A culinary extravaganza took place in Barton-Upon-Humber as one of North Lincolnshire’s top chefs celebrated the official opening of his new cooking academy.
Nigel Brown Cookery Academy
Nigel Brown, of Goxhill, is used to sharing a kitchen with celebrities such as Jean-Christophe Novelli and Ainsley Harriott. But now the culinary genius is hosting cookery masterclasses in a specially-designed kitchen at The Ropewalk in Maltkiln Road.
Nigel said: “We want people to feel comfortable when they are cooking and make the learning experience as enjoyable and exciting as possible.”
“It is exactly three years since I launched my first cookery DVD, so it is wonderful to think how far we have come in such a short time.
It proves if you have a vision you can grab it with both hands.”
Having worked in hotels and restaurants across the country, Nigel said the expansion of his academy, which had previously been based at his Goxhill home, had been a wonderful and exciting challenge. He said: “We want people to feel like they are cooking in their own home and we don’t get them using any equipment they wouldn’t use in their own kitchens.”
“It also means we can teach a wide range of abilities.It doesn’t matter if you are a keen cook or a complete beginner that doesn’t know how to chop an onion properly, there’s something here for everyone. All of our recipes are minimum fuss and maximum presentation.
All of our ingredients are sourced locally and can be picked up easily. Our workshops are an ideal way to pick up great tips to impress your family and friends.”
Nigel began running classes from the academy’s new home at the grade two listed building in June. Lisa Barker, academy manager, said: “Nigel is a classically trained chef who has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, so this is a great opportunity for people to learn from a highly distinguished professional.”
“The courses we’ve run so far have been really successful and we’re already booking up well in advance. We’ve made our kitchen as homely as possible because, in our experience, people learn better when they are comfortable and relaxed.”
Keith Vickers, mayor of Barton-Upon-Humber, cut the ribbon at the official opening on Saturday. He said: “I was delighted to be part of the opening. Budding cooks who take advantage of Nigel’s masterclasses will be benefiting from the knowledge of one of the region’s greats chefs. The knowledge and their skills will live with them and most likely transform their cooking.”
Courses such as Fish And Shellfish Extravaganza, Chocolate And Sugarwork as well as kitchen-based lessons such as Know Your Knives will give learners a wide-range of culinary tips.
Classes range from half-days to full days and there are also off- site courses. For more information, visit www.nigelbrownchef.co.uk
Grimsby Telegraph, August 23, 2010 by Amy Pullan
Nigel Brown Chef 