Nadiya Hussain reveals her comforting culinary approach in new book
Nadiya Hussain, the 2015 Bake Off winner, has launched her new cookbook, Nadiya’s Quick Comforts, where she encourages readers to indulge in the simple joys of food amidst a chaotic world, reports BritPanorama.
In a bid to counter a culture she perceives as overly restrictive, Hussain advocates for embracing **comfort food** that brings joy. Her personal anecdotes highlight moments of self-indulgence, such as enjoying a Terry’s Chocolate Orange Easter egg in bed alongside her husband and some leftover curry.
Meeting in a central London office, Hussain shared her excitement for the new book, sporting a vibrant outfit that reflected her personality. She presented homemade chocolate shards made with a mix of pretzels, cherries, hazelnuts, and crisps, illustrating her belief that **chocolate symbolizes happiness**. The book features a variety of chocolate recipes, including brownies with unique ingredients aimed at maximizing texture.
Despite her ongoing success, Hussain acknowledges her battles with **anxiety and panic attacks** since childhood, a struggle rooted in her experiences with bullying. Her rise to fame on Bake Off was marked by a transformation from a shy participant to a confident chef, famously declaring her determination to not limit herself after winning the competition.
She reflects on the notion of a “journey” during her time on the show, noting the unexpected emotional impact it had on her. Her victory was celebrated as a milestone in **inclusive representation**, with her popularity symbolizing a multicultural Britain. Hussain has also contributed to royal celebrations, including baking for Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday.
With a dedicated fan base, Hussain’s new cookbook combines **international flavours** with practical recipes that are accessible for all. She embraces fusion cuisine, although she has faced criticism from culinary purists regarding her adaptations of traditional recipes.
Born in Luton to Bangladeshi parents, Hussain grew up working in the family restaurant, which served a blend of cultures. Her childhood food memories, particularly from her grandfather’s rice farm in Bangladesh, showcase her deep connection to her heritage. This background influences her cooking philosophy, which emphasizes the emotional resonance of food.
Hussain is candid about her relationship with food, admitting to using it as a comfort during difficult times and acknowledging the risk of **emotional eating**. However, she maintains that her work in food has allowed her to find balance, promoting recipes that feature affordable ingredients for home cooks.
As she navigates her career post-Bake Off, including a recent setback with the BBC not renewing her shows, Hussain insists on taking control of her own projects. Her approach remains pragmatic, as she strives to create dishes that are not only comforting but also easy to prepare with common ingredients, such as tinned potatoes.
Hussain credits the **Ramadan fast** with helping to reset her relationship with food. The reflective nature of breaking fast is an important family ritual, allowing a moment of gratitude that she believes enhances appreciation for food and health.
Understanding the pressures of modern family life, Hussain embraces simplicity and encourages her children to enjoy meals casually, believing the joy of food should transcend formal dining expectations. “Sometimes I even eat biscuits without catching the crumbs in my hand,” she jokes, highlighting her down-to-earth personality.
‘Nadiya’s Quick Comforts’ is published by Penguin (£28)
