Simon Gault’s top Christmas kitchen tips

1. Own a sharp knife. Keeping them sharp is safer – you won’t press too hard, which reduces the likelihood you’ll cut yourself.

2. Have some emergency food handy. Pre-roasted veggies, such as capsicums and eggplants, are a godsend over the holidays. Use them as a garnish with cheese and biscuits when you find yourself with a spare relative and an empty fridge.

3. Use what’s there. New Zealand is alive with fresh produce, so use the holidays to go and find some. Whether it’s fish from the sea, tuatua from under the sand at low tide or fresh dill from the countryside, the very best ingredients are at our fingertips. And you’ll work up a good appetite while you’re hunting
for them, too!

4. Make sure you give the turkey time to defrost. Prepare as much as you can before the day so you aren’t stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is relaxing and enjoying themselves.

If you have a burning cooking question for Simon, or want to share a hot tip of your own, email simongault@nzww.co.nz To buy Simon’s favourite products online, visit souschef.co.nz