NPR's Book of the Day ‘Cook Once, Eat Twice’ and ‘Accidentally on Purpose’ are new books from cooking stars
Aug 22, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Kristen Kish, the winner of Top Chef Season 10 and author of 'Accidentally on Purpose', shares her journey of self-discovery after being adopted and her evolution in the culinary world. She opens up about her fast food roots and the empowerment she found striving for authenticity. The conversation also highlights Nadiya Hussain's new cookbook, 'Cook Once, Eat Twice', focusing on budget-friendly meals and creative cooking solutions. Both guests emphasize the cultural significance of food and the importance of minimizing waste in the kitchen.
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Frugality Rooted In Family Upbringing
- Hussain attributes frugality to growing up in an immigrant household where nothing was wasted.
- Her grandmother and parents taught resourcefulness that she now applies in cooking for her family.
Turn Aquafaba Into Vegan Meringues
- When draining canned beans, whip the aquafaba with sugar to make vegan meringues.
- Keep a tub of meringues whenever you drain any can of beans instead of discarding the liquid.
Ramadan Table Tradition
- Hussain said they break Ramadan fast with cold water and a date and always serve samosas.
- She makes samosas by the hundreds because her kids love them and every culture has its own version.
