Culinary Infusions

If you have read my “About” you will know that in the early part of my childhood I grew up in Limehouse, London. I was an East End girl and I loved going out at the early hours of the weekends, to the markets with my Dad. Crisp Street Market in the Poplar neighbourhood, Bricklane, Petty Coat Lane Market, and Spitalfields market were our local haunts for food shopping. My father was a conversational man and would always greet anyone male with “Alright John?” and anyone female with “Alright my love?” It usually brought along two reactions, either a warm smile or a worrying look of scepticism from the recipient of the greeting.

Dad became a well known person among the market holders, for his haggling skills and jokes. I could never work out if they were actually happy to see him or if they were dreading the long bartering and bargaining that was to follow. They awarded my Dad with the nickname “Ali” which he revelled in. I became well known as Ali’s daughter and a lot of the locals would introduce me to their cuisine, and ask my opinion on their delicacies. The infusion of food and spices have stayed with me and I love to convey that to people I meet.  A certain delight glistens in my eyes when I witness the momentary happiness of friends tasting something different and delicious. There is nothing quite like sharing quality time with family and loved ones and discovering new tastes together. The best accompaniment to any meal is shared laughter and enjoyment ! It is just totally priceless!