Review of Tara Wigley’s Talk to The Clapham Society: March 16, 2026

Tara gave an interesting and entertaining presentation to a well-attended gathering of members and some very welcome non-members.

Tara explained that she began her career in food and cooking following a course at the Ballymayoe Cookery School in Ireland, taking her young twins with her.  She returned to London and was surprised to receive a call from Yotum Ottolenghi who wanted someone to help write recipes at his home.  She had initially regarded this phone call as a family prank but thankfully it turned out to be real and she went on to work with Ottolenghi for 15 years, testing recipes for The Guardian and helping him to produce eight books.  She explained that recipes were tested eight or nine times and then blind-tested by someone in Wales. She has produced two books of her own, “How to Butter Toast” and “How the Cookie Crumbles” – both written in rhyme, she read amusing extracts from both.  Tara currently writes recipes for Waitrose Magazine and added that Ottolenghi’s next book, “Simple Too” would be available soon. 

Tara then put on her apron and proceeded to produce some amazingly vibrant and attractive dishes – adding that when cooking at home she does 4 x the quantity so there is always something in the freezer for the family. She is very keen on a green salsa (coriander, parsley, chilli, cumin seed, dried oregano, thyme or rosemary mixed with vinegar and oil). This is so versatile and can be served with a host of things, including roast chicken or a butter bean salad.  She produced hummus with various toppings (using Belazu Tahini – highly recommended). In a food processor, she whizzed up a very tasty dish of peas, tahini, zatar, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, fresh mint and parsley – then added chopped spring onions and radishes.  All the dishes were completely delicious – served with pitta chips – and were relished by us all!

Reviewed by Gillian White