Chef Shaun Kenworthy, celebrated chef and culinary connoisseur, has experienced the magic of Christmas across two vibrant cultures—his childhood in Manchester, UK, and his life in Kolkata, India. In this candid interview, Shaun shares heartwarming memories of festive mornings, his love for Christmas cakes, and why he believes Kolkata rivals, if not surpasses, the UK in its Christmas spirit. From family traditions to cross-cultural celebrations, Shaun takes us on a delightful journey of festive nostalgia and culinary joy.
Poulami: Shaun, could you share with us your memories of childhood Christmases?
Shaun Kenworthy: Christmas for me as a child was a very family-oriented occasion, especially Christmas Day. I grew up in a family that wasn’t particularly religious, but Christmas Day was still magical. The highlight was waking up in the morning, hoping Santa Claus had visited. That’s something I think every child growing up in the UK looks forward to. Then, at lunch, the family would gather, and my grandmother, who was the best cook in the family, would prepare a lovely meal.
Poulami: That sounds wonderful! What about Christmas cakes? Do you have any favorites?
Shaun Kenworthy: Oh, absolutely! I’ve got some favorites in Kolkata, but I’d rather not mention them as I work with so many people here. That said, I enjoy a good Dundee cake now and then, and I really like a nice Christmas pudding. Of course, beyond the famous Kolkata plum cake, these are probably my top picks.
Poulami: Living in Kolkata, is there anything you miss about Christmas back home in the UK?
Shaun Kenworthy: Honestly, nothing at all. We are very fortunate to be in Kolkata, which might be one of the most Christmassy cities in the world for three or four days each year. The way Christmas is celebrated here is very similar to how it’s celebrated in the UK. The festive spirit is all around, so there’s nothing to miss.
Poulami: You have been living in Kolkata for a while now. How would you compare Christmas celebrations here to those in the UK?
Shaun Kenworthy: There is actually not much difference. I grew up in Manchester, and the way Christmas is celebrated in Kolkata reminds me of home. There is that lingering influence from the Raj, and here it’s more of a spirited festival than a purely religious one—similar to how it is evolved in the UK. When I was growing up, religion was not a significant part of Christmas; it was more about the festive activities, and Kolkata mirrors that beautifully.
Poulami: Thank you for sharing your experiences, Shaun! Finally, would you like to share a special Christmas recipe or a memory with our readers?
Shaun Kenworthy: Absolutely, I hope it brings a bit of festive joy to everyone!
Also Read: Ukdiche Modak: A Traditional Maharashtrian Sweet Delight
Quick & Delicious Christmas Pudding Recipe
After using up the last of my boozy-soaked dried fruit, I’m excited to share this simplified recipe for a classic Christmas treat.
Method:
1. Butter and sugar individual bowls.
2. In a large bowl, fold all the ingredients together until well combined. Spoon the mixture into the prepared bowls, filling them two-thirds full.
3. Cover each bowl with cling film and prick a hole or two with a knife.
4. Microwave each pudding on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
5. Remove the puddings from the bowls and serve with your choice of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or hot brandy sauce. Enjoy
