Dinner with - Jason Gallagher

Published on Friday 31 October 2008 13:28

The South-African-born chef runs the Stockbridge Restaurant, Edinburgh (0131 226 6766, www. thestockbridge.co.uk

What's the best meal you've had?

There have been two: Restaurant Martin Wishart for my birthday – his menu is inspirational, and dining there is always a treat – and Andrew Fairlie's restaurant at Gleneagles with my partner Jane.

What's the worst meal you've had?

A goat's cheese salad with hardly any cheese, followed by a big chunk of beef with a few badly cooked vegetables. Dessert was dry, and we felt unwell for the rest of the evening, all at the hands of a local, self-styled 'celebrity' chef.

What's in your fridge?

Vegetables, yoghurts, cheese and fruit, and free-range organic eggs. And beer and wine, of course.

What's your hangover fix?

A good fry-up with bacon, sausages, eggs and beans topped with lots of HP sauce, and a cup of builder's tea.

What's the most useful utensil in your kitchen?

Your hands are the best utensil, because they allow you to feel what you're doing and they're very versatile.

Do you have a guilty pleasure?

Gummy Bears and Haribo Mix. The kids have a tantrum when they discover their stash has gone.

What's your classic stand-by recipe?

A nice, basic Spanish omelette never goes wrong. It can be jazzed up with olives and meats, and is a great dish to use up those veggies.

Who would you invite to a fantasy dinner party?

Marco Pierre White (the main man when I started cooking), Kevin Keegan (I'm a Newcastle United fan) and Springboks captain Francois Pienaar, who led South Africa to victory in the 1995 Rugby Union World Cup.

What kind of food says 'home' to you?

My partner's roast chicken with roasted tatties. I love the smell of thyme and garlic filling the house.

Have you ever been on a diet?

No, I have a very fast metabolism. Even though I am surrounded by food every day, it can be easy to forget to eat.

What one food always makes you feel better?

Steak, chips and HP sauce – it's simple, and hits the spot every time.

Do you eat airline food?

If you're on a long-haul flight, you don't have much choice.

Do you buy organic?

Free-range is what I look for, as I want to know the animal has been treated with respect and been free to roam.

How tidy is your kitchen?

It's spotless and very well organised.