Meet Laura

I’m Laura, a qualified Chef, Food Teacher and Nutrition Advisor.

My love of cooking has been inspired by culture and travel. I’m trained in Classical French cuisine and enthused by flavours and techniques from around the world.

My experience

I have taught the following courses for 17+ years:

☞ Catering

☞ Food & Nutrition

☞ Food Safety & Hygiene

☞ Environmental Impacts on Food

During that time, I’ve gained a number of qualifications, including a Diploma in Culinary Skills, and have taught a range of ages: from Year 3 to adults.

Thanks to my experience, I have a strong understanding of allergens, intolerances and alternative diets.

Why I started Cook from Scratch

I was initially inspired to launch Cook from Scratch after watching Lorraine Pascale's 'How to be a Better Cook' back in 2015.

Over the last few years I’ve noticed that in today's fast-paced society it is increasingly common for people to dine on a takeaway meal regularly, rather than a cheaper healthy home-cooked dinner. I want to give people the confidence to get into the kitchen regardless of their experience.

My ultimate goal is to make cooking an enjoyment, rather than a chore.

Answering your questions…

  • No, all levels are welcome - from those with limited experience of cooking to those wanting to learn new skills.

  • I travel to homes all across Norfolk.

  • Yes! I’m qualified to teach Year 3 right through to adults.

  • Here’s a few examples of the new skills you can learn during our sessions:

    • Improve your intricate knife skills: chicken jointing, fish filleting, spatchcocking

    • Making pasta from scratch: your very own fresh ravioli or tortellini

    • Restaurant-style garnishing: caramelised sugar decoration, chocolate work

    • Piping skills: meringue desserts, duchesse potatoes, eclairs/profiteroles

    • Seasonal soups, marmalades or easy jams, classic sauces and celebration desserts.

    • Breadmaking: plaited loaves and pastry making: shortcrust, choux

    • Wet and dry marinades

  • Whatever you want to learn - sessions are tailored around you. But, for inspiration, here are some of my client favourites: Traditional Roast, Full English Breakfast, Cornish Pasty, Macaroni Cheese, Cheesecake, Toad in the Hole, Shepherds/Cottage Pie, Afternoon Tea, Bread and Butter Pudding, Hot Cross Buns, Scones, Scottish Shortbread, Victoria Sponge, Strawberry Ice Cream, Homemade Pizza, Quiche Lorraine, Healthy Chicken Nuggets, Chicken Korma Meatballs/Koftas in Ragu, Carbonara, Mexican Fajitas.