Bittersweet delight

SIR – I was interested to read the obituary of the restaurateur Nigel Mackenzie (July 18). I remember visiting his restaurant, the Hungry Monk, and I own a number of his recipe books.

I also love banoffi pie, Mr Mackenzie’s most famous innovation. The main difference between subsequent copies and his original version is that he would add a spoonful of instant coffee to the whipped cream that covers the pie.

You can then enjoy the savoury pastry base, the sweetness of the toffee and banana, and the beautiful contrast of the bitter cream.

Veronica Bliss

Winchester, Hampshire