By Leigh O’Connor.
No matter how many years have passed, what food trends come and go, or what age and stage she is at – these are the dishes that original MasterChef winner, Julie Goodwin, returns to time and again.
Julie’s new cookbook, ‘Classic’, is a collection of more than 150 recipes – a timeless, go-to collection of dishes, meals and sweet treats for all occasions. All of the recipes have a personal introduction giving an insight into some of her most loved family dishes, those passed down through generations, iconic MasterChef-winning plates and even one she cooked with Kermit the Frog!
"Dishes for celebrating, dishes for comfort, dishes for quick and simple nourishment. ‘Classic’ is a nod to recipes that have meant something to me, the people I love to cook for and the anticipation of cooking for them again,” Julie explains.
"For me, it is a book that acknowledges we can take on new challenges and adventures without letting go of the things that have made us happy. Like pulling on a favourite old jumper before tackling a new bushwalking track, or keeping a well-loved comfy chair when moving to a new house.”
‘Classic’ features recipes to enjoy over long Summer days, family favourites and easy weeknight recipes for even the fussiest of eaters, along with weekend dishes, hearty Winter warmers, mouth-watering desserts, baked goods and condiments.
There are dishes for barbeques, birthdays, street parties, family dinners and cake stalls, to enjoy on your own or share with family and friends.
"This book is about reflection and renewal, looking back and moving forward. Honouring traditions and old favourites, while welcoming new people into our orbit, whether they are new family members, friends or new MasterChef judges,” Julie says.
Here’s a dinner that is fast, tasty, healthy and just right for Summer evenings – barramundi fillet with pineapple salsa. If there is no barramundi available, you can choose whatever is fresh and local from the fish shop. The pineapple salsa is really versatile too, try it with grilled chicken, or fish in a soft taco shell for another quick and delicious dinner.
Twice-baked three cheese soufflé is an impressive entrée that can be made ahead of time, then finished off just before serving, as Julie is a big fan of dinner party dishes that allow the cook to spend most of their time with the guests.
If Julie had to name her most-cooked recipe, this zucchini slice would be it – not just by her – but also by the scores of people who have contacted her about it over the years.
Once you’ve cooked it, you’ll see why. Doable for breakfast, lunch, dinner or as a snack, it’s easily made with gluten-free flour and customisable in so many ways. Change veggies, sub out the bacon, or make it in bulk, it only takes a few minutes and is truly one for the regular cook-up.
This is a cookbook that delivers food to bring the warmth of old memories to whoever is at your table now and in the future!
