The book is there for inspiration and as a foundation, the fundamentals on which to build.

I think if you can take one or two things from a cookbook, it's successful.

I don't think you could have a 7 with a manual. But I can't see having a BMW sports sedan without a manual.

Anyone can make a good roast chicken.

We go through our careers and things happen to us. Those experiences made me what I am.

The law of diminishing returns is something I really believe in.

I can make dough in a machine faster than I can make it by hand, but I want to make it by hand, because I want to remember the way it feels. It's so important for me to make it by hand - whether it's a pasta dough or a pâte brisée. You become involved in it. You become personal with it. For me it's such a wonderful way to get satisfaction and gratification when I'm cooking.