If you watched last year’s series of Masterchef, you might have come across Dan Churchill. An amateur chef, Dan had already released his own cookbook, Dude Food Volume 1, prior to jumping in to the world of television.
With the experience of the high-pressure world of reality TV behind him, Dan is visiting Canberra this week to launch his latest cookbook – The Healthy Cook. We were intrigued as to where Dan’s passion for cooking came from, so sat him down with a few questions prior to his appearance at Thr1ve in the Canberra Centre on Thursday between 11.30am and 12.30pm.
Q1. The Healthy Cook is certainly something Thr1ve can get behind. Do many of your recipes fit within the Paleo and Primal philosophy?
A. The Healthy Cook is 100% based on Paleo and every recipe fits with the THR1VE brand philosophy of low carb and no added sugar and salt.
Q2. What do you think is the greatest challenge to people eating healthy food? How is it overcome?
A. The lack of knowledge and education about healthy eating is definitely the greatest challenge. If people understand what to eat and how to simply prepare it then it makes it easier to apply in their daily lives.
Q3. What do you see as the next big trend in healthy food?
A. We are doing it! Eating Paleo is the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. We don’t believe it is a trend, we believe it is a permanent shift in awareness and an easy lifestyle choice.
Q4. This time of year can be rough on the body. What do you like to eat when you need an energy boost?
A. I like to check and see what I’m lacking. If I haven’t had much protein this week than I will make sure I increase my consumption. I generally believe this helps regulate my energy levels.
Q5. Are New Year resolutions a good or a bad thing?
A. New Years resolutions are fantastic. I believe they are great way to draw a line in the sand and make new lifestyle decisions. Just as long as the new goals are realistic, achievable and sustainable.
Q6. You grew up watching Jamie Oliver, who is well known for his focus on healthy cooking. Do you have other food heroes in this vein?
6. Absolutely, Heston Blumenthal’s journey to where he is today. I had the amazing opportunity to meet and cook with him on Masterchef. His drive and passion for cooking are an inspiration to me.
Q7. How does your style and strategy change between cooking for on a television show and compiling a cookbook?
A. My style across TV and my books is consistent as my audience is everyone who wants to learn basic techniques and cook simple healthy food in their own home.
Q8. What is one technique every home cook needs to know?
A. Good knife skills can make your time in the kitchen so much easier. I have practiced annlot over the years and know how beneficial it can be. You don’t have to slice & dice like a chef but every little bit helps.
Q9. “I couldn’t live without my….”
A. My Mum. She is amazingly supportive. No matter how busy my life is she makes sure I’m always on track. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her support.
Q10. What’s one thing you know/have learned about Canberra?
A. Do not underestimate Canberra. It is a great City and has so much going for it. I always enjoy the time I spend in Canberra and I am really looking forward to launching my book at THR1VE Canberra Centre this Thursday.
