Jasmine Hemsley: A Journey Through Eastern Wisdom, Western Wellbeing, and Delicious Food

Welcome to a captivating culinary exploration on Desert Island Dishes! In this episode, we have the immense pleasure of hosting Jasmine Hemsley, a renowned wellbeing author, chef, and television presenter. Jasmine is widely recognized as one half of the phenomenally successful Hemsley + Hemsley brand, a venture she co-founded and built with her sister. Their pioneering work in healthy eating has garnered a vast and devoted following, transforming the way many approach food and wellness.

The Hemsley sisters have cultivated a vibrant community around their popular blog, introduced a diverse range of wholesome products, penned two bestselling cookbooks that have graced kitchens worldwide, established a thriving café within the prestigious Selfridges department store, and even captivated audiences with their very own show on Channel 4. Their influence on the healthy eating landscape is undeniable, advocating for whole, nourishing foods long before it became a mainstream trend.

Embracing Eastern Wisdom with “East by West”

Just recently, Jasmine embarked on an exciting new chapter, releasing her first solo cookbook, “East by West.” This beautifully crafted book delves deep into the profound wisdom of Eastern traditions, specifically focusing on how they can enhance Western wellbeing. “East by West” is a treasure trove of delicious, health-conscious recipes, all meticulously designed to align with the ancient holistic healing system of Ayurveda. It’s a journey that invites readers to explore a more mindful and balanced approach to eating and living.

For many, including myself, the concept of Ayurveda might be entirely new. However, diving into Jasmine’s book and listening to her insights proved to be an illuminating experience. I uncovered a wealth of valuable knowledge and plenty of food for thought that I believe will resonate deeply with you too. Ayurveda, originating in India thousands of years ago, is often referred to as the “science of life.” It emphasizes balance between the mind, body, and spirit, believing that true health comes from understanding one’s unique constitution (or ‘dosha’) and adapting diet and lifestyle accordingly. Jasmine masterfully distills these complex principles into practical, accessible, and utterly delicious recipes.

A Culinary Journey: From Comforting Classics to Heritage Flavors

Be warned, this episode is packed with descriptions of truly mouth-watering dishes, so perhaps it’s best avoided on an empty stomach – although, when is listening to a food podcast on an empty stomach ever a good idea? Today’s discussion takes us on a delightful culinary tour, showcasing the incredible power of food to nourish, comfort, and connect us to our heritage.

The Soul-Soothing Power of Chicken Soup

I was particularly enchanted by the description of Jasmine’s “chicken soup for the soul.” Chicken soup holds a special place in the hearts and healing traditions of countless cultures around the globe. It truly seems to be the universal remedy for almost anything – whether you’re battling a cold, seeking a warm embrace, or simply yearning for a bowl of comforting sustenance. The beauty lies in how each country, each family, has its unique rendition. I adored hearing about the incredible food inspired by Jasmine’s vibrant Filipino heritage, particularly their version of chicken soup, known as Tinola.

Tinola is a fragrant and flavorful chicken soup enriched with generous amounts of ginger, which sounds absolutely divine. Beyond its warming properties, ginger adds a distinctive zest and an array of health benefits, perfectly aligning with the wellness themes of Jasmine’s work. This dish is not just food; it’s a testament to the power of ancestral recipes to provide comfort, evoke memories, and carry forward culinary traditions across generations.

Adobo: A Versatile Filipino Delight

Another dish that immediately captured my imagination was “Adobo.” Jasmine described it as succulent chicken cooked in a masterful blend of lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and savory soy sauce. This exquisite sauce undeniably sounds like something every home cook should master. Its incredible versatility means it could elevate a myriad of dishes, making it an indispensable secret weapon in the kitchen. Imagine it not just with chicken, but perhaps drizzled over roasted vegetables, used as a marinade for fish, or as a flavorful base for a stir-fry. It’s a sauce you’d want to have readily available, providing a burst of bright, umami-rich flavor to almost anything, though perhaps not literally “up your sleeve,” as that would indeed be quite silly!

Food as Emotion: The Best Dish Ever

The answer to the question “What’s the best dish you’ve ever eaten?” beautifully encapsulates why I cherish creating this podcast and asking such questions. Of course, Jasmine, being a world-renowned chef and food enthusiast, has tasted far more exquisitely prepared dishes than simple “egg on toast.” But in that specific moment, when you’re ravenously hungry, invigorated by life, perhaps coming in from the biting cold, and someone lovingly prepares something warm and comforting for you, that humble dish transcends its ingredients. It tastes like nectar from the gods themselves.

You might attempt to recreate that exact dish, but it will never quite capture the magic of that specific moment. We all possess these culinary memories – dishes that to anyone else might seem utterly inconsequential, yet for us, they mean infinitely more than the sum of their parts. They are imbued with nostalgia, love, and the circumstances surrounding their consumption. And that, truly, is what makes them just a little bit magical.

Everyday Eats and Unexpected Delights

The idea of Filipino spring rolls nestled in sandwiches absolutely captivated me. I was fortunate enough to have a school friend whose mother hailed from the Philippines, and she made the most incredible spring rolls I have ever tasted. We would devour dozens of them, piping hot from the oil, dipped in sweet chili sauce – an utterly, utterly delicious experience. I genuinely regret my youthful oversight for not conceiving the brilliant idea of tucking these crispy delights into a sandwich; that sounds like a culinary revelation I would wholeheartedly embrace, and quite frequently at that!

Moving from delightful childhood memories to heartwarming current traditions, we discovered that Jasmine’s photographer fiancé is responsible for crafting the best leftover turkey Christmas sandwiches. This revelation, frankly, explains everything about their impending nuptials – no further reason is required! (Although, having met him, I can confirm he is also a lovely person, so that might play a small part too…). It’s these simple, yet profoundly cherished, culinary traditions that often cement our most meaningful relationships.

Jasmine also revealed that her most frequently eaten dish is dahl, a testament to her being a true collector of lentils. I am absolutely taking her expert advice that toasting the lentils before preparing dahl makes an excellent suggestion. I’ve tried this technique before with toasted buckwheat, and it genuinely elevates the flavor profile, adding a nutty depth that transforms the dish. Dahl is a wonderfully simple yet incredibly satisfying meal, and it’s packed full of protein and fiber, making it far more filling than you might initially assume.

While I can’t confirm if my personal touch is strictly Ayurvedic, I adore my dahl served with a generous dollop of cooling yogurt, a spoonful of my mum’s homemade chili and quince jam for a sweet and spicy kick, and a vibrant sprinkling of fresh coriander. It’s a combination that, to me, is simply heavenly – a perfect balance of textures and flavors that elevates this humble dish to a gourmet experience.

Unlocking Wellbeing Secrets: “East by West” Continues to Deliver

I must confess, I didn’t actually uncover the definitive answer to bloating during our conversation. However, the excellent news is that Jasmine assured me the solution lies within the pages of “East by West,” and rest assured, I am now eagerly delving into the book! Jasmine graciously gifted me a copy of her stunning book, and its beautiful design and thoughtful content are truly captivating. As if that weren’t enough, she even treated me to some of the banana bread from the book, served hot from the oven with generous amounts of butter and toasted pecans. I can confirm, without a doubt, it was pretty epic – a perfect illustration of how wholesome ingredients can create truly indulgent and comforting treats.

Jasmine Hemsley’s Desert Island Choices

As is tradition on Desert Island Dishes, we asked Jasmine to share her ideal “Desert Island” selections, offering a glimpse into her personal values and desires:

• Desert Island Dish: A magnificent Filipino feast, lovingly cooked by her mum. This choice speaks volumes about the deep connection Jasmine has to her roots, her family, and the unparalleled comfort and joy found in home-cooked heritage food. It’s not just about the meal itself, but the love and tradition woven into every bite.
• Luxury Items: A practical Swiss Army knife and a luxurious silk pillow. This intriguing combination perfectly captures Jasmine’s balanced nature – a blend of pragmatism and a clear appreciation for self-care and comfort, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The Swiss Army knife represents resourcefulness and survival, while the silk pillow signifies a touch of essential wellbeing and rest.

Listen to the Full Episode and Discover More!

We invite you to immerse yourself fully in Jasmine’s fascinating episode of Desert Island Dishes. Her stories, insights, and passion for food and wellbeing are truly inspiring. Don’t miss out on this delightful conversation:

Join us again next time for more captivating Desert Island Dishes. In the meantime, be sure to explore the delicious recipe inspired by Jasmine Hemsley’s interview – a perfect way to bring a taste of her wisdom into your own kitchen.

Warmly,

Margie x