Ainsley Harriott Quotes

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Ainsley Harriott

Profession : Chef

Birth : February 28, 1957

I've lost both my parents and I don't think you ever get used to it.

Ainsley Harriott

So I've got mates I've known since I was five years old. Their children know my children. There's something really lovely about it. When you're an immigrant - my parents were immigrants, their brothers and sisters lived all over the world, Florida, Jamaica, some in Europe - it's a grounding thing. That community is critical.

Ainsley Harriott

My dad Chester was a pianist and later a well-known television entertainer so football was never really something that was on his radar. However when I was a young boy a family friend took me to see an Arsenal game and from that moment on I was totally and utterly hooked.

Ainsley Harriott

I sometimes wish I was 10 years younger.

Ainsley Harriott

When we talk about foodies, we're talking about less than five per cent of the population who eat nicely. For most people it's just fuel: 'I gotta feed the kids.'

Ainsley Harriott

Honey's just not honey. There's so many different varieties, so many different flavours.

Ainsley Harriott

I must admit that I do love to dance, but doing it in front of the nation is a whole different matter!

Ainsley Harriott

When I worked as a chef I had a happy brigade. I didn't run it with a rod of iron because I didn't need to me. I honestly believe that relaxed happy staff will be reflected in the food.

Ainsley Harriott

I'm so fortunate that I've chosen the right career path. Yes, perhaps I could have been out there with my own restaurant earning a load more dosh, but television has been good to me.

Ainsley Harriott

I used to take vitamins, but I think diet is the most important thing. If you have a good diet, there's no need for that stuff.

Ainsley Harriott

In London, you can visit, in a way, every part of the globe within the span of a few streets. It's truly amazing and, whatever your mood, you're sure to find something to your taste.

Ainsley Harriott

My Mum was the main reason why I became a chef. She influenced all of my family to feel free in the kitchen - it was the centre of our home and I have wonderful memories of helping Mum cook and experiencing the love and patience that went into the food.

Ainsley Harriott

My books are easy to use and real - and guess what, I sometimes use convenience food in my recipes!

Ainsley Harriott

My dad was a great eater but Mum was the cook.

Ainsley Harriott

I want to have a relationship with my kids. I want them to be free with me, to have a good relationship.

Ainsley Harriott

Food is an integral part of Caribbean life - it's diverse just like Caribbean culture, with flavour influences from India, Europe, China, South America and Africa.

Ainsley Harriott

The kitchen is the place you feel relaxed.

Ainsley Harriott

I've propelled myself into the media world and I've been able to get my style of cooking across with my personality.

Ainsley Harriott

I say time and time again - yes, cooking is wonderful to cook for your loved ones and see them eat the food but the most important thing is getting them all sat around the table together.

Ainsley Harriott

I'm a warm person and I like people to feel comfortable - if they're comfortable they're going to relax, cook and feel good.

Ainsley Harriott