Imagine my excitement when I discovered that bestselling cookbook author Claudine Boulstridge also calls South Wales home. We caught up, in the middle of a heatwave, to talk about family, food and finding home.

What are you working on at the moment?

I’m busy publicising my cookbook Family, which has been such a joy. I’ve loved meeting readers at events including Cowbridge Food Festival and Griffin Books in Penarth, and the response has been wonderful. Alongside that, I’m creating recipes for my own Substack, testing recipes for Yotam Ottolenghi and working on a few exciting new projects.

What makes Wales home?

Growing up, I lived all over the world, so I never imagined I’d end up in a tiny Welsh hamlet. But the people have made all the difference. Our local community has been so welcoming, and it’s a wonderful place to raise a family.

How did family inspire your book?

Sharing food has always been central to my French upbringing. I wanted recipes that fit real life: quick dinners, simple breakfast, minimal washing up and healthier treats. They’re the meals my own children ask for again and again, and that’s the greatest compliment.

What’s it like working with Yotam Ottolenghi?

He’s been an incredible mentor and friend. We’ve shared similar family experiences over the years, and his support, including writing the endorsement for Family, has meant to much.

Something people may not know?

We speak French at home, so our children are fluent in both French and Welsh. Watching them switch effortlessly between the two is really special.