Death of a legendary salesman
My father, Dennis Gowing, became known to generations of Australians as Kevin Dennis — the flamboyant car salesman, restaurateur, businessman, art collector, racehorse owner and larger-than-life character. To me, he was my dad. From Dennis Gowing to Kevin Dennis In 1960, my dad went into partnership with Kevin Heffernan, who operated a second-hand car lot […]
The truth about rice: brown, white, basmati & parboiled explained
Rice gets a bad rap. Carbs. Blood sugar. White versus brown. Basmati versus jasmine. Parboiled — whatever does that mean? Rice has been feeding humans for thousands of years, yet it has somehow become one of the most misunderstood foods on the plate. I first wrote about rice back in 2004. Twenty-two years on, we […]
Chillies: From mild to wild
Lilies & chillies: Beauty, spice and a little bit of heat Few plants capture our attention quite like lilies and chillies. One offers spectacular blooms and intoxicating fragrance, while the other delivers colour, flavour and varying degrees of heat. Although they couldn’t be more different in the kitchen, both are cherished by gardeners for their […]
Why digestive enzymes matter more than you think
Digestive enzymes and stomach acid: Why they matter Healthy digestion is the foundation of good health, yet many people overlook the essential role that digestive enzymes and stomach acid play in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. From proteins and fats to carbohydrates, digestive enzymes work alongside hydrochloric acid (HCl) to support efficient digestion, nourish […]
Why legumes are one of the best plant protein foods as we age
Legumes for healthy ageing deserve a place on every plate. Packed with plant protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, legumes are one of the most nutritious and affordable foods you can eat as you grow older. Whether you enjoy lentils, chickpeas, mung beans or adzuki beans, these versatile pantry staples can help support muscle maintenance, gut […]
Understanding umami: The savoury taste that creates deep satisfaction
Have you ever wondered why certain foods are deeply satisfying and leave you feeling nourished long after a meal? Understanding umami helps explain why. Umami is the deeply savoury taste that gives food richness, complexity and balance. As both a chef and clinical nutritionist, I use a Food as Medicine approach to explore how understanding […]
