Autumn warmers

Former Masterchef champion JULIE GOODWIN reveals hearty recipes for the cooler days ahead

After securing the prestigious title of Masterchef 2009, Julie Goodwin has carved herself a career in creating wholesome, nourishing meals for the whole family.

The Central Coast-based mother-of-three has released three cookbooks since beating fellow contestant Poh Ling Yeow in the reality TV series, and she now runs private cooking classes for budding home cooks as well as catering for special events.

This week, she chats all things cooking to Woman’s Day, detailing her pantry essentials, most-time effective dishes and savviest cooking secrets.

Who inspired you and your love of cooking?

My family are my biggest inspiration for my love of cooking! My mum always had people over to entertain and loves cooking for a big crowd.

How would you describe your home kitchen?

It’s definitely the hub of the household. There’s always someone in the kitchen – we’re always cooking and eating so it definitely doesn’t look like a kitchen showroom – it gets used constantly!

What would we always find in your fridge?

My fridge staples are butter, garlic and fresh fruit and vegetables! More recently, I was introduced to Freshpaper – paper sheets that help keep my fruit and vegetables fresher for longer – so I also use them in my fridge alongside my fresh produce. I just pop a piece inside my vegie drawer or fruit box and it will keep them fresher longer. (Freshpaper 4 sheet pack, $9.95, freshpaper.com.au)

What are your pantry essentials?

A few of my pantry essentials include a range of cooking oils, vinegars, rice, pasta, canned tomatoes and eggs.

What do you love cooking at home?

Everything! On the weekends, when there’s more time to cook, I love making a roast or a nice slow-cooked meal for the family to enjoy together.

What do you whip up if time is tight?

A curry or a stir-fry.