By tf-lawyer.com **Interviewer:** Many people seem to be eager to move away from ultra-processed foods. What advice would you give to someone like Rachel from Canada, who wants to adopt a whole foods diet but finds it a bit daunting?
**Yotam Ottolenghi:** That’s a fantastic question! The motivation to change your diet is a big step in the right direction. I always suggest starting small and focusing on one meal at a time. Let’s kick off with breakfast.
Make sure to add oats to your grocery list. You can enhance them by including seeds or nuts—choose whatever you enjoy, whether it’s pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or pecans. Don’t forget the fruit; options like apples, berries, or bananas are perfect. A dollop of plain, full-fat, unsweetened yogurt can really elevate your breakfast, and if you’re looking for a touch of sweetness, just a drizzle of honey will do, but the fruit should provide ample natural sweetness.
Soak the oats overnight in water or milk, and they’ll be ready to enjoy in the morning. Once you discover what you like in this ultra-processed food-free, 100% whole foods breakfast, feel free to customize it—maybe add a hint of tahini to your porridge or a spoonful of nut butter.
Eggs are another amazing whole food option. They’re so versatile; you can prepare them however you like—whether that’s frying them in olive oil or butter with a dash of turmeric, scrambling, or boiling. One of my favorites is shakshuka, where you poach eggs in a simple tomato sauce. It’s easy to make in batches and freeze for easy meals later. Just heat up the sauce, create wells in it, crack in the eggs, swirl the whites a bit, cover the pan, and cook them to your liking. You can also elevate it with crumbled feta, crusty bread, sliced avocado, or greens, finished off with a drizzle of good olive oil or tahini.
As long as you’re chopping and cooking with fresh ingredients, you’re already headed in the right direction. Start building your confidence with breakfast, and then gradually tackle lunch and dinner. And a little tip: rice will definitely be part of your menu!
**Interviewer:** That sounds both delicious and achievable! How has your mission to inspire home cooks changed over the years?
**Yotam Ottolenghi:** I’ve been sharing recipes with readers since 2006, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to support people in their kitchens. This new weekly column is dedicated to answering a variety of cooking questions—whether it’s about techniques, tools, or ingredients. My team and I are here to offer insights and guidance for anyone looking to improve their cooking experience. So please, feel free to ask anything!
