Getting to Know Chef Alex Navarro: Insights and Tips from the Kitchen
Chef Alex Navarro, from Maray in Liverpool, shares his culinary journey, tips, and perspectives on food, cooking, and kitchen life. His passion for food is deeply rooted in his family’s culinary traditions and his personal experiences in the kitchen. Below, we’ve summarized his thoughts and advice for aspiring chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts alike.
Culinary Inspirations and Early Beginnings
Alex’s journey into the world of cooking began in his family’s kitchen. He credits his father and father-in-law as his greatest culinary heroes. His dad, a talented cook, and his Sicilian father-in-law instilled in him a love for food and the joy of cooking. From a young age, Alex was surrounded by the warmth and camaraderie of family kitchens, which shaped his approach to food. He emphasizes the importance of family and fun in cooking, a theme that resonates throughout his career.
When asked about a restaurant worth splurging on, Alex recommends Fallow in London. He praises their innovative approach and top-tier culinary skills. However, he also has a humorous pet peeve: diners who can’t properly hold a knife and fork! It’s a quirk that makes him cringe but also highlights his attention to detail and respect for the craft of dining.
Key Lessons for Aspiring Chefs and Home Cooks
For those aspiring to become chefs, Alex offers simple yet profound advice: “Just keep on wanting it.” He believes that a genuine passion for cooking will drive one to enjoy the journey, even when the going gets tough. He encourages continuous learning, asking questions, and experimenting with new techniques. These values are essential in a field that demands creativity, adaptability, and perseverance.
Alex also identifies a common mistake in professional kitchens: people rising through the ranks too quickly without being prepared for leadership roles. He stresses that running a kitchen isn’t just about cooking skills; it requires strong leadership, fairness, and kindness—qualities that take time to develop. His insights highlight the importance of mentorship and patience in the culinary world.
Cooking Secrets and Tips for Success
Alex shares practical advice for improving cooking skills. He recommends investing time in reading cookbooks, engaging with food communities, and exploring social media for inspiration. His favorite cookbooks include the original River Cottage book, which introduced him to foraging and nose-to-tail cooking, and Ottolenghi & Tamimi’s works, which he greatly admires. These resources not only enhance technique but also foster creativity in the kitchen.
One of Alex’s favorite tips for home cooks is to plan meals strategically to reduce waste. He suggests creating a weekly menu and incorporating frozen vegetables like soybeans, peas, and spinach, which are versatile and long-lasting. His go-to substitute for pricey oils is virgin rapeseed oil, while his secret ingredient? Wonton soup seasoning—a versatile flavor enhancer for countless dishes.
Quick, Delicious, and Affordable Meals
When it comes to quick and affordable meals, Alex swears by spaghetti pomodoro. He shares a simple yet flavorful recipe that relies on just a few ingredients: passata, tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. The dish skips onions but delivers punches of flavor through caramelized garlic and fresh herbs. Alex insists on using good-quality ingredients but keeps the process uncomplicated, proving that great food doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming.
His recipe for spaghetti pomodoro is a testament to the power of simplicity. By reserving pasta water, avoiding the rinse under cold water, and using high-quality tomatoes, Alex ensures a dish that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for busy home cooks looking to create something delicious with minimal effort.
Life in the Restaurant Industry and Final Thoughts
Despite common perceptions of long hours and grueling work, Alex describes his experience in the restaurant industry as flexible and fulfilling. He challenges the notion that restaurant work is all about late nights and stress, emphasizing the opportunities for creativity and personal growth. For Alex, the restaurant world is a place where passion and hard work come together to create meaningful experiences.
One of the most touching moments from Alex’s interview comes when he shares that the people he’s given free meals to are his wife and children—a sweet reminder that cooking is not just a career but an act of love. He also confesses that salt-and-pepper chicken is his most overrated food item and reminisces about his journey, highlighting the importance of staying humble, adaptable, and generous in both home and professional kitchens.
Final Words of Wisdom
Chef Alex Navarro’s story is one of passion, tradition, and innovation. He reminds us that cooking is a journey that requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. From family kitchens to professional culinary spaces, Alex’s insights offer valuable lessons for chefs and home cooks alike. Whether it’s reducing waste, experimenting with new flavors, or finding joy in the process, Alex’s advice is a testament to the transformative power of food.
By embracing these tips, exploring new recipes, and staying true to your love for cooking, you can create delicious, memorable meals that bring people together—one dish at a time.
