This week, El-Balad presents insights from comedian and TV personality Bob Mortimer. He appeared as a guest on the foodie podcast “Dish from Waitrose,” hosted by Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett OBE. Mortimer shared personal memories, culinary preferences, and snippets of his life experience, making the episode entertaining for listeners.
Bob Mortimer on Dinner Parties and Culinary Memories
During the podcast, Mortimer discussed unique food experiences, including his fondness for kedgeree, and his ambivalence towards pizza. He recalled a humorous anecdote from his childhood, where an accidental fire led to burning down his house. This playful storytelling highlighted his lighthearted approach to past mishaps.
A Culinary Journey
- Kedgeree: Mortimer reminisced about his mother’s kedgeree, expressing a sense of nostalgia for the dish. He feels that no other kedgeree matches hers.
- Air Fryers: He shared insights on using an air fryer, describing his “turbo twin-two drawer” model and its versatility.
- Dislike of Pizza: He noted that he seldom chooses pizza, preferring dishes like fish and chips or sardines on toast.
- Fish and Chips: Mortimer lamented the declining quality of fish and chips, attributing it to rising costs.
- Favorite Meals: He expressed a nostalgic affection for Birds Eye boil-in-the-bag beef, complemented by powdered potatoes and tinned peas.
Childhood Anecdotes and Family Influence
In a light-hearted tone, Mortimer described the incident of burning his house down at the age of seven. His mother taught him valuable cooking lessons, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients. He fondly recalled how she inspected potatoes for their smell, which indicates taste.
Dining Preferences and Social Life
Mortimer shared that he has only attended one dinner party, voicing discomfort with the formal atmosphere. Instead, he enjoys casual gatherings or dining out occasionally, specifically for special events like anniversaries.
New Book and Writing Style
He mentioned his upcoming book, which presents a mystery involving a missing girlfriend. Mortimer aims for a straightforward writing style that mimics his storytelling on television. He writes from his sofa while multitasking, demonstrating his relaxed approach to writing.
Snacks and Treats
Mortimer disclosed his love for snacking, with favorites including Ringos and cashew nuts. He humorously recounted his dietary restrictions following a heart bypass, including a heartbreaking limitation on cheese consumption.
Listeners can catch the full interview on “Dish from Waitrose,” available across various podcast platforms. Bob Mortimer’s insights into dinner parties, culinary passions, and personal stories make for an engaging episode that resonates with food enthusiasts and fans alike.
