Q&A with Sachie Nomura

Sachie Nomura is one of New Zealand’s most experienced Asian cuisine chefs. She runs a cooking school in Parnell, Auckland.

Sachie Nomura

© Supplied by Sachie Nomura

Where does your culinary inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from Japan – my aunty was a big foodie. I learnt from her and my mum and had the luxury of being able to forage fresh vegetables, wild mushrooms and ingredients and be able to bring them back to the house to cook. Travelling overseas regularly to touch, taste and smell local food all helped to inspire my creative juices.

What is your all-time favourite meal to eat?

That’s a very hard question to answer! But I love a beautiful tempura with ingredients that I have found myself and cooked at the table.

Sachie Nomura

© Supplied by Sachie Nomura

Who signs up for your cooking classes?

Anyone who (a) loves to eat; (b) loves to socialise and have fun; and (c) wants to learn about how to cook Asian cuisine. My youngest class participant was aged three and the oldest was 95.

What’s the secret to being a good cook?

I think the most essential ingredient is to have curiosity about food. And to be adventurous. When travelling, don’t be afraid to take the first bite and try new things. Also be a good student – ask lots of questions – from your mums and particularly grandmothers; they are often really good cooks.

Sashie’s Kitchen Cooking Classes Suite 1.4, Axis Building, 91 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell, Auckland P: 09 302 7680 • E: admin@sachieskitchen.com FOR MORE INFORMATION: sachieskitchen.com