Mastery of Cooking

On the cusp of embarking on a year-long journey entitled ‘Mastery of Cooking’ under the tutelage of Master Chef Jean Torné, it felt appropriate to prepare this dish for lunch: a Tunisian Chickpea Stew I enjoyed at the Seasonal Kitchen programme run a few weeks ago by Francoise Auvray. As is often the case, this recipe is one which has passed through a few hands. Though it was provided by Francoise, she credits another cook – and I’m sure its origins stretch back much further still. Recipes all have their roots – and its to the people that are willing to take these gifts and pass them on, that we can be grateful. I look forward to a programme which promises much of this – an opportunity to enjoy the sharing of such gifts, primarily from the extraordinary teacher Jean Torné, but also from being part of a group of participants who will be taking part in this course. I feel immensely humble, grateful, and excited at the prospect of the journey that is about to begin – not knowing where it will lead us.