through food.
Lessons from Thai Cuisine
Shuri shares a pivotal moment in his culinary journey when he discovered Thai cuisine, which contrasted sharply with his French cooking training. His passion was ignited during a visit to a secondhand bookstore where he found a unique Thai cookbook that changed his approach to cooking. He highlights the dynamic nature of Thai cuisine, which emphasizes personal interpretation over strict adherence to recipes, requiring cooks to embrace creativity. This realization sparked a transformative quest for Shuri, pushing him to relocate and immerse himself in the culture, ultimately reshaping his culinary identity.
Revolutionizing Kitchen Culture
Shuri candidly critiques the toxic culture that often pervades the culinary industry, attributing it to a macho attitude that can be damaging, especially to women. He strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment in his kitchen, recognizing his responsibility as a leader to challenge the status quo. By promoting empathy and collaboration among his team, he demonstrates that success in a culinary environment does not have to align with traditional aggressive practices. This shift represents not only a personal commitment to fostering kindness in the industry but aims to inspire a broader change that acknowledges the contributions of all cooks.
There are few people in this country as obsessed with understanding the cultural and social potential of Australian cuisine as New Zealand-born chef Ben Shewry. And there are even fewer who have managed to combine that passion with the highest echelons of success. On this episode of Read This, Michael sits down with Attica’s head chef to discuss his new memoir, Uses for Obsession. expect.