From the Editor, Leigh O’Connor.
Heat isn’t just about blowing your head off anymore - it’s become a nuanced, complex art form in the hands of Australia’s most inventive Chefs. Forget the one-note burn; today’s culinary heat is all about depth and dimension. Think the numbing, floral kick of Sichuan pepper, the smoky richness of paprika, or the slow, honeyed burn of habanero infusion.
This week, we’re diving into the world of complex heat - how Chefs are wielding chilli like a flavour tool rather than a blunt instrument and why Australia is fast becoming a mecca for artisanal hot sauces and chilli-infused condiments.
Mother’s Day is also just around the corner and we have everything you need to make Mum feel spoilt, indulged and loved from where to go to creating the perfect brunch or lunch at home; perhaps a High Tea experience suits, check out our guide to the best venues for bubbles and bites.
To Yukio Ozeki a restaurant is a treasure trove of meetings – the teamwork that emerges in a busy kitchen and the ability to bring joy and inspiration to others through the dishes he creates.
Born and raised in an old town in Tokyo near the Tsukiji fish market, Yukio would frequently dine out at a wide variety of traditional Japanese restaurants. The fun and flavour charmed him and he became fascinated with cooking.
Working hard as a trainee Chef at Tsukiji sushi restaurant, Yukio honed several cooking skills and techniques including ‘Fugu’ (blowfish) cuisine – think The Simpsons! We chat to Ben about heading the kitchen at Chef-hatted Terasu in Townsville, plus he shares his recipe for spicy tuna rolls.
Chilli today, hot tamale – we served up the top five hottest chillis in the world! Featured in many cuisine and food cultures around the globe, have you ever wondered how a fruit that basically hurts you to eat it, did not go extinct?
For those looking for a luxe intimate Blue Mountains getaway in a cabin, check out these new premium Lakeside Canopy tents for a secluded hideaway nestled in the lush gardens of Parklands Blue Mountains’ estate, positioned alongside the private lake.
Get ready to feel the burn - just in a whole new way.
