Every so often, we have the privilege of catching up with collaborators, friends, and those who inspire our work at Veark. Recently, we spoke with Kitty Coles, author of cookbook Make More With Less, writer at the Gloss Magazine, and food stylist.

Read on to discover what inspires her and the things that fascinate her these days.

 

Where's home?

A simple question for most people, but for me it's a little more complicated. Home is a sort of triangle between London, Dublin and Mallorca. London is where I work, Dublin is where I spend time writing and cooking, and Mallorca is where my dad grew up and my parents live now.

What did you serve the last time you had guests?

We'd had a little taste of spring here recently so I felt like cooking something lighter after months of braises. I made a big fat tortilla, which is something I do a lot, for a group of friends who were just coming over for drinks. I served it alongside good quality jarred tuna or jamón, silky vinegary roasted peppers, a few pickled chillies, and slices of baguette. Glasses straight from the freezer for beer or vermouth, then affogatos for anyone lingering later. I like simplicity when hosting.

What are you making or working on now?

I'm someone who always has a few things on the go. I write a food column for The Gloss with The Irish Times, as well as a newsletter and recipes for them each month. Alongside that I'm working on my second book and doing food styling for different brands. Freelance life means every week looks different, which I love.

 

What's a tool you can't live without?

I think most cooks would say the same thing, but a small serrated knife is indispensable. Alongside that, a really good peeler and a microplane. Between the three of them you can do almost anything in the kitchen.

What does cooking mean to you?

I grew up in my parents’ small chalkboard-menu restaurant, so cooking has always been at the centre of my life. My childhood was spent visiting fruit and veg markets, sitting on the counter folding napkins, polishing cutlery and watching my parents cook and write menus. The older I get, the more it means to me. Some people inherit their grandmother’s necklace or a painting; I carry with me the ability to cook. I have my parents’ hands and their creativity, and it’s the single best skill I or anyone can have.