Grew up in South Africa when there was no TV so really did learn from my parents both of whom are great cooks. They also really like their food and that helps to. ie live to eat rather than the more usually English eat to live.

Then with the basics there, did some at school, much better than wood/metal work and any of that dirty stuff.

Eventually Delia Smith's "One is Fun" helped when starting out on my own but now I prefer Jamie Oliver, Rick Stein and some others.

My favourite is curry and other spicy dishes but not "restaurant" curries so sorry Pat Chapman your volumes are not in my collection.

I like simple recipes or at least those that don't have too much fiddling and don't need elegant presentation. "Stoo" features highly.