Jamie’s One-pan Wonders
Jamie Oliver on his inventive new one-dish cooking series, designed to cut down on washing-up…
Monday, 8.30pm, C4 Cookery
Jamie Oliver teaches us how to make his favourite one-pot dishes. From speedy meals that can be made in 15 minutes or less to big-batch cooking, family favourites and recipes that can be left alone to cook slowly, each one has just a few ingredients and, best still, there’s minimal washing-up!
Q What’s the premise behind One-pan Wonders?
A It’s my ultimate homage to making life simpler – everything’s cooked in just one pan or tray, so it’s perfect for those days when you need to get good food on the table fast. Think minimal ingredients but big flavour and less washing-up! Who doesn’t love that?
Q Where did the idea come from?
A I came up with the idea in 2021 when the UK was in lockdown. Food can bring so much joy, but cooking can sometimes feel like a chore. I wanted to find a way to make it easy and convenient, so if you’re busy or not feeling motivated, you’re armed with simple options. I hope it makes life easier and more delicious.
Q In the show, you make all kinds of dishes, including a mushroom carbonara, a filo fish pie and a roast lamb. What are your favourites?
A I’m most proud of the frying-pan pasta recipes. Each recipe serves one, so they’re perfect for all sorts of scenarios – working from home, a simple supper, or, if you’ve got a chaotic household like mine, banging out portions to fit around after-school clubs and the whims of teenagers! My chicken-and-puff pie went down a treat with my lot, too.
Q Was it difficult to come up with one-dish recipes?
A It challenged me to approach things in a different way.
The focus was on reducing the amount of cooking vessels needed. Some dishes we all know and love didn’t make the one-pan cut. But there are many that did, like my upside-down fish pie. I’m really chuffed with the results. I hope everyone can take inspiration. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a lot of equipment to create great food.
Q What kitchen items can you not live without?
A A really good pan! Also a decent sharp knife is essential when it comes to efficiency in the kitchen. I’d also say a speed peeler for adding delicate texture to salads. And a pestle and mortar is key for adding big flavour – everything from bashing up fresh herbs, garlic and nuts for a beautiful pesto to making gorgeous rubs, marinades, and deliciously flavoured salt and spice pastes.