Poppy O’Toole (aka Poppy Cooks) shares her life in food

Poppy O’Toole is a Michelin-trained chef, author of three cookbooks, and a self-professed potato queen. On TikTok and Instagram, Poppy is more commonly known by her handle, @poppy_cooks, having amassed an audience of over 4 million and counting for her educational and entertaining videos. Here, she shares her life in food…

What’s your go-to breakfast?

As the potato queen it has to beat a hash brown, topped with a poached egg and mango chutney. Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.

If you’re impressing friends and family at a dinner party, what are you serving up?

I love me a paella, it’s so good to make for a crowd — cheap and filling. And then finishing with Eton mess. Again, so easy and crowd pleasing.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

Is it cheesy to say my nan and my mom? They have just always made delicious food that I wanted to recreate and make my own.

Hangover cure?

Full fat Coke and a coronation chicken sandwich. Oh, and a milkshake.

Sweet or savoury?

Savoury, I think.

Fine dining or pub grub?

Pub grub.

Compliments to the chef — Now’s your chance to sing the praises of a talented chef, beloved restaurant or particularly talented foodie family member.

I have to say my little sister Trixie is an amazing baker, her cookie dough is the dogs!

Secret ingredient — What, in your estimation, makes the perfect dining experience?

Atmosphere! If I go somewhere and the food is good but not outstanding, then the atmosphere can still make the experience 10 out of 10!

The Actually Delicious Slower Cooker Cookbook by Poppy O’Toole (Bloomsbury, €24.99) is on sale now.